Google Maps Holiday Insights 2025: Best Times to Travel and Shop This
The holiday season is officially here, and Google Maps has released new insights to help travelers and shoppers make the most of their time. From identifying the busiest travel hours during Thanksgiving week to revealing which states finish their holiday shopping early, this data offers a complete guide to avoiding crowds and traffic during one of the year’s busiest times.
Travel Trends: When to Hit the Road — and When to Stay Home
Whether you’re driving to a family dinner or dropping someone off at the airport, timing can make all the difference during Thanksgiving week. According to Google Maps data, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the most congested day of the week. Traffic increases by nearly 14% between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with the heaviest jams occurring between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Travelers are advised to start early in the morning or wait until later in the evening to avoid getting stuck in long backups.
If you need to make a quick grocery run on Thanksgiving Day, plan ahead. Roads and stores tend to be most crowded between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., making early morning the best time to grab those last-minute ingredients.
After the festivities, weekend travelers heading home should avoid midday traffic (12 p.m. to 3 p.m.) on Saturday and Sunday, when congestion is at its peak.
Smart Shopping Strategies
The holiday rush isn’t limited to the roads — stores and malls experience their own traffic jams as shoppers race to finish their gift lists. Google’s analysis of mall activity across states (excluding Black Friday) shows clear patterns of peak and off-peak hours. Shoppers looking to avoid crowds should visit early in the morning or late in the evening during November and December.
The data also reveals which states are home to the earliest and latest shoppers. Some regions prefer to complete their gift-buying before Thanksgiving, while others tend to wait until just before Christmas Eve. Many last-minute shoppers frequent local craft, clothing, electronics, and sporting goods stores, with activity at these places spiking between December 20 and 25.
Interestingly, different cities show unique shopping preferences — for example, residents of San Francisco often make last-minute visits to gourmet chocolate shops, while those in Honolulu prefer coffee, desserts, and specialty snacks for their final holiday purchases.
Avoiding the Post Office Rush
Sending cards and gifts can be just as stressful as shopping if you don’t plan ahead. Google Maps data indicates that Mondays at 2 p.m. are the busiest times at post offices and shipping centers, especially on the Monday before Christmas. To avoid long queues, it’s best to go on Tuesdays around 2 p.m., when traffic at these locations is lighter.
For post-holiday returns, patience pays off. The Monday before New Year’s Day is typically the busiest for post offices, so customers are encouraged to wait until early January to make returns and exchanges without facing heavy crowds.
Holiday Activities Across the Nation
Beyond shopping and shipping, Americans are finding creative ways to spend the holidays. In states like Indiana and North Dakota, bowling has become a popular group activity, while New Jersey residents often visit day spas to unwind from the seasonal stress.
For those seeking peace and quiet, national and state parks, zoos, and aquariums are much less crowded in November and December — ideal spots for a serene family outing or a quiet day in nature.
Planning Ahead for a Smooth Holiday Season
With the right preparation and awareness of local trends, holiday travel and errands don’t have to be stressful. Google Maps’ insights make it easier for people to plan smarter — saving time on the road, in stores, and at the post office. A little planning can help turn the busy season into one filled with more joy, connection, and meaningful memories.
Also read: Government Orders Schools to Sing Vande Mataram on November 7
