It's that time of year when Americans gear up to catch the big fish, and this year is sure to be a big one.
Nearly 500,000 Super Bowl fans are expected to head to Las Vegas to celebrate Super Bowl 58 on February 11th, and many others will attend one of the many viewing parties across the country. I plan to participate. America's most popular sporting event, the Super Bowl, is also the biggest television show of the year. In other words, congestion is unavoidable.
“Las Vegas has historically been a popular destination for the Super Bowl,” INRIX transportation analyst Bob Picheux told USA TODAY. “With the Super Bowl being held in Las Vegas this year, we expect to see even more travel to and from hotels, casinos, restaurants, and more.”
This year's kickoff is scheduled for 3:30pm (local time), so travelers looking to experience the Super Bowl with a viewing party should plan accordingly to avoid sitting in traffic and missing out on the fun. need to stand.
“This year's Super Bowl is expected to draw 450,000 people to Las Vegas, with guaranteed access to both road and foot traffic,” David Woody, country development and travel specialist at SIXT, said in a statement to USA TODAY. told. “Plan ahead, stay calm and stay focused to be a winning quarterback for your team in travel games.”
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Here are five tips for drivers to enjoy the big game.
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1. Plan your route in advance
If you don't have a route in mind yet, start thinking about it now. People heading to the Las Vegas area can expect heavy traffic and congestion on major highways there, especially Interstate 15, according to traffic analysis firm INRIX.
Last year, northbound travel time to Las Vegas increased by nearly 30%. With Vegas hosting the game this year, expect more traffic and longer drives.
Even if you're staying close to home, you may experience traffic jams. “Massive watch parties are held frequently across the country, so keep in mind the areas in your city that are likely to be the busiest and try to avoid them, or be sure to arrive early if you're heading there. Please make sure you arrive at ,” Woody said.
2. Worst Super Bowl travel time
Choose your departure time wisely to avoid getting stuck in traffic. According to INRIX, during last year's Super Bowl Sunday, peak traffic occurred from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. before the game and after 10 p.m. after the game.
Woody predicted the period just before and after the game could be hectic for travelers as well.
The earlier you arrive at your destination, the more time you have to find parking. Sit back and relax.
3. Check under the hood
As with any road trip, even if you aren't necessarily going far, make sure your car is in good condition before you go. Knowing that your car is in good working order can help you prepare to avoid unexpected delays and stoppages. Be sure to check your car's fluid levels and tire pressure. Fill up your gas tank or fully charge your EV. A cane to keep you from falling.
4. Please calm down
Be prepared to experience at least some traffic and delays during your trip. However, keep a positive attitude and focus on safe driving to avoid road rage and aggressive driving. “Just put on some music or turn on the radio station that's broadcasting the game and trust that eventually you'll get there safely,” Woody said. If you're faced with a nuisance driver, take a deep breath and remember the big picture: the game.
5. Take responsibility
While looking forward to the match and worrying about traffic jams, please drive carefully to avoid accidents and traffic violations. “Driving errors and parking fines are more common during popular events like the Super Bowl due to a variety of factors, including increased numbers of vehicles in low-traffic areas, driving in unfamiliar areas, and irresponsible and distracted driving. That's true,” Woody said. Even just foaming and waving your finger out the window can make you drive a little recklessly and potentially result in a fine.
“The more aware you are of the tickets you may face, the better,” he added.
Be sure to plan for a designated driver. With DUI court costs averaging $10,000, it's never worth getting behind the wheel after drinking.
Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. Please contact kwong@usatoday.com..
