DES MOINES, Iowa — On one of the busiest travel days of the year, Des Moines travelers are taking the time to slow down and remind themselves what they're thankful for.
AAA predicts that 5.84 million people will travel by air this Thanksgiving. Across the county, some travelers are preparing for big crowds and long lines.
"They say you need to be there early, so we decided to do it," said Barbara and Richard White of Waukee, who arrived two hours early for their flight Wednesday.
The Whites are traveling to Houston this year, where their grandson moved for his first job after college.
"All of the family is gonna be there. We're all going to him," Barbara said.
"We've been blessed so much, that I'm looking to give thanks," Richard added. "Thankful for a beautiful family and thank you for this country that we live in."
Even the youngest travelers are packing some extra gratitude.
"I'm thankful for my family, and I'm thankful for my school. I go to Des Moines Christian and that's really, that's a privilege, I feel like," said Harper Ferrell, who lives in Des Moines.
Valley High School student Henry Troen, traveling to Wyoming with his family, shared similar thanks.
"Well, I'm thankful for the people behind me, and I'm also thankful for all of my friends," he told Local 5.
Des Moines Airport officials said the blue economy parking lot is already full, so travelers will want to arrive early if they're looking for affordable long-term parking.
As of 11 a.m., Wednesday, all flights out of Des Moines are scheduled to take off on time.