The turkey day travel rush starts now and whether you are hitting the road or taking to the skies, the threat of a storm could impact Thanksgiving travel plans

LaGuardia Airport already was a little more crowded Monday evening ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Zoie Womble and Madeline Robertson are headed back to Nashville after celebrating a Sweet 16 weekend in the city. They said they specifically planned to visit now for one main reason.

"We came earlier, a week before, to try to beat out the Thanksgiving crowds," said Womble.

Matty K Travel Group owner Matty Kondrup says with the "travel bug" still spreading around, it's important to recognize that many more people will board a plane or hit the road this Thanksgiving.

He says there's also something else to be aware of when traveling this week.

"The other most important thing, especially this year right now, is this big weather system that's coming that's going to hit New York and the tri-state area that's going to affect flights, cancellations, delays," said Kondrup.

Alex Burgoyne from Connecticut decided to beat the crowds and board a plane Monday night to visit family in Texas for Thanksgiving. He says the storm out west is already putting their flight behind schedule.

"It's delayed about an hour, so I mean it gives us more time so that's pretty good," he said. "But, we're going to get there pretty late."

With the possibility of flight cancellations and delays in the forecast, make sure to have important necessities in a carry-on.

"Pack some extra snacks with you. Make sure in your carry-on bag you have your medications, anything in case you do get stuck or delayed somewhere for an extended period of time, a change of clothes," said Kondrup. "If you haven't already purchased travel insurance, we strongly recommend always having travel insurance."

Wherever the destination, make sure to pack one thing.

"Pack your patience, is the hugest thing," said Kondrup.

Travelers who spoke to News 12 say early is the best way to beat the crowds.