SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - One of the busiest holiday travel weeks has just begun, and many are choosing to go by rail or bus to get to their Thanksgiving destination. 22News learned what travelers need to know if they plan to go by rail before and after the holiday, and these travelers arriving at Springfield Union Station did just that the Monday night before Thanksgiving---the calm before the storm of one of the busiest weeks for holiday travel. "You have to try to leave early, try to plan ahead, get the flex tickets if you can," says Matt from New York City. "I got those and it helped us out." Whether it's by bus or rail, Union Station in Springfield is prepared for the nearly 20,000 passengers who will pass through the doors here for the holidays this year. The two busiest travel days are expected to be November 27th----the day before Thanksgiving, and December 1st---the Sunday after. With just a couple of days out until Thanksgiving, we were still able to book a trip for this Wednesday from Springfield Union Station to Penn Station in New York City, but it could cost you more the longer you wait. Based on ticket sales, peak times for arrivals and departures by train are 8 AM as well as 2 and 4 PM. The property manager of Springfield Union Station Nicole Sweeney says unlike Grand Central or South Station, you don't have to be at Union Station hours ahead. "We are pretty small and easy to navigate, so 45 minutes to a half hour is generally plenty, if you already have your ticket, to get here & get comfortable and then catch your ride." Sweeney says travelers can expect more staff at the station over the next couple of days, including guards and police officers, not only for public safety but to help guide travelers as they embark on their holiday destination. Christmas is also just around the corner, and Union Station officials urge people to buy their train tickets as soon as possible. Local News Headlines Holyoke Police chief finalist interview open to public Union Station prepares for busy Thanksgiving travel week Chicopee city councilor responds to death threats, urges civility Springfield honors Native American’s with flag raising event WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.