Originally Posted by rkkwan
1. Between DC and Baltimore, it's a tossup. I used to take the 295/BWParkway and the I-895 Harbor Tunnel, as I find it less stressful than I-95. But I-95 is usually faster as traffic moves at around 70+ on "good days" on I-95, but only about 60 maximum on the Parkway.
2. Take I-295 after crossing Delaware Memorial Bridge, instead of jumping onto NJTP immediately. Save some toll. And even more importantly coming back: make sure you switch back to I-295 by Exit 4 or 6, as there's often a long backup on NJTP at the toll just before the bridge.
3. Near NYC, when the NJTP splits into the "cars only" and "cars/trucks" lanes, stay to the right and use the "cars/trucks" ones, as traffic usually flows better there. [Not all the time, but percentage wise my experience is better in the right hand lanes.] Same thing coming back.
Tip #3 is one I support whole heartedly. My wife always thinks I'm crazy to drive in the "Truck/Bus" lanes, but more often than not, I find that these lanes move a lot better than the "Cars Only" lanes. My speculation is that a lot of folks don't want to drive amongst the "big rigs", so the traffic is a little more sparse.
Here's another vote for Independence Air. They're offering some great fares right now (purchase by 8/30, I think, travel must be complete by mid-December). All things considered, I think this is the way to go. If you're driving, make sure you go at "off peak" times, avoiding the rush hour periods in D.C., Baltimore, Wilmington/Philadelphia, and NYC.