<p>If you have a good southwest air/airtran/other connection to Baltimore…it seems nuts but this is a great strategy since there are relatively frequent and cheap flights (SWA) between Baltimore and Pittsburgh. A couple of times we were able to get flights for $49 each way --worked for winter and spring break (odd dates) but THanksgiving was expensive…I have heard of a rather extreme approach of getting a ride to Philly with friends on Tuesday night, spending the night and flying out west very early the next morning. But getting back means doing a redeye on Saturday night. Hard the first year when they are starting out…a LOT of kids stayed at CMU for Thanksgiving and S may end up staying if he is overwhelmed with work this year. It wasn’t very restful and he was stressed trying to get some work done during such a short time span. It depends a bit on how important this holiday is to your family.</p>