If you have not yet left for your holiday celebrations, you should at least start packing your bags. An estimated 122.4 million people in the U.S. are expected to travel during the holiday season, according to AAA. The travel period runs from Dec. 20 through Jan. 1.
If the projection holds, it would surpass last year’s record of 119.7 million travelers by more than 2%. Most travelers — about 89% — will hit the road, and many will be greeted by low gas prices that have dipped below $2.50 a gallon in some parts of Door and Kewaunee counties. The national average has fallen below $3 a gallon, down from $3.07 at this time last year.
Approximately 8 million people are expected to travel by air, an increase of 2.3% from last year, despite airfare being about 7% more expensive.
The actual holiday dates of Dec. 24, 25, and 31, as well as Jan. 1, expected to be the best days to travel. Otherwise, AAA reccommends hitting the road before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m. for optimal, hassle-free travel. Austin Straubel International Airport Director Marty Piette says knowing your flight schedule ahead of time — and understanding rules regarding gifts and other items — can save travelers a lot of hassle.
Other modes of transportation are expected to increase by 9%, with AAA crediting post-pandemic interest in cruises as a major driver of that growth.
