AAA predicts 115 million people will be on the move over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday, the second highest year-end holiday travel recorded.
AAA's Don Redman says that’s a two percent increase over last year and most will travel by vehicle.
“You talking nationwide about 103 – 104 million people are going to travel by their cars. When you look at our region, which involves Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas that includes seven million people on the road,” said Redman.
Redman says the national average for a gallon of gas was $3.26 and this year its $3.14 a gallon for regular gasoline. He says travelers can expect cheaper gas prices in the Gulf South.
“We’re talking 13-14 cents a gallon cheaper than we were a year ago. The statewide average right now is about $2.71,” he said.
Redman says AAA is reporting a record even point five million Americans will travel by air for the holidays, so be prepared for packed airports.
“It’s going to be a well-traveled busy time at the airports. Strongly encourage you if you’re flying domestically get at least two hours in advance. Expect long delays in the screening process. Also, expect delays cause we’re talking about winter,” said Redman.
As for train, bus, and cruise travel, he says travel is expected to increase by nearly four percent.
