Americans are expected to hit the road in record numbers during the year-end holiday travel period. The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts that more Americans will travel during the year-end holiday period than ever before, breaking the previous record set in 2019.
AAA anticipates 119.3 million people will travel 50 miles or more from Saturday, Dec. 21, through Wednesday, Jan. 1. This year’s projected number of travelers is 64,000 more than the 2019 record. AAA also predicts 3 million more travelers this holiday season compared to last year.
Several factors contribute to the expected increase in holiday travel, including lower gas prices and the timing of Christmas Day.
“This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “This year, with Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we’re anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekend before and the weekend after the holiday.”
AAA projects that nearly 90% of holiday travelers will drive to their destinations, with 107 million expected to hit the road. Many travelers prefer the flexibility and lower cost of driving, especially families with young children.
This holiday season, gas prices are lower than last year’s national average of $3.12 in late 2023. Colder weather, remote work, and online shopping typically reduce demand for gas in December.
Increased traffic enforcement
In an effort to reduce the number of crashes and fatalities on Georgia roadways, state troopers and officers with the state’s Motor Carrier Compliance Division will be on high visibility patrols on interstates and state roads.
The Christmas travel period officially starts Tuesday, December 24, at 6 p.m. and ends Thursday, December 26, at 11:59 p.m.
The New Year’s holiday travel period gets underway Monday, December 30, at 6:00 p.m. and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
“This is a festive time of the year! We want everyone to drive sober, stay focused, obey the laws and enjoy this holiday season with family and friends,” says Georgia Department of Public Safety Commissioner Col. Billy Hitchens.
Hitchens urges travelers to “always have a plan” to have a sober driver. “If you are caught driving impaired, you will be arrested,” he warns.
Last year, 25 people died in wrecks on Georgia’s roads during the holiday travel period.
