An estimated 113 million people will be traveling nationwide for the holidays this year. That’s according to Fran Mayko of AAA Northeast, and it’s a 3% increase over last year.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a large storm stretching from the Midwest to the Atlantic on Thursday through most of Friday. The storm is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rain and potential coastal flooding. The weather service says very cold temperatures are also anticipated.
This extreme weather will be one wildcard for road trips this weekend, influencing when people will choose to travel. Other factors include the holidays falling on a Sunday. That can allow for longer vacations and people having more ability to work remotely, which can provide more flexibility with travel plans.
AAA statistics estimate that 90% of Americans will be driving, 6% flying and the remainder taking other modes of transportation like trains or cruises.
“What we do suggest people to do, whether they’re taking a car, a flight, a boat, whatever, just pack your patience because we, as Americans, are traveling. Our numbers are a lot higher than last year, we’re getting up there and we’re gonna go, go, go,” Mayko said.
Mayko also said that the least traveled days will be the actual holidays: Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. She suggested, if possible, to avoid travel on Monday, Dec. 26, and Monday, Jan. 2, when travel is expected to be highest.