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Holiday Travel Period Expected to Increase

by KREX News Room
by John Dias

Story Created: Nov 20, 2012 at 8:16 AM MDT

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2012 at 8:16 AM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- Thanksgiving is right around the corner and many folks will be traveling to share the day with loved ones.

But if you plan on hitting the pavement or flying though the sky this holiday season, you're not the only one. In fact, AAA says more than 43 million Americans will take trips of 50 miles or more during the Thanksgiving weekend.

This marks the fourth year of growth in a row since 2008.

"Everyone is in the same boat, wanting to get somewhere for the holidays," said Yvonna Claeys, travel agent at First Class Travel. "But there’s not a lot of flying because people are driving where they can and taking advantage of the low gas prices."

Officials are predicting the national average gas price to fall between $3.25 and $3.40 by the holiday.

"Go to your areas that you know you can get cheaper gas a head of time and watch where you’re stopping and plan your gas stops,” said Claeys. “It will help a lot.”

But even though gas prices are on the decline and skies are expected to be blue, nothing would have stopped Grand Junction resident Donnie Alexandar from getting to his family in Phoenix.

“Traffic is traffic,” said Alexandar. “It’s just all part of the deal.”

Travel officials say there are some simple tips to consider before you start your holiday trip:

- Leave early and avoid peak times
- Keep top half of gas tank full
- Make sure car is "road ready"
- Carry blankets, water and snacks

With the busy travel period expected to last until Sunday, officials say keeping these tips in mind could be something you're giving thanks to this Thanksgiving.

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