Navigating the Holidays: Essential Travel Tips for the 3.5 Million North Carolinians Taking to the Skies and Roads!

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — In spite of the glitch with American Airlines earlier this week, the holiday travel period has been mild.

From December 21 to January 1, AAA estimates that around 3.5 million residents of North Carolina will journey 50 miles or farther, whether by car, airplane, or another form of transportation. This marks an increase of 117,000 travelers compared to the previous year.

“Travelers should anticipate the highways, airports, and cruise terminals to be busier than usual,” stated Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Thus, finalize your travel arrangements…and allow yourself additional time to reach your destination. We also recommend considering travel insurance, which can offer support in case winter conditions or unforeseen events disrupt your plans.”

Here’s what to expect before setting out on the road or arriving at the airport:

Road Travel

Road travel is projected to achieve a record high in the Tar Heel state. AAA indicates that over 3.2 million North Carolinians will embark on a road trip of 50 miles or more. This represents a boost of 92,000 road-trippers from last year.

As per AAA, 91% of holiday travelers plan to drive to their destinations, positioning it as the most favored method of transport.

“Numerous travelers, especially families with young children, value the flexibility and reduced costs associated with road trips,” remarked Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group, in a news announcement. “Demand for fuel typically decreases in December as temperatures drop, more individuals work from home, and holiday shoppers opt to order their gifts online instead of in-store.”

Optimal and Suboptimal Times for Travel

Friday, Dec. 27
Optimal: Before 2 p.m.
Suboptimal: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 28
Optimal: Before 11 p.m.
Suboptimal: 1:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 29
Optimal: Before 11 p.m.
Suboptimal: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 30
Optimal: Before 2 p.m.
Suboptimal: 5 p.m – 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 31
Minimal traffic congestion is anticipated.

Wednesday, Jan. 1
Minimal traffic congestion is anticipated.

Thursday, Jan. 2
Optimal: Before 3 p.m.
Suboptimal: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

FURTHER READING | Holiday travel inquiries addressed: Expert guidelines on delays, cancellations, and more

Safety Recommendations

• Adhere to posted speed limitations: Per AAA, speeding may create an illusion of quicker movement but frequently results in tragedies and accidents.

• Drive solely when alert: According to AAA, operating a vehicle after four or five hours of sleep is equally as hazardous as driving with a 0.08 BAC. Risks increase twofold with fewer than four hours of sleep. It is also advisable to avoid overnight drives and refrain from heavy meals, drowsy medications, and alcohol.

• Slow down and yield the lane: A roadside worker falls victim every week across the nation, stated AAA. Every state and the District of Columbia enforce Move Over laws.

Air Travel

Almost 7.9 million individuals in the U.S. are projected to take at least one domestic flight this festive season, according to AAA. This figure exceeds the former record of 7.5 million air passengers last year.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates screening close to 40 million individuals this holiday period. Fridays and December 30 are expected to be among the busiest days.

Flight costs are reported to be 4% higher compared to last year, based on AAA’s flight booking statistics. The average price for a domestic ticket is $830, whereas international flights are averaging 13% costlier, at about $1630 per ticket.

Holiday Travel Recommendations

• Allocate extra driving time: The roads can be especially congested in the late afternoon and early evening hours.

• Reserve parking online: Travelers have the option to reserve parking…here for assured access to the lot of their preference. Reservations should be arranged at least 24 hours in advance. If you do not secure a spot beforehand, visit the homepage to check which parking ramps and lots have open spaces.

• Arrive at the airport ahead of time: RDU advises passengers to reach the airport two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international flights. This will provide ample time to park, check in, and pass through security. Airlines typically start boarding around 30 to 40 minutes before takeoff.

• Get ready for security: You can check what items are permitted at the TSA checkpoint here.

• Utilize the cell lot: If you are collecting someone from the airport, you may take advantage of RDU’s complimentary cell lot at 1000 Trade Drive and wait for them to inform you of their plane’s arrival. Allow 30 minutes for the individual to deplane and retrieve their baggage before meeting you at the curb. You can also collect passengers at the arrivals or departures curb.

• Monitor delays and cancellations at RDU here