WALNUT CREEK, Calif. – Holiday travel through the end of the year continues to rebound despite inflation worries.
Nearly 15 million Californians are expected to pack their bags during the 11-day period between December 23 through January 2, according to AAA data. That’s a 3.7 percent rise from last year.
Overall, the year-end holidays are expected to be the busiest since 2019. Nationwide, nearly 102 million people will travel by car, an increase of nearly 2 percent from 2021. About 7.2 million people will fly, an increase of 14 percent over last year.
“With Christmas and New Year’s Day falling on a Sunday, heavier traffic can be expected through the end of the year,” said Brian Ng, Senior Vice President of Membership and Travel Marketing for AAA Northern California.
AAA Northern California Offers Five Holiday Travel Tips
- Check the forecast. Weather is unpredictable and can cause flight delays or cancellations.
- Travel during off-peak periods (before 2 p.m. or after 8 p.m.), if possible. Road traffic peaks on the Friday before Christmas and December 27 and 28.
- Plan for delays. Drivers can expect up to 25 percent longer travel times nationwide.
- Get a pre-trip inspection to ensure your vehicle is road-ready. Nearly 900,000 travelers will call AAA for roadside assistance nationwide.
- Find the lowest gas prices on your travel route with the AAA Mobile App.
About AAA Northern California
AAA has a proud history of serving Members for over 100 years. AAA is on a mission to create Members for life by unleashing the innovative spirit of 5,300 employees representing more than 6 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, and Alaska. In addition to legendary roadside assistance, AAA offers home, auto, and life insurance, travel, and home security services.
Learn more at AAA.com.
