Nearly 3 million Tennesseans expected to travel for the holidays

JACKSON, Tenn. — One of the biggest travel seasons of the year just got busier.

Many travelers are gearing up to hit the roads and skies this holiday season. Experts tell us the end of the year is one of the busiest travel times.

“This year, we are expecting 2.8 million Tennesseans to take a trip for the year-end holidays,” said Megan Cooper with AAA. “The majority of those, about 2.6 million, will be driving to their destination.”

According to AAA, the travel prediction is up 2.2% from last year.

Road trips are especially popular during the winter months. So, before you hit the road, Cooper says to check your vehicle.

“If it’s been awhile since you’ve had routine maintenance on your vehicle, now is the time to check,” Cooper said. “So make sure that you are up to date on your oil changes. Go ahead and check some of those basic things, like your tires, your headlights, your windshield wipers.”

AAA also compiled a list of the best and worst times to travel by car during the holidays.

You’re encouraged to travel earlier in the day to avoid travel congestion.

“Friday, December 26th is also expected to be busy as travelers make moves post-Christmas Day,” said Cooper.

But here’s a nice gift for travelers planning a year-end road trip.

“Right now, Tennesseans are seeing the cheapest gas prices in four years,” Cooper said. “While it’s possible we could see some gas price fluctuation around the holidays, it’s very likely that gas prices will remain low through the holidays and through the end of the year.”

AAA reports that gas prices are down, but flights and hotel stays are more expensive this year.

TDOT is halting all lane closure activity on interstates and state highways in anticipation of higher traffic. Drivers are still expected to obey all posted speed limits, particularly in construction zones.

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