BOISE, Idaho — AAA estimates more than 115 million Americans will hit the roads or airways for holiday travel, including 660,000 Idahoans.
AAA predicts that the busiest days on the road will be Saturday, Dec. 23 and Saturday, Dec. 30. For the airport, the busiest days are expected to be Dec. 21 and 22. With an additional 2.5 million travelers this year, AAA said that long lines and congested roads can occur at any time this holiday season.
"It's been another busy year for road trips and flights, with everything building to a crescendo for Christmas and New Year's," AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde said. "We encourage everyone to keep safety, patience, and courtesy top of mind so that we can all celebrate in style."
For those driving to their family gatherings, gasoline prices are averaging $3.30 per gallon in the Gem State, which is 11 cents less than a week ago and 41 cents less than a month ago. The national average is at $3.10 per gallon, according to AAA.
GasBuddy reported that gasoline prices are projected to slowly rise through the end of 2023, with price relief coming again mid-January, depending on economic conditions.
"For the second straight year, we've seen the national average stop just short of falling below the $3 per gallon mark, though tens of thousands of gas stations around the U.S. will still have prices at $2.99 or lower," Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy said.
AAA provided a list of driving tips for this holiday hustle and bustle:
- Avoid wearing bulky coats in your car and opt for layers that allow freedom in movement.
- Don't blindly follow your GPS. If the road doesn't appear to be maintained, turn around.
- Share your travel plans with a loved one who can act on your behalf if you don't arrive.
- Actively scan the road for potholes, ice, debris, and wildlife.
- If you start to skid, keep steering in the direction you want to go.
"We never tire of saying it because it never stops being true – your emergency kit is an important resource to have on a long trip, especially during inclement weather," Conde said. "That includes first-aid items, a flashlight with fresh batteries, flares or reflectors, jumper cables, basic tools, snacks and water, and a couple of extra blankets. You may also want a collapsible shovel and tire chains depending on where you're headed."
AAA also gave tips on best practices for airline travel:
- Pack important documents, medicine, toiletries, snacks and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. If possible, avoid checking bags altogether.
- Park your car in a well-lit area at the airport and take a picture of your car's location. Hide or remove valuables from the car.
- Download the airline app for the most up-to-date information, including possible delays or gate changes.
- Arrive early so that you can relax and enjoy food, art, and other activities at the airport.
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