RALEIGH – AAA of the Carolinas says this holiday season will mark a record breaking year for travel with more than 3.1 million people across our state heading out of town from now through Jan. 1.
They say about 90 percent of North Carolina travelers will be on the roads this season.
Even though drivers will see slightly higher prices at the gas pump this year, that's not stopping people from getting behind the wheel to visit with family and friends.
However, officials want to remind everyone, because we're expecting to see record-breaking numbers on the road, be sure you remember the rules of the road.
AAA offers the following holiday road survival tips:
- Map your route in advance and be prepared for busy roads.
- Keep valuables in the trunk or covered storage area.
- Have your roadside assistance contact information on hand in case an incident occurs on the road.
- Keep a cell phone and charger with you at all times, in case of emergency.
- Obey traffic safety laws: wear your seatbelt. Don't speed. Don't drink and drive. Eliminate distractions behind the wheel, such as mobile devices. Be disconnected and drive.
- Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready. Stop by a trusted repair shop for an inspection.
AAA also expects more than 170,000 people to fly out of town from the Tar Heel State as well during the holiday period.
They recommend getting to the airport at least two hours ahead of time to get through the busy security checkpoints.