AAA predicts record-breaking travel for year-end holidays

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) – AAA is predicting the year-end holidays travel for 2024 will reach record-breaking numbers.

Nationwide, travel numbers are expected to each more than 119 million travelers. For the Mountain State, AAA predicts nearly 600,000 West Virginians are expected to travel.

The West Virginia forecast for this year is about 2.9% higher than the actual number of travelers for the year-end holidays in 2023.

Nationwide, this year’s forecast surpasses 2023’s year-end travel numbers by three million travelers.

“As a record-breaking holiday travel season gets under way, AAA wants to take this opportunity to remind travelers to enjoy the journey, but stay safe and be mindful of their surroundings at all times,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, public affairs manager, AAA Blue Grass. “Those traveling by car need to stay aware of the roadway and the traffic around them. All travelers should stay alert, secure their wallets and purses, and never leave their luggage unattended at hotels or airports.”

What West Virginia travelers can expect

AAA predicts 598,284 West Virginians will travel 50 miles or more from home for the 2024 end-of-year holiday travel period, Saturday, Dec. 21 – Wednesday, Jan. 1.

The worst times to travel by car are the weekend before Christmas and the weekend before New Year’s Day. December 22 is expected to be the worst day for road travel over the holidays. AAA suggests leaving home in the morning on Dec. 22 to avoid the heaviest traffic.

While roadways will see the most travelers, more West Virginians are expected to fly this year compared to last year. 33,631 West Virginians are expected to take to the skies during the holiday travel period.

“Travelers are advised to give themselves additional time to make it through the airport,” advises Weaver Hawkins. “Download the airline’s app so you can stay on top of any changes in gates or flight times.”

30,091 West Virginians are expected to travel by cruises, buses and trains. This is an increase of about 7.2$ compared to 2023.

The average cost per gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in West Virginia is $2.92, as of Dec. 7, 2024. This is about 11 cents lower than the average one year ago.

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