Many Central New Yorkers travel during the holidays. Triple A of Western and Central New York is out with their annual travel forecast once again, including advice on what to expect and how to prepare.
Lots of people travel during the holiday period … and this year, the Triple A expects some record numbers. They estimate 122 million people will travel more than 50 miles over the next two weeks. For air travel, it should top 8 million people for the first time ever.
Triple A travel specialist Beth Steves recommends downloading airline apps and signing up for texts in case of delays or cancellations.
She has other tips to ease travel: “Try to pack lightly so you can avoid checking a bag. If you have a carry-on bag and you experience a flight disruption, you’re going to have all your belongings with you already. Reserve airport parking in advance it you can. Travel insurance also helps with unforeseen events,” Steves added.
Of course, the vast majority of families will be traveling by car. AAA estimated more than 109 million people will hit the road at some time.
Some good news for drivers, gas prices nationwide are below $3.00-a-gallon on average, just above – $3.05 in the Syracuse area.
Spokesperson Mark Gruba says research finds the busiest times on the road this weekend are between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm, with traffic easing after 9:00 pm. He suggests picking a safe time to head out.
“It’s always best to drive, particularly on longer road trips, at times of day when you’re used to driving. Most people aren’t used to taking long trips after 9:00 at night. That can bring in factors like drowsiness and distraction," said Gruba.
Triple A also suggests having your car checked out before any long trip and carrying emergency supplies. For winter travel, suggestions include blankets, food and water, and a cell phone charger in case you get stranded. They also warn, if you find your self stranded, to stay with your vehicle inside, making sure your tailpipe is free of snow if you run the vehicle for warmth.
Triple A’s Valerie Puma added, use an extra dose of caution because not everyone is driving with holiday cheer.
“Road rage is also a growing concern, last minute holiday shoppers or maybe trying to get to our destinations on time," she noted, "27% of drivers surveyed admitted to running a red light and 22% admitted to aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or weaving through traffic dangerously.”
All modes of travel will be busy. So, they suggest perhaps the best thing to pack is patience.
