OUR VIEW: Share the road, plan ahead as heavy travel expected

Published 11:30 am Wednesday, December 15, 2021

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AAA released its annual year-end, holiday travel forecast on Tuesday, and boy does it look like it’s going to be at airports and on the roadways.

The transportation experts predict that more than 109 million people will be hitting the road this holiday season, which is almost triple the number from 2020. All of those folks are expected to travel more than 50 miles between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2.

That brings travel numbers to 92% of 2019 travel levels, and airlines are expected to see a 184% increase compared to last year.

So, if you are hitting the roads this holiday season, or hopping on an airplane, we encourage you to plan ahead.

That means leave with enough time to compensate for longer lines at security checkpoints. It means not driving twice the speed limit to make it in “record time.”

Share the road with those around you, understanding that they have loved ones they want to be with as well.

It also means expecting your travel day to be a long one. If you happen to find a time with open roads — or short lines at the airport — then it’ll make your day even better. Expect the worst and hope for the best.

Most importantly, be careful and take your time.