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Millions to Take to U.S. Highways Over the Holidays
Saturday, December 22, 2012    
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AAA forecasts nearly one-hundred-million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home during the upcoming holidays.

Approximately 83.6 million people (91 percent of holiday travelers) plan to take to the nation’s roadways this Year-End holiday travel season, a 2.1 percent increase compared to 2010-11 when the number of auto travelers totaled 81.9 million.

Holiday air travel expected to increase 4.5 percent to 5.6 million travelers from 5.4 million in 2011.

Approximately 3.3 million travelers will choose other modes of transportation, including rail, bus and cruise ship.

AAA estimates the national average price of gasoline will slowly drop through the end of the year. Currently the national average for a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $3.248. Gas prices dropped about 50 cents a gallon on average from September through early December, but remain at record highs for this time of year.

AAA does not expect gas prices to have a major impact on travel volume, but consumers could have more money to spend on holiday shopping, dining and entertainment if prices drop through December as expected.