North Carolina Vacation Travel: 3.5 million North Carolinians expected to hit the road and the skies. Here are some tips.

RALEIGH, North Carolina (WTVD) — Despite that hiccup with American Airlines earlier this week, it's been a smooth holiday season.

From December 21 to January 1, AAA estimates that 3.5 million North Carolinians will travel 50 miles or more by car, plane or other means of transportation. This is 117,000 more than last year.

“Travelers should expect roadways, airports and cruise terminals to be busier than usual,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “So, finalize your travel plans…and give yourself extra time to get to your destination. We also suggest travel insurance, which provides assistance in the event of winter conditions or unforeseen events that interfere with your plans .”

Here's what to expect before hitting the road or heading to the airport:

Road trip

Road travel is expected to set a new record in the Tar Heel State. More than 3.2 million North Carolinians will take a road trip of 50 miles or more, AAA said. This represents 92,000 more roadtrippers than last year.

According to AAA, 91% of vacationers will get to their destination by car, making it the most popular method of travel.

“Many travelers, especially families with young children, prefer the flexibility and lower cost that road trips offer,” Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in a statement. press. “Gas demand in December declines as the weather gets colder, more people work remotely, and holiday shoppers buy their gifts online rather than in person.”

Best/worst times to hit the road

Friday December 27
Best: before 2 p.m.
Worst: from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday December 28
Best: before 11 p.m.
Worst: 1:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday December 29
Best: before 11 p.m.
Worst: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Monday December 30
Best: before 2 p.m.
Worst: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday December 31
Minimal impact on traffic is expected.

Wednesday January 1
Minimal impact on traffic is expected.

Thursday January 2
Best: before 3 p.m.
Worst: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

SEE ALSO | Holiday Travel Questions Answered: Expert Guide to Delays, Refunds and More

Safety Tips

• Obey posted speed limits: According to AAA, speed may seem faster, but it often leads to tragedies and accidents.

• Drive only when you are alert: According to the AAA, driving with four or five hours of sleep is as dangerous as driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08. The risks double with less than four hours of sleep. You should also avoid driving at night and avoid large meals, drowsy medications and alcohol.

• Slow down and move forward: One road worker is killed every week nationwide, AAA said. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have Move Over laws in place.

Air travel

It is estimated that nearly 7.9 million Americans will take at least one domestic flight this holiday season, AAA said. This number surpassed the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers last year.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said it expects to screen nearly 40 million people this holiday season. Fridays and December 30 will be among the busiest days.

Flights are 4% more expensive than last year, according to AAA flight booking data. The average domestic ticket is $830, while international flights are 13% more expensive, averaging $1,630 per ticket.

Vacation Travel Tips

• Allow extra driving time: Roads can be particularly busy in the late afternoon and early evening.

• Reserve parking online: Travelers can reserve parking here for guaranteed entry into the land of their choice. Reservations can be made at least 24 hours in advance. If you don't reserve a space in advance, check the homepage to see what parking and lots are available.

• Arrive early at the airport: RDU recommends travelers arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. This will give you plenty of time to park, check in and go through security. Airlines start boarding approximately 30-40 minutes before departure.

• Prepare for safety: You can consult what is allowed at the TSA checkpoint here.

• Use the cell batch: If you're picking someone up from the airport, you can use RDU's free parking at 1000 Trade Drive and wait until they know their plane has landed. Allow 30 minutes for them to get off the plane and collect their luggage before meeting up at the curb. You can also collect passengers at the curb of arrivals or departures.

• Check delays and cancellations at RDU here