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AAA Projects Busiest Travel Holiday on Record

24 November 1998

AAA Projects Busiest Travel Holiday on Record; Roads and Airports as Crowded as the Mayflower

    SAN FRANCISCO--Nov. 23, 1998--Northern Californians will be stuffing the highways and skyways to set a travel record over Thanksgiving weekend, AAA reported today.
    "A record 33.6 million Americans will make a pilgrimage of at least 100 miles from home this Thanksgiving weekend," said AAA of Northern California spokesman Paul Moreno. "A strong economy and low gas prices are the recipe for abundant travel."
    The most popular driving destinations for Northern Californians this weekend are Lake Tahoe, Monterey, Southern California and Las Vegas, according to AAA.
    Northern California gas prices are at four-and a-half-year low , with a gallon of regular unleaded self-serve gas averaging $1.17, according to AAA's monthly gas survey.
    "Despite the busy travel period, anyone who is flexible on departure times and routing can still book package vacations," Moreno said. "Wednesday and Sunday are traditionally the year's peak days for air travel, but Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after are slow air travel days."
    About one in eight Americans will venture 100 miles or more from home this weekend. Ten percent of Americans -- or 27.7 million -- will drive. Two percent -- or 5.8 million -- will go by airplane, train or bus, according to AAA's survey.
    Nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of holiday travelers will stay overnight with family or friends, while 23 percent will say in hotels and motels. Four percent will stay in a condo or cabin, while 3 percent will stay in a camper, trailer, recreational vehicle or tent. Six percent will return home and not stay overnight, according to AAA.

Tips for air travelers

--   Arrange for a ride or take public transit to the airport as
     parking lots will fill quickly.

--   Plan to arrive at the airport two hours before departure time to
     allow for baggage check and security checks. Allow three hours
     for international flights.

--   When calling airlines to confirm your departure and return
     flights, ask about the carry on baggage policies, which many
     airlines have changed recently. With so many families traveling
     together, carry on luggage rules may be more strictly enforced.

Tips for motorists

--   Check your auto's tires, oil and coolant level, lights and
     windshield wipers before starting any long trip. Carry a
     flashlight and vehicle safety kit. If traveling in snow, bring
     tire chains, ice scraper and blankets. Keep your fuel tank at
     least half full in case of detours or very slow traffic.

--   Plan your route and keep a map handy. Avoid rush hour by leaving
     earlier or planning your meal stops during peak commute hours.
     Take a break every two hours or 100 miles of driving. Do not be
     in a hurry as wet weather and heavy traffic require more careful
     driving.

--   Bring snacks and soft toys for young children. Books on tape can
     help pass the time on a long trip.

    Established more than 90 years ago, the AAA affiliate of Northern California, Nevada and Utah offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is the second largest regional affiliate of the national AAA organization.