Summary
AAA has provided guidance on the best and worst times to drive during the Christmas holiday to avoid heavy traffic. A record 122.4 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during this period. Congestion is anticipated to be highest the weekend before Christmas and during midday to early evening hours.
Key Facts
- 122.4 million Americans will likely travel at least 50 miles for the holidays.
- This is a 2.2% increase compared to last year and the highest on record.
- Roads are expected to be busiest the weekend before Christmas, especially on interstates.
- The worst travel times are generally midday to early evening, while the best are early morning or late at night.
- Holidays like Christmas Day and New Year’s Day usually have lighter traffic.
- INRIX forecasts key congested routes, with some seeing travel times more than double.
- Most holiday travelers, about 109.5 million, will travel by car.
- December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and AAA advises safe driving.
