AAA: More Than 2 Million Virginians Traveling For Holidays

Hitting the road for the holidays? The American Automobile Association says you will be among 2.7 million Virginians who will be traveling this week.

On average, travelers will move 965 miles to celebrate with friends and family as compared to 765 miles last year — a 26 percent increase in total miles traveled. Additionally, spending is up by five percent as Virginians will spend $842 this year versus $801 last year, AAA says.

“Gas prices will clearly not impact holiday travel plans as nine out of 10 Virginia travelers will drive nearly a thousand miles for upcoming holiday celebrations,” said Martha Mitchell Meade, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic.

Says AAA:

Gas prices have been somewhat of a see-saw in recent weeks within the commonwealth with latest trends showing gas prices going down as we approach the new year.  Over 2.4 million Virginians, or 91 percent of holiday travelers, will choose to drive to their holiday celebrations. Gas prices in Virginia today average $3.14, three cents higher than the average last year.

Air travel in Virginia will decrease by 1.6 percent, as just over 150,000 (150,149) holiday travelers will take to the skies. Those traveling by air will find lower airfares according to AAA’s Leisure Travel Index.  During Christmas week the average lowest round-trip rate is $199 for the top 40 U.S. air routes compared to $204 last year.

Caught in airport delays or road blocks Monday or Tuesday? Help out your fellow travelers by tweeting us reports @Restonnow or adding your thoughts in the comments below.