AAA predicts the number of holiday travelers to exceed 100 million for the first time, boosted by the lowest gas prices for nearly seven years.
It says nearly one in three Americans will take a holiday trip of 50 miles or more from home between December 23, 2015 to January 3, 2016.
"The holidays are a time for joining with friends and family, and the record number of people traveling this holiday should make for a joyous travel season," said Marshall Doney, AAA president and CEO.
"Rising incomes and low gas prices are helping to fill stockings this year, and more people than ever will choose to spend those savings on travel this year."
Of the estimated 100.5 million travelers, 91.3 million will drive while 5.8 million will fly to their holiday destinations.
More than 3 million will use other modes of transportation, including cruises, trains and buses.
The AAA’s Leisure Travel Index said domestic airfares are 6% lower this holiday at an average of $174 roundtrip for the top 40 domestic flight routes, although hotel rates have risen.
Rates for AAA three diamond rated hotels are up 4% this year, with travelers spending an average of $150 per night on accommodations.
