An estimated 2.9 million Michigan residents - on par with last year - will travel 50 miles or more from home during the upcoming Christmas holiday period according to AAA. Nationwide, AAA forecasts over 94 million Americans will travel, a slight increase from last year.

Most Michigan travelers will go by car, truck or van to destinations this year - 92 percent compared to the 91 percent nationally. Six percent will go by air, down slightly from last year, while the rest will travel by bus or train. AAA says Michigan motorists can expect to pay about 12 cents less for a gallon of gas compared to last year.

Of those surveyed, the majority reported the main purpose of their travels was to visit family and friends. They will also stay with family and friends, however, those who don't will plan hotel stays will find prices relative flat with averages of $138 per night.

For those traveling by air, they will find airfares slightly lower than last year. During Christmas week, the average lowest round-trip is $199 for the top 40 U.S. air routes, compared to $204 last year.

The year-end holiday period is defined as Saturday, December 21 through Wednesday, January 1, 2014.

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