AAA Michigan: Nearly Three Million Residents Plan Year-End Holiday Travel

An estimated 2.9 million Michigan residents -- slightly more than last year -- will travel 50 miles or more from home during the upcoming Christmas holiday period, according to AAA’s latest travel survey. Nationwide, AAA forecasts 93.3 million Americans will travel, up 1.6 percent from a year ago.

The 11-day year-end holiday period is the longest holiday travel season of the year, allowing residents time to visit family or enjoy vacations. AAA defines this year’s holiday travel season as Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012 to Tuesday, January 1, 2013.

Most Michigan travelers will go by car, truck or van to destinations this year -- 91 percent compared to 90 percent nationally. Seven percent will go by air, up slightly from last year, while the rest will travel by bus or train. Michigan motorists can expect to pay about four cents more for a gallon of gas ($3.357 as of December 13), compared to last year.

Most surveyed reported the main purpose of their trip was to visit family or friends.