MOUNT PLEASANT, SC (WCBD) – Monday is expected to be one of the busiest days on the road in two weeks as holiday travelers mix with commuters, according to AAA.
Between December 23 and January 2, experts at AAA predicted that over 102 million people would travel to reach their vacation destination.
According to AAA, the worst times to hit the road on Monday are between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, while there is likely to be less traffic before 3:00 PM and after 8:00 PM.
Plus, if you plan to fill up your tank on Monday, it will cost you a bit more now than at Christmas.
According to GasBuddy, the average price of a gallon of gas in South Carolina rose nearly 20 cents in the last week to $2.92.
Still, that price remains about a dime lower than it was a year ago — and GasBuddy projects that the national average annual gas price will be nearly 50 cents cheaper in 2023 than in 2022.
Travel experts said an increase in remote work in the past year has had an impact on holiday travel patterns.
“With hybrid work schedules, we’re seeing more people take long weekends to travel because they can work remotely at their destination and be more flexible with their departure and return days,” said Paula Twidale, Vice President of AAA Travel.
As the end of the year drives come to an end, safety experts offer helpful tips for people who get behind the wheel.
“Best tip for staying safe on the road – leave early if you can so you’re not in a rush. People who are in a hurry are more likely to take some of those unnecessary risks while behind the wheel,” said Mark Jenkins, AAA spokesman.
For more safety tips from AAA, click here.
