Most people will drive to their holiday destinations—about 8.5 million Texans are expected to drive, while 413,000 people will fly, according to a news release.
“This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” AAA Texas Vice President Galen Grillo said in the release. “This year, with Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we will see many families not only take road trips but also fly to international destinations and set sail for warm destinations in the Caribbean.”
Here’s what Texans should know before hitting the road or heading to the airport this holiday season.
The details
Texas gas prices are slightly higher than last holiday season, according to AAA Texas. One gallon of regular unleaded gas cost about $2.67 on Dec. 19, up from $2.60 one year ago. The national average price for a gallon of gas is $3.04.
“As anticipated, gas prices are on the rise as we approach the end of 2024,” AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster said in a news release. “With record-breaking holiday travel volumes projected, the increased demand for fuel is likely to result in higher prices in the coming days.”
Drivers should give themselves extra time to reach their destinations in the coming days, as major Texas highways will likely be congested Dec. 20-21 and before the new year, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Minimal traffic is expected Dec. 24-25.
Zooming in
State officials are reminding motorists to be cautious, watch out for emergency vehicles and never drive after drinking alcohol.
“During the holidays our roads are busier than ever, so safety must remain a top priority,” said Freeman Martin, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, in a news release. “I again want to remind Texans to be alert, put your phones down and make driving your sole focus when you’re behind the wheel. ... If we all simply pay attention and follow the traffic laws, we can help ensure everyone makes it home safely for the holidays this year.”
The DPS will increase patrols Dec. 20-Jan. 1, with state troopers looking for people speeding, not wearing their seatbelts, driving while intoxicated and failing to yield to emergency vehicles. State troopers arrested 145 people for drunken driving and other traffic offenses last holiday season, the DPS reported.
Officials encourage drivers to keep themselves and others safe by doing the following:
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Slow down in bad weather, heavy traffic, construction zones and unfamiliar areas.
- Eliminate distractions, and never use mobile devices while driving.
- Ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt.
- Use the left lane for passing only on multilane roads.
- Check DriveTexas for weather and traffic conditions before leaving home.
- Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number, 1-800-525-5555, stored in your phone.
- Move over or slow down for emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road.
One more thing
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration expects to screen nearly 40 million passengers from Dec. 19-Jan. 20, according to a social media post. The busiest days will likely be Dec. 20, Dec. 27 and Dec. 30, the TSA projects.
Aviation officials encourage travelers to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight’s scheduled boarding time to give themselves enough time to park, check luggage and go through security. Passengers should arrive three hours before international flights, according to the TSA.
