WALNUT CREEK, Calif. – Santa’s reindeer won’t be the only ones taking to the skies this year. After two consecutive years of decline, the latest survey from AAA Northern California finds the number of Californians expected to travel over the Christmas-New Year’s holiday is on the rise.

 

AAA predicts more than 11.3 million Californians plan to travel 50 miles or more this Christmas and New Year’s holiday. This represents an overall increase of 11.3 percent compared to 2008.

 

“The fact that more Californians are traveling during this holiday season appears to indicate that consumers are more willing to spend money on leisure travel,” said AAA Northern California spokesperson Cynthia Harris. “Although many consumers are still feeling the pain of the current economic conditions, here in California they appear to be more focused on controlling costs rather than canceling trips.”

AAA’s projections are based on research conducted by IHS Global Insight. The Boston-based economic research and consulting firm teamed with AAA earlier this year as part of an agreement to jointly analyze travel trends during the major holidays.

 

AAA projects that more than 9.9 million Californians traveling during Christmas and New Year’s will travel by car to reach their holiday destinations. Driving is by far the most predominant mode of travel, and has seen a 12 percent increase compared to last year.

More than 633,000 Californians are planning to travel by air, which is an increase of 9 percent compared to 2008. Approximately 800,000 state residents are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, such as boats or trains. This represents an increase of 5 percent compared to last year.

 

Nationally, AAA projects 87.7 million people will travel 50 miles or more during the holiday festivities. That’s a 3.8 percent increase compared to last year.

 

Family travel constitutes 39 percent of total travelers during the year-end holidays. An average West Coast family of four will save money by staying with friends and family, with overall expenditures of $1,135. An average West Coast road trip will consist of approximately 800 miles. Those planning to stay in hotels will spend an average of $119 on accommodations. AAA Three Diamond lodgings are expected to be 10 percent lower, while AAA Two Diamond lodgings are expected to drop 6 percent from last year. Car rental rates are up 2 percent compared to last year’s holiday prices.

 

Although there continues to be a reduction of flights and destinations by major airlines, many air travelers are becoming more flexible as they plan their trips by changing their travel dates. Californians who take to the skies during this holiday season will pay an average price of $179 per round trip ticket.

 

As part of AAA’s ongoing commitment to provide safety and protection to motorists, AAA’s Tipsy Tow Program offers a free tow for drinking drivers in Northern California from 6 p.m. on Dec. 24 until 6 a.m. Dec. 25 and from 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 6 a.m. on Jan. 1. Members and non-members alike can call 800-222-4357 (AAA-HELP) for a free tow of up to five miles.

 

“Just tell the AAA operator, ‘I need a Tipsy Tow,’ and a truck will be on its way,” said Harris. “Service is restricted to a one-way ride for the driver and his or her vehicle to the driver’s home.”

 

Tips for holiday road travel

• Watch weather reports prior to long-distance drives. Delay trips in especially bad weather.

• Always make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition before starting a trip.

• Keep at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle at all times.

• Pack a cellular phone and car charger. Have emergency numbers available.

• If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It is an excellent shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to find you.

• Stay focused. Avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone and adjusting the radio or other electronic devices.

Air travel tips

• New TSA regulations require the name on your airline ticket/boarding pass to exactly match your name as it is printed on your government-issued identification.

• Make reservations for accommodations and rental cars ahead of time so prices can be locked in. Air fares are typically cheaper if arrangements are made early.

• Liquids and gel carry-ons will only be allowed in containers no larger than 3 ounces and must be placed in a quart-size Ziploc clear plastic bag.

• Know your airline’s policy regarding extra baggage and fees and plan your packing accordingly so you avoid these extra costs.