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2.4 million Virginians expected to hit the road this holiday season

Posted at 12:10 AM, Dec 22, 2012
and last updated 2012-12-22 00:10:48-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - For those who are traveling for the holidays, the nightmare of heavy traffic, flight delays, or travel expenses can be all too real.  So this year, you need to know what to look out for.

The headache that used to be filling the tank before a trip has been somewhat alleviated.  Gas prices have dropped in recent months, just in time for drivers traveling for the holidays.

“We were going to be paying a lot because we are flying to Orlando and driving to Ft. Meyers, so we're going to save a bundle,” Woody Holton, who was at a gas station on West Broad Street, says.

But once drivers get to roads, they'll likely see the heavy traffic that's synonymous with holiday road trips.

AAA Mid Atlantic projects a slight uptick in the number drivers on the road: 2.4 million Virginians are expected travel via car this holiday season.

“First take a deep breath know you're going to have a lot of company out there.  So give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination,” says Windy Van Curen with AAA Mid Atlantic.

As for that winter storm that worked its way through the Midwest, travel out of Richmond does not appear to be badly affected.

A spokesperson with Richmond International Airport says only a small percentage of flights were cancelled or delayed Friday; however, he does urge travelers to check their airline's website for any changes.

Those who decide to take a train wherever they're heading needn't worry, Amtrack has actually added capacity to certain trains due to the increase in the number of passengers.

In total, AAA Mid Atlantic projects that 2.7 million Virginians will travel more than 50 miles during the holiday season.