Holiday travel surge: 3.7 million North Carolinians expected to hit roads and skies

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The holiday travel season is in full swing, with North Carolina airports and roads preparing for a significant increase in travelers through the New Year.

AAA anticipates that 3.7 million North Carolinians will travel between December 20 and January 1, a 2.9% rise from last year. This includes 3.3 million by car (up 2.5%), 200,184 by air (up 2%), and 191,535 using other transportation methods (up 11%).

Key Travel Trends

• Domestic Flights: Average cost $890 (up 7%)
• International Flights: Average cost $1,400 (down 14%)
• Hotel Stays: Average $750 (up 13%)
• Rental Cars: Average $635 (up 1%)

Road Travel

89% of holiday travelers are expected to drive this year, AAA estimated.

Gas prices are lower than last year, with the national average dipping below $3 per gallon for the first time in four years.

AAA advises drivers to check tires, batteries, and fluids before traveling, as emergency roadside calls reached over 860,000 last year. Drivers should also slow down and move over to protect roadside workers and stranded motorists.

Best and Worst Travel Times

• Saturday, December 20: Worst from noon to 8 p.m.; best after 9 p.m.
• Sunday, December 21: Worst from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.; best before 11 a.m.
• Monday-Tuesday, December 22-23: Worst from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.; best before 10 a.m.
• Friday-Sunday, December 26-28: Worst from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; best before 11 a.m.
• Monday, Dec. 29: Worst from noon to 8 p.m.; best before 10 a.m.
• Tuesday, Dec. 30: Worst from noon to 7 p.m.; best before 10 a.m.

Air Travel

A record 8.03 million Americans are expected to fly this holiday season, a 2.3% increase from 2024. AAA recommends purchasing travel insurance due to potential delays and cancellations caused by winter weather and high demand.

Travel Tips

• Check flight status and sign up for alerts.
• Arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three for international.
• Pack essentials like medications, chargers, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.
• Know airline policies on rebooking and compensation.
• Ensure you have a REAL ID, as additional screening may be required without one.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Parking

Book parking at least 24 hours in advance to secure your spot. Note that the ParkRDU Economy 4 lot will close to the public on January 2, becoming employee-only parking.

• ParkRDU Premier: Direct access to terminals with covered spaces.
• ParkRDU Central: Covered and outdoor spaces within walking distance of terminals.
• ParkRDU Express: Shuttle service with luggage assistance and free bottled water.
• ParkRDU Economy 3: Lowest rates with free shuttle service about every 20 minutes.

Terminal 2 Construction

Construction begins in early 2026, with completion expected in 2032. All ticket counters and security lanes will remain open during this time. Starting December 1, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection office entrance will relocate to the upstairs ticketing area of Terminal 2.

For more details, visit here.