More Delawareans expected to travel over Thanksgiving weekend

Delawareans appear to be in the mood for a holiday getaway.

 

More First State residents are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home over Thanksgiving weekend, compared to a year ago.  AAA Mid-Atlantic projects a growth of 11.3% in holiday weekend travel from 2010.

Travelers seem to be encouraged by a slightly improving economy, but are also still being cautious with their household budgets and discretionary spending, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic Director of Public and Government Affairs Jim Lardear.

“Thanksgiving is a strong holiday for families.  It really connects people, their families and friends, so they’ll want to travel,” Lardear said.

AAA projects 95% of Delawareans will make their trip by car, while 4% will fly. The average price of gas in Delaware is $2.92 a gallon, 35 cents higher than a year ago.  Gas has risen by about ten cents a gallon in the past week, but has yet to crack $3 in Delaware.

However you travel, Lardear advises to pack plenty of patience, and plan ahead.  AAA offers free TripTik travel planning at AAA.com, and several iPhone applications are available that offer information on travel conditions and services.

Additionally, if you are going by car it’s a good idea to make sure the tires, wiper blades and battery are in good condition, and to have an emergency kit that includes jumper cables, flares, first-aid supplies, blankets, a snow brush, an ice scraper, drinking water and snacks.