The holiday travel period is now underway across North Carolina, with transportation hubs bracing for substantial passenger volumes continuing into the New Year.
According to AAA projections, approximately 3.7 million residents of the state will journey during the December 20 to January 1 timeframe. This represents a 2.9% increase compared to the previous year. Breakdowns indicate 3.3 million will travel by automobile (a 2.5% rise), around 200,184 will fly (up 2%), and roughly 191,535 will use other modes like buses or trains (an 11% jump).
Travel Cost Overview
Domestic Flights: Average fare is $890, marking a 7% increase.
International Flights: Average fare is $1,400, showing a 14% decrease.
Hotel Rates: Average nightly cost is $750, up 13%.
Rental Cars: Average rate is $635, a slight 1% increase.
Road Travel Dominates
AAA estimates that driving will be the choice for 89% of holiday travelers this season.
Motorists are benefiting from lower fuel costs, with the national average gasoline price falling below $3 per gallon for the first time in four years.
The organization urges drivers to perform pre-trip checks on tires, batteries, and fluids, noting that emergency roadside assistance calls exceeded 860,000 last year. They also remind drivers to slow down and move over for the safety of roadside workers and disabled vehicles.
Peak Travel Times
Saturday, December 20: Heaviest congestion expected from noon to 8 p.m.; lighter traffic after 9 p.m.
Sunday, December 21: Peak delays likely from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.; smoother travel before 11 a.m.
Monday-Tuesday, December 22-23: Busiest periods from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.; best conditions before 10 a.m.
Friday-Sunday, December 26-28: High traffic from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; optimal travel before 11 a.m.
Monday, Dec. 29: Congestion expected from noon to 8 p.m.; clearer roads before 10 a.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 30: Worst times from noon to 7 p.m.; best before 10 a.m.
Air Travel Reaches New Highs
A record 8.03 million Americans are anticipated to fly during the holidays, a 2.3% increase from 2024. AAA suggests considering travel insurance due to possible disruptions from winter weather and high passenger demand.
Flying Recommendations
Monitor flight status and enable airline notifications.
Arrive at airports at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international departures.
Pack crucial items like medicines, device chargers, and spare clothing in carry-on luggage.
Familiarize yourself with airline rebooking and compensation rules.
Ensure you possess a REAL ID, as additional screening may apply without it.
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) Updates
Parking Information
Travelers are advised to reserve parking spaces at least 24 hours ahead. Note that the ParkRDU Economy 4 lot will transition to employee-only parking starting January 2.
ParkRDU Premier: Offers covered parking with direct terminal access.
ParkRDU Central: Provides both covered and outdoor parking within walking distance to terminals.
ParkRDU Express: Includes shuttle service with luggage help and complimentary bottled water.
ParkRDU Economy 3: Features the lowest rates with complimentary shuttle service approximately every 20 minutes.
Terminal 2 Expansion
Construction on Terminal 2 is scheduled to commence in early 2026, with an anticipated completion date in 2032. All ticket counters and security checkpoints will remain operational throughout the project. Starting December 1, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection office entrance will move to the upper-level ticketing area of Terminal 2.
