As Christmas inches closer, holiday travel is expected to ramp up over the next several days.
AAA anticipates roughly 115 million people will hit the road or catch a flight starting Dec. 23.
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Scott Lara is a local travel agent and cruising expert. His advice for this time of year hasn’t changed:
“Book early if you’re going to book a cruise, book airfare, book an all-inclusive resort. Don’t wait to the last minute, be sure to book soon for best pricing,” Lara said.
Lara urges travelers to get to the airport at least two hours early and take advantage of options like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck to save some time.
The TSA app can help travelers get through airport security without getting held up at checkpoints. It also includes a full checklist of what can and can’t be brought on the flight.
If you’re choosing to drive to your destination, the best time to hit the road on Dec. 23 is before 10 a.m. and before noon on the 26th through the 30th. The worst time on Dec. 23 is from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the 28th.
Lara said he anticipates travel to pick up more next year and encourages people to take the trip because life is short.
“You’re only young for a certain amount of time, get out there and do it,” Lara said. “Have fun while you can, and especially if you have grandkids like I do. Take them on a cruise, make memories for a lifetime.”