TAMPA, FLA. — This year’s holiday travel season is shaping up to be a record-setter. 

According to AAA, more than 122 million Americans are expected to travel this week and next week, with millions already beginning their journeys: especially those driving.

What You Need To Know

 More than 122 million Americans will travel for the holidays over the next two weeks

 Florida will see 7.6-million residents travel 50 miles or more, with 6.7 million of them driving

 Gas prices are at 4-year-lows, averaging under $3 a gallon nationally

Travel for the holidays is seeing a 2% increase compared to last year

In Florida alone, 7.5 million people are expected to travel for the holidays. Of those, 6.7 million will be on the road, making driving the most popular option this season.

AAA says the increase in road travel comes as airfare prices rise and travelers try to avoid potential weather delays and airport crowds. 

As a result, rest stops and highways across the state are already seeing steady traffic. Travelers at a rest stop along Interstate 75 north of Tampa in Pasco County on Monday were stopping during their holiday drives.

One of them was Evan O’Shea, traveling with his family from Southwest Florida to Jacksonville and Northeast Florida to visit relatives. 

So far, he says the trip has been manageable.

“It kind of seems like traffic is more spread out,” O’Shea said. “If people started their holiday on the weekend, maybe they already hit the road. As of right now, it seems to be going pretty smooth, with a few congested spots.”

Another factor encouraging drivers this year is the cost of fuel. 

Gas prices are at four-year lows, averaging under $3 a gallon nationwide, easing the financial burden for families traveling long distances.

AAA and transportation officials say drivers should prepare for heavier congestion during morning and mid- to late-afternoon hours, especially on local roads, through Wednesday.

There is expected to be a brief traffic lull on Christmas Day, but roads will quickly fill again starting Friday and through the weekend, as travelers head back home.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time, and stay alert as the busy holiday travel period continues.