This week is one of the busiest travel periods of each year, and many North Carolinians are hitting the road to see family and friends.

A record-breaking number of North Carolinians are projected to be traveling over the next two weeks. AAA of the Carolinas predicts most travelers will be driving to their destinations, with just over 3 million North Carolinians on the road. To be prepared for any increased congestion, AAA suggests drivers map their route in advance, check their vehicles before beginning a trip and avoid any distractions while driving.

The heavy traffic isn’t just expected on the roads. Raleigh-Durham International Airport says they’ve experienced record-breaking passengers this month, with a single-day record set on December 1. The busiest days are projected to be those before Christmas, adding to up to more than 1 million travelers using the airport in December alone.

RDU suggests passengers should aim to arrive at the airport, get through security and arrive at their gates earlier than normal with the increased traffic. They also request any gifts brought in carry on bags remain unwrapped to prevent delays at the security checkpoint.

The holidays are notoriously a season for increases in drunk driving. Survey data from DriversEd.com found 66 percent of Americans say they feel less safe on the roads around the holiday season, while 62 percent say they are generally more fearful of drunk drivers than hazardous road conditions over the holidays.

To prepare for this, the Governor’s Highway Safety Program has teamed up with law enforcement across the state for an increased Booze It and Lose It campaign. Through January 5, increased law enforcement will be patrolling the highways to stop impaired motorists and keep other drivers safe while on the road. The goal is that no matter where you’re going, you’re helping yourself and other get there safely.

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