This year’s four-day Thanksgiving holiday weekend reflects a steady increase of Californians projected to travel since 2009, according to the latest travel survey from AAA.

AAA Northern California’s travel forecast predicts that more than 5.7 million Californians plan to travel 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving holiday celebration. This represents a slight increase of 0.6 percent when compared to last year’s figures.

“A steady pace of consumer confidence continues to motivate budget-conscience Californians to get behind the wheel or board an airplane to gather with family and friends,” said AAA Northern California spokesperson Cynthia Harris. “While many remain cautious about the economy and their personal finances, lower gas prices and a higher level of consumer optimism have contributed to increase in holiday excursions.”

According to AAA, car travel will lead the way with more than 4.9 million Californians projected to drive during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. This represents a 0.7 percent increase when compared to last year’s figures.

AAA projects that more than 616,000 holiday travelers will fly, which is a decrease of -0.4 percent when compared to 2014.

Approximately 180,000 state residents are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, such as boats or trains, an increase of 0.6 percent when compared to last year’s figures.

Nationally, AAA forecasts that more than 47 million people will travel 50 miles or more during the four-day weekend, a 0.6 percent increase compared to last year’s travel statistics. 

The AAA Leisure Travel Index reports that prices at AAA Three Diamond lodgings are expected to remain relatively flat, with an average price of $155 per night. AAA Two Diamond lodgings are expected to be four percent higher, with an average room costing $118 per night.

This Thanksgiving weekend, airfares will decrease by 10 percent, landing at an average of $169 roundtrip across the top 40 domestic flight routes, according to the AAA Leisure Travel Index. 

Car rental rates will average $60 for the holiday weekend, up eight percent from last year. The expected primary activities this holiday weekend will be dining, shopping and visiting family and friends.

Because of heightened security measures taking place in major airports due to the recent terrorist bombings in Europe, AAA Travel advises worldwide caution for U.S. travelers. U.S. citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.

AAA safety travel tips

– AAA Travel partners are monitoring the situation in Paris and Europe very closely. At this time, there have been no reports of interruption of service or cancellation of departures to the region.
   
– AAA has not seen significant cancellations or departure from travel plans at this time. Travelers should however, always stay informed and remain vigilant when traveling.

– Many providers are allowing travelers to cancel or alter itineraries with no additional fee.

– Travelers with plans to visit Paris or European destinations are advised to consult with their travel providers (tour operators, cruise lines and airlines) for any changes to travel plans or requirements.

– Travelers are advised to travel with an additional form of identification such as an International Driving Permit, which can be obtained at one of AAA’s more than 1,000 branch offices across North America. Travelers should keep their passport and/or IDP on their person at all times while traveling.

– Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or nearest Consulate to contact them in the case of an emergency.

– Flights and rail connections to Paris and the rest of France are operating. However, allow for longer delays at airports and metro stations due to police checks.

AAA air travel tips

– Book a nonstop. If you fly direct, you won’t get stuck in a connecting city.

– Fly mornings. Try to book the first flight of the day. Delays tend to worsen later in the day.

– Leave enough time for connections. Schedule at least one hour for a connection. Give yourself more time if you have to change planes and go through security again.

– Use small airports. Avoid airline hubs whenever possible. Secondary airports are usually less congested and less prone to delays.

– Prepare for increased scrutiny at security checkpoints: Wear shoes that are easily slipped off and on, place computers and electronic items in their own bin, wear jewelry sparingly, do not take on wrapped gifts, and remember to put liquids in a quart plastic bag.

Projections are based on research conducted by IHS Global Insight. The Boston-based economic research and consulting firm teamed with AAA earlier this year as part of an agreement to jointly analyze travel trends during the major holidays.