Cincinnati, OH (December 21, 2018)— As millions prepare to hit the road—whether by car, plane, train or cruise to celebrate the holiday season, AAA sending out one last list and asking travelers to check it twice before leaving for their destination.

“The holiday travel season is in full swing as many are preparing to gather with friends and family,” said Jenifer Moore, AAA spokeswoman. “No matter how you are traveling over the next few days, it is important to remember to always be prepared in the event of a breakdown or delay.”

Road Travel

Gas Prices: Pump prices continue to fall in Ohio and across the nation.

• The current average price for regular gas in Ohio is $2.14, 23-cents less than a month ago.
• At $2.35, the national gas price average continues to drive toward the cheapest pump prices seen during the month of December since 2016.
• AAA members can fill up for even less at Shell through the Fuel Rewards® Program by saving up to five cents per gallon through December 31, 2019.
• An added benefit, members registering for the first time in the Fuel Rewards® program will save 25 cents per gallon on their first fill-up through January 31, 2019. AAA members just need to sign-up at AAA.com/Shell to reap the benefits of this new Discount and Reward program.

Traffic: As the long holiday weekend gets underway, commuters, shoppers and travelers will all converge on area roadways causing traffic backups and congestion. 

• Travelers are urged to avoid traveling during peak commuting hours.
• Leave bright and early or after the morning commute.
• Pack your patience and fill up the vehicle’s gas tank in case you get stuck in traffic for long periods of time.

Roadside Rescue: AAA anticipates it will come to the aid of more than 14,000 stranded Ohio motorists during the year-end holiday period.

• Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires will be the leading reasons motorists will experience car trouble.
• AAA recommends motorists take their vehicle to a trusted repair facility to perform any needed maintenance before heading out.
• Oil changes, fluid level checks, battery tests and tire inspections go a long way toward reducing the chances of a breakdown.

Is Your Membership Up-to-Date?: Make sure your AAA membership is up to date and review coverage level options to ensure lifestyle needs are met in case of a roadside emergency.

• AAA members and customers can take advantage of a special holiday discount on new, renewal, or gift memberships until Dec. 31, 2018 with the code SAFETY by calling 1-866-MEMBERS (1-866-636-2377) or visiting a local AAA office. 

Emergency Kit: According to a AAA survey, more than 40 percent of motorists do not carry an emergency kit in their vehicle.

• Every vehicle should be equipped with a well-stocked emergency kit that includes a mobile phone and car charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a basic toolkit with tire pressure gauge and adjustable wrench, windshield washer solution, jumper cables and emergency flares or reflectors, drinking water, extra snacks and food for travelers and pets.

Air Travel

Taking (a Last Minute) Flight: A record number of travelers will fly to their holiday destinations with many departing this weekend. 

• Looking for a last minute ticket to visit mom? You may encounter high prices and limited availability.
• People who fly on Christmas Eve consistently pay the lowest price per ticket, $512 on average. Few choose to do so, however, as this is the lightest travel day around the Christmas holiday.
• AAA travel agents are assisting members with last minute travel needs at area AAA offices.

Crowds, Weather, Delays, Oh my!:  Busy airports and the potential for inclement weather over the next few days across the country may impact travel.

• Check your flight status before leaving for the airport. Consider signing up for text or mobile app alerts from your airline for the latest flight information.
• Arrive two hours before your flight departure to allow enough time to get through TSA security screening.
• Check with your travel agent and travel providers for cancellation policies and itinerary changes.
• Prepare all necessary documents (boarding pass, ID, passport, etc.) while in the checkpoint line to prevent delays at the podium.
• When flying, bring essentials in your carry-on bag such as a change of clothing and medication in case travel schedules change.

Gifting on the Go: If you are flying with gifts for your loved one, follow these tips to ensure they get to the intended recipients:

• Do not wrap them prior to arriving at the airport for your departure flight. Gifts that are taped in wrapping paper may be subjected to additional screening by TSA.
• TSA suggests travelers use gift bags or wrap the gift upon arrival to your destination.
• Some airports may offer gift wrapping in concourses beyond TSA check points. Check with your local airport for additional information.

Additional Traffic Safety Tips

• Buckle up. Have everyone in your vehicle wear their seat belts at all times.
• Map your route: Plan ahead and map out your travel/seek an alternative route if needed (AAA travel counselors are assisting members at area AAA offices).
• Don’t drive distracted: Stay focused and eliminate distractions such as cellphones.
• Move over: It is the law in all 50 states. Be mindful of construction and emergency workers on the roads.
• Never drive while impaired. Always plan ahead to designate a non-drinking driver before any party or celebration begins.

AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 59 million members nationwide and more than three million members in Ohio.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  AAA is a non-stock, non-profit corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit www.AAA.com

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