Here are the best & worst times to drive over the Christmas holidays in SC

AAA is forecasting a record-breaking number of holiday travelers this season, with over 119 million Americans expected to hit the roads, skies and rails between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1. This is an increase of 3 million travelers from last year and the highest travel volume since 2019.

South Carolina is no exception, with many locals planning trips to see family, head to warmer destinations, or explore the state’s scenic spots, with Charleston being one of the top 10 destination spots for the holidays this year.

This jump in travel volume is being driven by consumer spending as inflation is starting to slow down.

Key highlights for South Carolina travelers

Record Holiday Travel: AAA predicts that over 119 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this holiday season, with nearly 107 million of them taking road trips.

Gas Prices & Road Trips: South Carolina’s gas prices are expected to be competitive with last year, hovering around $2.74 per gallon, which is slightly lower than the $2.86 average from last December.

This could make driving a more attractive option for families planning holiday road trips. Popular destinations for South Carolinians include Charleston, Myrtle Beach and other regional hot spots.

Air Travel: Nearly 8 million people are expected to fly this holiday season, including many from South Carolina airports like Charleston International.

While flights will be busy, the average cost for a domestic ticket is $830, which is 4% more expensive than last year. International flights are higher, averaging around $1,630.

Cruise Travel: Cruises are another popular choice for families this time of year, and bookings are up 37%. Some South Carolinians are opting for cruises from Florida or nearby ports in Charleston, with the Caribbean and Bahamas topping the list of popular destinations.

Travel tips for South Carolina drivers

Expect Crowded Roads: With an extra 2.5 million people on the road, traffic is expected to be heavy, especially on Dec. 21 and 22.

AAA recommends travelers plan ahead and allow extra time for trips, especially on I-26, I-95 and other major highways.

Here are the best and worst times to travel by car during the holidays, according to AAA.

Remember Safety First: Always follow posted speed limits, take breaks every 2 hours on long trips and ensure you are well-rested before driving.

If you’re planning a road trip, expect the busiest times to be in the late afternoon and evening hours, especially as Christmas approaches.

Drivers in areas like Charleston, Columbia and Greenville should be prepared for some delays, but those traveling early in the day or later at night will most likely avoid the congestion.

What is AAA?

The American Automobile Association (AAA) was started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility.

Today, AAA is a privately held not-for-profit national member association and service organization with over 60 million members in the United States and Canada. It is one of North America’s largest membership organizations and provides trusted financial and insurance services. AAA delivers roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their vacations and offers exclusive member discounts and benefits.

Anna Claire Miller

The Island Packet

Anna Claire Miller is a former journalist for the Island Packet