Holiday Travel Will Be The Highest Since 2006

The drive to grandma's house might be a little more congested this Christmas season.

The California State Automobile Association predicts this holiday travel season will be the busiest since 2006.

CSAA officials expect 11.7 million Californians will travel 50 miles or more between Christmas and New Year's Day this year. That's an increase of 1.8 percent from the 2011 season.

More than 10 million Californians will drive during the holiday season. That's a 1.4 percent increase from last year.

Another 950,000 Californians will travel by air, a 4.4 percent increase from 2011.

Another 400,000 travelers will use other modes of transporation, including trains and boats. That's a 7.4 percent increase.

Family travel will make up 32 percent of total travelers during the year-end holidays. An average trip will consist of 838 miles. A family of four will spend an average of $1,08 during their travels.

Are you traveling this holiday season? Let us know in the comments.

If you do travel, here are some tips from CSAA.

AAA Winter Travel Survival Tips

Pack a cellular phone and car charger. Have emergency numbers available. Carry your AAA card for help in an emergency. For members who become stranded, AAA can be reached by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357).

If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It is an excellent shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to find you.

Stay focused. Avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone and adjusting the radio or other electronic devices.

AAA Air Travel Tips

Hit the web before the airport. Check in online up to 24 hours before flying and print your boarding pass at home. Many airlines offer discounts for prepaying during online check-in.

Pack light. Avoid checked bag fees and bring carry-on luggage only. Check with your airline on the maximum size of bags allowed in overhead bins. TSA regulations require the name on your airline ticket/boarding pass to exactly match your name as it is printed on your government-issued identification.

Make reservations for accommodations and rental cars ahead of time so prices can be locked in. Air fares are typically cheaper if arrangements are made early.

Liquids and gel carry-ons will only be allowed in containers no larger than 3 ounces and must be placed in a quart-size Ziploc clear plastic bag.