Dallas, Texas – As Thanksgiving approaches, Texas roads are witnessing a significant increase in traffic, not just from daily commuters but also from those embarking on their holiday journeys. This surge in road travel comes amid a backdrop of more affordable gas prices in the state.
Record Number of Passengers Hitting the Road
According to AAA, a staggering 3.7 million drivers in Texas are taking to the roads for the Thanksgiving holiday. This mix of regular commuters and holiday travelers is creating a noticeably busier traffic environment. The cheaper gas prices in Texas are believed to be a contributing factor, making road trips a more attractive option for many.
Among these travelers is Eric Nix, who is embarking on a six-hour drive to Lafayette, Louisiana. Nix, who plans to spend the holiday with his sister and brother-in-law, was seen preparing for his journey by adding air to his tires and filling up his gas tank. Despite the lengthy 12-hour round trip, Nix expressed a positive outlook: “I’m just going to bite the bullet and drive because seeing family is worth it,” he said.
AAA Texas has projected a 1% increase in road travel this Thanksgiving compared to last year. This uptick reflects a growing trend of people choosing to drive to their destinations for the holiday season.
