Many people travel for the holidays to visit family and friends or take vacations, and the latest projections from AAA indicate the number of those who will be taking to the roads or skies this year has increased compared to the 2011 holiday season. Across the board, AAA estimates there will be approximately 93.3 million people who have end-of-year travel plans, which is 1.6 percent higher than the 91.8 million who traveled last year. The vast majority (90 percent) of these people will be reaching their destination by automobile, and the average excursion is expected to be around 760 miles, round-trip.

"The year-end holiday season remains the least volatile of all travel holidays, as Americans will not let economic conditions of high gas prices dictate if they go home for the holidays or kick off the New Year with a vacation," said Beth Mosher, director of public affairs for AAA Chicago. "Primary economic factors all show modest improvement from last year, and AAA is projecting an increase in the number of Americans stuffing their stockings with airline tickets and hotel reservations."

Those planning to take road trips this month should make sure their cars are in good condition before they hit the road. Everything from checking tire pressure and topping off fluids to getting a routine tune up and addressing repairs should be part of the pre-travel checklist. Drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can bring their cars to NJ State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center, which is open to the public. The automotive experts can handle everything from oil changes to replacements and repairs to ensure travelers reach their destinations safely.