Spike In Thanksgiving Travel

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Published: November 25, 2009

The day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year, and A.A.A. predicts more Americans will be driving this year.

More than 33 million Americans are expected to drive to their destination, which is 2 percent more than last year. A.A.A. says the increase in travelers shows consumer confidence is building despite the recession. But air travel is expected to decline by 6.7 percent.

Jimmy Steadman, who works as a service manager at Harreld Chevrolet in Canton, says the holiday season brings a spike in the number of customers bringing their cars in for maintenance. He says its better to fix problems before embarking on a long trip.

"You always want to check your engine belt....It runs everything nowadays: your alternator, your water pump," he said. Add break pads, battery, oil and fluid levels to the vehicle checklist.

Steadman says many drivers don't properly check their tire pressure or get their tires rotated and aligned, which can be bad for gas mileage.

"Preventative maintenance is one big thing," he said.

Whether traveling the roads, the rails, or in the sky, experts say the best advice is leave early and leave prepared. Amtrak is urging travelers to arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time. Add another 30 minutes for purchasing tickets and checking bags.