In only a few hours, Santa and his magical sleigh of reindeer are to set to start their journey around the world, delivering presents and toys to boys and girls.  If only the rest of us had a reindeer led sleigh to travel around on this weekend.

According to AAA, more than 103 million Americans are excepted to travel for Christmas and New Year’s, which is the most ever on record. That means 1.5 million more people are expected to travel in 2016 than last year.

AAA says the rush is due to a mix of factors, including cheap gas prices and people wanting to escape the cold weather for warmer destinations. Regardless of all the factors, the biggest reason is that most people just want to spend the holidays with their family and friends.

We know many of you will be packing your cars today and trying to get all of the last minute chores done so you can get on the road. We urge you to drive carefully and to avoid traveling overnight if possible, when deer and slick spots on the road may be harder to spot. Driving at night also runs into other factors, like trying to stay awake.

Anyone driving should also refrain from using their phone while behind the wheel. Even if it is family calling, we’re guessing they’d rather see you get where you’re going safely than to have to talk to you after a wreck, or worse.  If it’s really an important call or text, pull over. If it’s worth the time to do that, then the people you’re driving to see will understand.

We’re not mechanics, but we also recommend checking your oil, checking your tires, etc. Nobody wants to be broken down on Christmas Eve, hundreds of miles from home.

The roads will be busy this weekend, so a drive might take a little longer than usual. Airports will be even more crowded than usual and there will probably be delays.