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AAA anticipates 29% drop in travel for Christmas, New Year's

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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — You can expect to see far fewer people traveling for Christmas and New Year's, thanks to the pandemic.

According to AAA Travel, at least 34 million fewer travelers than last year’s holiday season will be traveling between December 23 and January 3. That's at least a 29% decrease in holiday travel.

“Public health concerns, official guidance not to travel, and an overall decline in consumer sentiment have encouraged the vast majority of Americans to stay home for the holidays,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel.

The CDC is urging Americans not to travel for the holidays this year, warning that travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19.

If you do plan to travel, experts say you should plan ahead, and understand the health guidance on your travel route.

The CDC recommends taking a COVID-19 test one to three days before travel and another three to five days after travel. Once you return, you should avoid all nonessential activities for seven days after travel.