The Thanksgiving holiday is the heaviest traveled holiday each year, according to the American Automobile Association. Some need-to-know info to help you on the road and in the air:
IN THE AIR
Golden Triangle Regional Airport
· Flight info: www.gtra.com
Drive time to major airports, from Columbus:
Birmingham: 2 hours, 10 minutes
· Flight info: www.bhamintlairport.com
Jackson: 2 hours, 40 minutes
· Flight info: www.jmaa.com
Memphis: 3 hours, 30 minutes
· Flight info: www.mscaa.com
Atlanta: 4 hours, 30 minutes
· Flight info: www.atlanta-airport.com
· Be sure to allow yourself enough time for parking and check-in. Some airlines require check-in up to an hour before flight time.
Security screening
Tips to cut down on the hassle of security screening:
· Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry or other accessories that contain metal.
· Pack coats and jackets in your baggage when possible.
· Wear easy-to-remove footwear.
· De-clutter your carry-on bag.
· Keep any packed liquids, such as shampoo, in checked baggage.
ON THE ROAD
Gas prices
The lowest area prices for a gallon of regular gas, according to GasBuddy.com:
· Columbus: $2.72, Murphy USA, 1913-A Highway 45 North near 19th Avenue.
· Starkville: $2.68, Shell, 100 Highway 12 at Jackson Street.
Mississippi traffic conditions
Safe driving tips
· Get proper rest before traveling.
· Lighten the load; a heavier vehicle uses more gas.
· Place items inside the vehicle, not on the roof, to reduce wind drag and avoid using more gas.
· Drive at a consistent speed. Use cruise control if available. The steadier speed you drive, the more gas you will save.
· Travel during the day, not at night. Don”t drive into a rising or setting sun, wait until you can see well.
· Take breaks and rotate drivers if more than one driver is in the vehicle. Driving while drowsy is dangerous. Rest stops should be made every two hours.
· Plan entertainment for the kids if they are traveling with you. Use cards, maps, family games, sing-along CDs.
· Make sure you buckle up. Use your seat belt and appropriate child safety seats.
Sources: Google Maps, GasBuddy.com, American Automobile Association, U.S. Transportation Security Administration
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