Thanksgiving holiday travel records are set to be broken this week in Santa Clarita and beyond, with the most people on the move since 2005, according to officials.

About 54.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more away from home this Thanksgiving, a 4.8 percent increase over last year, according to the American Automobile Association.

“Consumers have a lot to be thankful for this holiday season: higher wages, more disposable income and rising levels of household wealth,” said Bill Sutherland, AAA travel senior vice president. “This is translating into more travelers kicking off the holiday season with a Thanksgiving getaway, building on a positive year for the travel industry.”

Although drivers are expected to pay the highest Thanksgiving gas prices in four years, paying 31 cents more than last year, people will take to the nation’s roads, skies, rails and waterways, according to AAA officials.

“Motorists have become accustomed to this year’s more expensive gas prices and won’t let higher fuel costs deter them from taking Thanksgiving road trips,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA gas price expert.

The vast majority of travelers will be in vehicles, with approximately 48.5 million people hitting the road, according to officials.

Experts are advising those who will travel by car to depart early Thursday morning and return home early Sunday morning. The heaviest travel times will be Wednesday afternoon and Sunday evening.

Because of this, travelers are being asked to also pack their patience because traffic will be expected, according to Caltrans officials.

“Plan ahead and give yourself ample time for travel, slow traffic or unexpected stops,” said Caltrans officials. “Make sure you have completed a vehicle maintenance check.”

Caltrans also offered other tips to ensure an easier travel experience, such as:

• Check the brakes, windshield wipers, air pressure and tire treads of the vehicle.
• Make sure you have fuel and proper fluids.
• Be courteous to other travelers; don’t engage in hostile driving techniques.
• Place all distractions out of sight and keep your eyes on the road.

“Family and friends are awaiting your safe arrival,” said Caltrans officials.

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