Despite higher gas prices, Southern California residents are preparing to hit the road in droves for the year‑end holidays.
Holiday Travel Numbers
The Auto Club of Southern California projects that 10.2 million people will travel ahead of Christmas. Of those, 87% (about 8.9 million) will drive, while roughly 945,000 will fly. Domestic round‑trip airfares are 7% higher than last year, with an average ticket price of $900.
Fuel Costs and Road Conditions
While gasoline prices nationwide have eased, Southern Californians are paying 10 to 20 cents more per gallon than the same period last year. The increased traffic will strain the region’s highways, especially in desert and mountain corridors.
Heaviest Congestion
- Friday, Dec. 26 is projected to be the worst traffic day, with the heaviest congestion in the late afternoon.
- The 10 Freeway between Los Angeles and Palm Springs will see the most traffic, with travel times expected to rise 60% to 90% on Saturday, Dec. 20.
- Travelers heading from San Diego to Palm Springs via the 15 Freeway will also experience significant delays.
Optimal Travel Windows
To avoid peak congestion, the Auto Club recommends the following windows:
- Saturday, Dec. 20: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 21: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Monday, Dec. 22: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, Dec. 23: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 26: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Alternatively, traveling after 9 p.m. on Saturday, before 11 a.m. on Sunday, before 10 a.m. on Monday and Tuesday, or before 11 a.m. on Friday can reduce delays. Christmas Eve and Christmas are expected to see minimal traffic.
Popular Destinations
The most sought‑after domestic spots include Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Anaheim, and Honolulu. International travelers are heading to Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, and San Jose in Costa Rica.
Key Takeaways
- 10.2 million holiday trips are projected, with 87% by car.
- Gasoline prices are 10‑20 cents higher per gallon than last year.
- Friday, Dec. 26, and the 10 Freeway will experience the worst congestion.
Southern California residents should plan ahead, choose off‑peak travel times, and be prepared for higher fuel costs as they head into the holiday season.
Hi, I’m Ethan R. Coleman, a dedicated journalist and content creator at newsoflosangeles.com — your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and stories from Los Angeles and beyond.
With over 7 years of experience in digital media, I specialize in reporting on breaking news, local culture, community affairs, and impactful events shaping the City of Angels. My passion lies in telling stories that matter — stories that inform, engage, and empower readers.
At newsoflosangeles.com, I focus on delivering accurate, unbiased, and timely content while keeping our audience at the heart of every story. Whether it’s the latest city developments, cultural highlights, or human-interest stories, I aim to bring clarity, context, and credibility to every piece I publish.
When I’m not reporting, you’ll likely find me exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, meeting locals, and discovering new stories worth telling.
Stay connected, stay informed — and thanks for being part of our community at newsoflosangeles.com.
