AAA recently reported that approximately 42.5 million Americans will be traveling at least 50 miles to visit friends and family this Thanksgiving. This is 4 percent more than last year, and 90 percent of these travelers will be driving to their destinations.

"Driving AAA's projected increase in the number of Thanksgiving travelers is pent-up demand from Americans who may have foregone holiday travel the last three years," said Bill Sutherland, the vice president of AAA Travel Services. "As consumers weigh the fear of economic uncertainty and the desire to create lasting family memories this holiday, more Americans are expected to choose family and friends over frugality."

It is important for drivers to keep safety in mind as they pack their suitcases and get ready to hit the road this holiday season. The last thing you want is to break down on the side of the highway and need to spend your day trying to find an auto repair shop that will be open on the holiday. Before hitting the road you should check brakes and the car's tires to make sure they have enough tread and air pressure, which is especially important if you have to drive through any icy or snowy areas.