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AAA: Low gas prices mean more travelers for Memorial Day weekend

More than 1 million North Carolinians are expected to celebrate Memorial Day weekend with a road trip, the highest number in 10 years, according to AAA Carolinas.

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RALEIGH, N.C. — More than 1 million North Carolinians are expected to celebrate Memorial Day weekend with a road trip, the highest number in 10 years, according to AAA Carolinas.

Officials credit lower gas prices for the anticipated increase in travel. The average price for a gallon of gas in North Carolina is $2,55, the lowest for a Memorial Day weekend since 2009. Gas prices are up 20 cents in the last month, but drivers are paying more than $1 less than they were in May 2014.

"Following a harsh winter, many Carolinians are kicking off the summer driving season with a vacation getaway," David E. Parsons, president and CEO of AAA Carolinas, said in a statement. "With more Memorial Day travelers on the road, it's even more important to eliminate distractions behind the wheel. Stay off your phone and give yourself extra time to reach your destination."

The majority of North Carolinians are expected to take a holiday trip more than 50 miles from home, which Charleston, Orlando, Myrtle Beach and Pigeon Forge topping the list of driving destinations.

Air travel is also expected to be up this year. About 82,000 North Carolinians will board a plane over the weekend.

The most congested times for travel are expected to be Friday afternoon and evening, with traffic increasing earlier in the day than usual. as well as Monday evening, as travelers head back home.

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