The AAA analyzes these holiday issues on a national level and released information last week predicting that about 46 million people in the U.S. plan to travel this season. That's an increase of more than 4 percent over 2013. The best part, though, is that fuel prices will be about 46 cents lower per gallon than last year. We haven't seen these kind of prices since 2009.

You could even be able to spend more on presents, but economists think that higher retail costs could offset any spending gains. Nevertheless, you can still travel more on your fuel budget than you might have thought. If nothing else, that could cut down your stress so you can meet up with family and friends more easily.

If you're traveling at all, however, the mechanics at Christian Brothers in Mooresville, NC recommend getting a seasonal auto checkup first. The more you drive, your likelihood of dealing with snowy conditions increases, making this extra important.

Come by, and we will help with the following:

• Check the battery and charging system
• Test the braking system
• Test for risky CO2 leaks
• Test the thermostat and heater
• Make sure you're on schedule for spark plugs
• Kick those tires and check tread
• Get an oil change
• Test and re-aim lights for winter driving
• Clean and flush the antifreeze and cooling systems

There are also steps that you can perform on your own, including stocking the car with an extra set of warm clothes and boots, food and a flashlight, cables and simple tools and scrapers or snow brushes. We also recommend that you never run on an empty tank so the fuel lines don't crack.