Around 46 million people will be on the roads for holiday travel by the end of 2014, according to figures released by the AAA. That's an increase of more than 4 percent over the 2013 holiday season. The take-home message, though, is that gas costs will be an average of 46 cents less per gallon than in 2013. Prices haven't been any lower since 2009.

You could even be able to spend more on presents, but some analysts think that higher retail costs could offset any spending gains. Regardless, you will have the option to drive more on your fuel budget than you would have been able to otherwise.

If you're on the roads for any amount of time, though, the specialists at Christian Brothers in Norman, Norman recommend getting a wintertime auto checkup before you head out. With more traveling, your risk of dealing with things such as ice and snow increases, making this especially important.

Come by, and we would be happy to assist with the following recommendations by the Car Care Council:

• Check the alternator, starter and battery
• Check the brakes
• Check for health-threatening carbon monoxide leaks
• Test the thermostat and heater
• Check your automobile's recommended schedule for things such as spark plug replacement
• Check the tires
• Get winter weight” oil
• Check the headlamps for winter driving
• Flush and clean the engine cooling and antifreeze

You should also do things such as stocking the car with food, warm clothes and scrapers. Finally, our techs say you should never let your fuel get too low so the fuel lines don't crack.