Here are the worst times to travel around Detroit for the holidays

Heading out of town to visit family or friends over the holidays? Expect the roadways to be busy this upcoming weekend. But Monday, Christmas Eve, is expected to be the busiest travel day around metro Detroit.

AAA and transportation analysis firm Inrix have released what they believe to be the busiest travel times in many U.S. cities. They predict that the busiest time to drive in metro Detroit will be December 24 from 2-3 p.m.

The busiest overall day for travel comes right before the holiday weekend. “With a record-level number of travelers hitting the road this holiday, drivers must be prepared for delays in major metro areas—with Thursday, December 20 being the nation’s worst day to travel,” says Trevor Reed, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Our advice is to avoid traveling during peak commuting hours. If schedules allow, leave bright and early, or after the morning commute.”

The good news, at least for Michigan drivers, is that gas prices are down this season. The latest average is $2.26 per gallon, a two-year low.

AAA expects that 102.1 million people will drive this holiday season, which is up 4.4 percent from last year.

The busiest days for flying are expected to be December 22, 23, and 26.