Thanksgiving a week away but travel starts early

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Thanksgiving may be a week away but many holiday travelers are getting a head start.

AAA Mid-Atlantic projects more travelers this year than any year since 2007. One possible drive for the expected 4.5 percent hike is the drop in gas prices.

"With gas prices under $3, people are putting more money back in family budgets. They feel better about their financial situation and maybe want to take that trip this Thanksgiving where may have held off in years past," said Jim Lardear, AAA Mid-Atlantic.

Whitney Cofer says cheaper gas is liberating. She is contemplating seeing family in Brooklyn.

"Definitely not driving to New York beause the tolls are more expensive so I am looking to get either on Amtrak or take the bus up there," said Cofer, College Park, Maryland.

Travel agent Suzanne Shank says Thanksgiving remains the family centered holiday.

Most likely the travel is back to the family home, though there can be warm weather exceptions.

"Thanksgiving is family - that cozy smell the Turkey cooking with family. Unless you are going to an island with your family then you probably have lobster," said Shank with a laugh.

Oh to be so lucky.

At 30th Street, no trains to the Caribbean of course but they are expecting big crowds next week.

Amtrak is adding 64 extra trains for Tuesday through Sunday.

Travelers who could, got an early start today.

"I don't work on Friday and I wanted to miss the rush. It gives me an extra couple of days down there," said Arlene Spector, Bensalem.

"Yes to avoid the crowd. So far so good, it's not grid locked yet," said Gwendolyn Sine, New York.