Many western Connecticut residents began driving to their holiday destinations on Friday.

According to AAA, 97 million people will be traveling through Jan.1, a 3 percent increase from last year.

And AAA says not even higher gas prices are slowing people down. In fact, officials say the strong economy and growing consumer confidence have fueled holiday travel all year long.

Drivers say if you want to see family for the holidays, you have no choice but to pay at the pump.

State police say there will be extra patrols on the highways during the holidays. They advise people to be aware and take it slow.