A near record 44.6 million Americans are expected to travel 100 miles or more from home during the Christmas-New Year's holiday season.

The figure represents the second-highest number of travelers since 1990, according to AAA Auto Club South.

If you're one of the 35 million who plan to travel by car, be prepared to pay more at the gas pump.

AAA reports that Georgia gasoline prices for self-service unleaded rose 6 cents a gallon. The rise makes gas prices the highest for the holiday season since 1990.

“OPEC members have stated that they must work towards stabilizing the oil market,” said Yoli Buss, director of traffic safety for AAA Auto Club South. This means that we may begin to see gas prices stabilize as we head towards the New Year.”

According to the survey, 41 percent of travelers plan to visit a city, while 30 percent expect to go to a town or rural area.

Other popular destinations include:

•Ocean or beach, 12 percent.

•Mountains, 7 percent.

•Lakes, 2 percent.

•Them and amusement parks, 2 percent.

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