Many travelers are heading home for the holidays on what's considered one of the busiest travel days of the year.
Thousands of people are packing up and heading out.
Many are heading home for the holidays.
"Just because it's my daughters first Christmas and to spend it with my parents," said Melissa Takahashi, who is traveling to Maui.
A trip long overdue.
"Oh it's over five years already," Takahashi said.
Jet setters are dishing out big bucks to spend the holiday abroad.
"Approximately $1,600 roundtrip," said Kahvi Sabatino.
Kahvi Sabatino is flying to Australia to spend Christmas and New Years with friends.
"It was my goal since January and I managed to pull it off I guess," Sabatino said. "Waitressing helps...tips."
AAA forecasts more than 92 million people will hit the road this holiday season an increase of about 3-percent compared to last year.
Despite rising gas prices some say the cost to travel has stayed the same, giving them other opportunities.
"Well we are probably gonna do some sight seeing and then we may do the road to Hana and then of course lots of shopping," said Cynthina Neasman, visiting from North Carolina.
A sign that the economy is on its way toward recovery.
"Oh absolutely, versus last year definitely the malls are jammed," said Richie Taito of Kauai.
Hawaiian Airlines says they have added 40-45 extra inter-island flights to accommodate the passenger load and its clear kamaaina of all shapes and sizes are seizing the opportunity.
"Any excuse we can come up with to come over and visit for a little bit absolutely," said Taito.
