Around 46 million people will be in cars for the holidays by the end of the year, according to figures released by the AAA. That's an increase of more than 4 percent over the 2013 holiday season. The big news, though, is that petroleum prices will be an average of 46 cents less per gallon than a year ago. We haven't seen these kind of prices since 2009.

The savings could be high enough that you could crank up your holiday spending for things like presents and parties, but experts think that higher retail costs could hamper that. Regardless, you can still drive more on your gas budget than you probably expected. If nothing else, that could cut down your stress so you can see loved ones more easily.

If you're traveling at all, though, the car care experts at Christian Brothers in Land O' Lakes, FL recommend getting a wintertime auto checkup soon. The more you drive, your likelihood of dealing with ice and snow increases.

If you stop in, we can assist with the following:

• Flush and clean the engine cooling and antifreeze systems
• Check the headlamps for winter driving
• Get an oil change
• Kick those tires and check tread
• Check the spark plugs
• Test the thermostat and heater
• Check for health-threatening CO2 leaks
• Test the brakes
• Check the alternator, starter and battery

There are also steps that you should take by yourself, including stocking the car with emergency food, clothing and tools. We also recommend that you never let your fuel tank empty fully in order to prevent frozen fuel lines.