The AAA studies these holiday issues on a national level and released information last week predicting that about 46 million people throughout the country plan to travel this season. That's up 4 percent over the 2013 holiday season. The big news, though, is that petroleum prices will be an average of 46 cents lower per gallon than in 2013. We haven't seen the likes of it since 2009.

The savings could be big enough that you could crank up your Christmas spending for things like gifts and celebrations, but economists say higher retail prices could offset any spending gains. Nevertheless, you will have the option to drive more on your fuel budget than you might have thought.

If you're traveling at all, however, the specialists at Christian Brothers in Southaven, MS recommend performing a holiday driving auto checkup soon. The more you drive, your chances of having to cope with things such as icy weather and storms goes up.

Stop by our shop in Southaven and we would be happy to help with the following recommendations by the Car Care Council:

• Clean and flush the antifreeze and cooling
• Do a headlight check for winter driving conditions
• Get an oil change
• Kick those tires and check tread
• Check the spark plugs
• Test the thermostat and heater
• Check for risky carbon monoxide leaks
• Check the brakes
• Check the battery and alternator

You should also do things such as stocking the car with food, warm clothes and scrapers. Finally, our techs say you should never let your fuel tank empty fully in order so the fuel lines don't crack.