Hundreds of thousands of people take to roads, rail, buses and planes today as the Christmas travel rush gets into full swing.
More than 860,000 passengers are expected to travel through the State's main airport in Dublin over the next two weeks, with extra crowds also expected in Cork, Shannon and Belfast.
The number of passengers travelling this Christmas season is up 10 per cent over the same period last year.
Today will be the busiest day before Christmas with over 65,000 passengers travelling while Friday January 4th will be the busiest day after Christmas with more than 60,000 passengers expected to travel through Dublin airport.
Airport authorities have warned passengers not to bring Christmas crackers as hand luggage as they are not allowed through the passenger security screening area. Wrapped presents may have to be opened by security staff if brought on as hand luggage.
The Dublin Airport Authority said the departures road was a set-down area only and that pick-up was not permitted, adding this would be strictly enforced.
AA Roadwatch has warned motorists to take extra care this Christmas when out driving.
With the busiest periods for traffic expected to be between early afternoon and evening on Friday and all day Christmas Eve, motorists are advised to avoid these times.