The festive season is all about seeing family and friends, but getting to them safely is just as important. With busy roads and unpredictable weather, planning ahead can make your journey more secure and stress-free.
Here’s 9 Tips for Safe Christmas Travel in 2025.
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Plan Around Peak Travel Times
Last Christmas, the UK saw an estimated 29.3 million car journeys between 18 and 24 December. This is the highest festive-season total since 2013, putting extra pressure on roads nationwide [1]. And 2025 may be no different.
The busiest days are expected to be Saturday 20 December, Sunday 21 December, and Monday 23 December. If you can, travel outside these windows or set off early to avoid long delays.
Tip: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and alternative routes.
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Check Your Route and Congestion Hotspots
Certain areas are expected to be more congested during the holidays. Watch out for:
- M4/M5 near Bristol
- M25 around Heathrow
- M5/M6 near Birmingham
- M60 near Manchester
- M1 around Sheffield
Plan ahead and set your maps or sat-nav to choose quieter A-roads if time allows.
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Follow Winter Driving Practices
Cold weather brings extra challenges. Follow these handy tips for driving in frost, ice, snow and fog:
- Start driving in second gear on snow or ice for better traction.
- Keep larger gaps between vehicles and avoid sudden braking. This means a 2 second gap at absolute minimum, preferably longer.
- Use dipped headlights during the day and fog lights only when visibility is poor. Dazzling other drivers puts you both in danger.
- Maintain smooth steering to reduce skidding.
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Pack a Winter Safety Kit
If the worst happens and you break down, make sure you aren’t caught out cold and stranded. Don’t leave home without:
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Torch and spare batteries
- Warm clothing and blankets
- Snacks and water
- Power bank for your phone
- First-aid kit
- Shovel or traction aids for snow
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Electric Vehicle (EV) Winter Tips
If you’re driving an EV this Christmas:
- Precondition your car while plugged in to save battery.
- Expect 10–30% range reduction in cold weather and plan extra charging stops.
- Use eco mode, heated seats instead of cabin heaters, and regenerative braking for efficiency.
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Share Travel Plans Safely
Let someone know your route and estimated arrival time before you leave and make sure your phone is fully charged before you set off. This keeps you safe and ensures someone can check in if needed.
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Be Aware of Shopping Season
December car parks, especially in a shopping centre can be extra chaotic. Stay calm and:
- Avoid peak shopping times (weekends before Christmas).
- Keep valuables out of sight and lock your car.
- Be patient, rushing increases accident risk.
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Monitor Weather Warnings
Check the Met Office alerts for snow and ice warnings. If amber or yellow warnings are issued, consider delaying your trip or taking extra precautions.
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Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Travel
Before you set off, make sure your car is ready for the journey. Cold weather can put extra strain on your vehicle, so these checks are essential:
✔ Check your tyre pressure
Cold temperatures cause tyre pressure to drop, which affects handling and fuel efficiency. Ensure all tyres, including the spare, are properly inflated. You’ll find the correct pressure in your car’s handbook, inside the driver’s door, or on the fuel flap. Check out Vavista’s Ultimate Guide to Car Tyres for more advice.
✔ Test your battery
Batteries work harder in winter. If yours is over three years old, get it tested or replaced before you hit the road. Unsure how? Here’s a handy guide on testing your battery at home.
✔ Check fluid levels
Check your car’s oil, coolant, brake fluid, and screen wash (use winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing). These quick checks can be done at home, see our step-by-step guide.
✔ Inspect your brakes
Brakes are critical in icy conditions. If you notice sponginess or unusual noises, have them checked by a mechanic before travelling.
Follow these 9 tips for safe Christmas travel and your christmas journeys don’t have to be stressful. Wherever you’re headed, stay alert, stay warm, and have a wonderful holiday season!
If you enjoyed this blog, check out our blog about drink driving: “I only had a few drinks last night, am I OK to drive?”.
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[1] A Record-Breaking Christmas: 29 Million Car Journeys Expected Across the UK – Northern Ireland Connected
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