Driving Home for Christmas...

Plan your trip

It’s always advisable to plan ahead before making a longer journey, so you can prepare for any potential delays and avoid roadworks. No one wants to be stuck in lengthy traffic jams, especially on a dark winter evening, and particularly so if you’re travelling with children; nothing dampens the Christmas spirit quicker. If you’re planning to make a journey on Christmas Eve to stay with relatives, could you drive the evening before instead, when the roads are likely to be quieter.

Be careful the morning after

Drink driving is a serious issue at any time of the year, but it’s magnified at Christmas, as our social calendars fill up and we celebrate the season with friends and work colleagues. Be aware that the morning after a night out can be a dangerous situation. If you’ve been drinking alcohol the night before you may not be sober enough to drive the next morning.

Driving in bad road conditions

There’s a high possibility that road conditions could be difficult during Christmas. Wintry weather is unpredictable; snow and ice make for slippery surfaces, and rain and darkening skies can cause issues with visibility. Check the forecast before you travel - if severe wintry weather is predicted, you might have to re-think your plans. If the conditions are already treacherous, it’s best to drive only if you absolutely have to.

Keep your presents under wraps

If you’re driving around with a car laden with gifts for family, be aware that this is a security risk.

Keep the presents and items hidden away from view - lock them away in the boot - rather than exposed on rear seats or displayed invitingly on the parcel shelf.

.

Maintain the Christmas spirit

Remember, it’s the most wonderful time of the year - or it should be.

Try to enjoy the journey, and see it as part of the holiday experience rather than a long slog through heavy traffic. A couple of useful tips - if you’re travelling with children, make sure they have plenty of things to keep them entertained, such as snacks, games and movies; pop a Christmas film on.

Don’t forget the all-important Christmas playlist, either!

Make it fun, and the journey should fly by!