Map: The roads to expect the worst traffic jams this Christmas
The busiest days have also been revealed
Kass
The busiest days have also been revealed
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Drivers planning Christmas getaways have been warned of the worst expected areas.
The AA predicted that Friday December 20 will be the busiest day on the roads during the festive period, with an estimated 23.7 million drivers planning a trip.
That is more than the busiest Christmas getaway day of any year since the AA began recording data in 2010.
The joint second worst days for traffic jams over the 2024 festive period are expected to be Saturday December 21 and Monday December 23, each with 22.7 million drivers on the road.
So-called amber traffic warnings have been issued by the AA for all three days.
Mapped: the worst spots for congestion this Christmas:
Blocked traffic on the M25 (PA Media)The AA said Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday may help spread festive journeys this year, but could also means more days of long delays as many people will embark on a getaway from work on Friday December 20 followed by last-minute shopping trips and visits to friends and family.
Drivers are being advised to pack essentials such as warm clothing, food, water and a fully-charged phone in case their journey takes longer than expected.
Chris Wood, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “The Ghost of Christmas Past shows that each year, avoidable breakdowns snowball into miles of queues on the roads.
“Drivers can maintain the Christmas cheer by performing basic checks on their car before any journey.
“This includes topping up the windscreen wash and anti-freeze, checking your lights and adjusting tyre pressures for a full load if necessary.
“With people driving fewer miles, it means there will be more localised congestion as record numbers head out on the roads this festive period.
“The best way to ensure hassle-free journeys is to plan them well.
“Check the traffic reports before you leave and try to travel when it’s quieter if you can, or consider taking a different route to beat the jams.”
