How many people will be on the road this Christmas?

According to the AA, 23 million journeys will take place on Friday 20 December. Known as ‘Frantic Friday’, it will see so many Brits driving home for Christmas as they visit their loved ones or enjoy well-deserved festive breaks. How many of these journeys will be soundtracked by the Chris Rea classic is currently unknown…

In this post, we’ll look at some of the busiest roads in the UK, just how many hours they may add to your journey and why you should Tempcover It when it comes to your Christmas travels…

We’ll also offer hints and tips on beating the traffic so you can have one less stress during the busy festive season.

Why are Christmas roads so busy?

As Shakin’ Stevens once sang, Christmas is a ‘time for parties and celebration, people dancing all night long. Time for presents and exchanging kisses, time for singing Christmas songs’. Who better to do all of this with than your nearest and dearest? Whether people are travelling to see family or friends - or even heading off for a peaceful break away - the result is busy Christmas roads.

The AA is predicting 2024 to be busier than ever, with an amber traffic warning in place for Friday 20, Saturday 21 and Monday 23 December.

Their research also reveals many drivers will be staying more local, with most travelling less than 50 miles.

How many people are expected to travel this Christmas?

We all know there will be more traffic but just how busy will the roads be this Christmas?

This AA poll suggests the following amount of journeys in the build-up to Christmas:

• Friday 20 December 2024 - 23.7 million
• Saturday 21 December 2024 - 22.7 million
• Sunday 22 December 2024 - 21.3 million
• Monday 23 December 2024 - 22.7 million
• Tuesday 24 December (Christmas Eve) 2024 - 21.6 million

This is a significant increase on the AA's prediction of a maximum of 16.5 million journeys over the equivalent period last year.

It will probably come as no surprise that traffic is expected to build up around the M4, M25 and A303 over these few days. Tempcover’s research* has also discovered the following:

• Journeys through London lose the highest number of hours to traffic delays - an average of 99 over the whole of 2023 - with the festive season bringing more numbers into the nation’s capital.
• Reading is set to be the UK’s slowest-moving traffic hotspot with an average speed of just 13 miles per hour on the local A roads.
• If you want to avoid traffic, Telford is the place to be. The average 40-mile journey from the Shropshire town will only lose 12.3 minutes over the festive period.

What challenges do drivers face on busy roads at Christmas?

The road delays and traffic congestion can affect the way drivers feel. Increased levels of tiredness and irritation can lead to accidents. It’s important to remain as calm as possible and be prepared for the worst when it comes to travelling over Christmas. More cars on the road means a higher risk of breakdowns and accidents

• Plan ahead - Have a look at Google Maps to check your route and any alternatives that may work in your favour, should you hit traffic. Think about what time you want to leave and when the peak travel will be to avoid traffic.
• Perform your winter car check - Before setting off on your journey, you should examine all aspects of your car. Do you have enough fuel, screenwash and are your tyres at the legal limit? Don’t forget to pack a survival kit amongst your presents.
• Drive safely - Sort your Christmas playlist, stay safely within the speed limits and prepare for the unexpected. Keep your head while driving and make sure you have plenty of snacks, drinks and warm clothing in case the worst happens. Just remember, you will still get there - and think of all the presents, food and mince pies waiting for you when you do eventually get there.

Tempcover It! this Christmas

Facing one of these long journeys and want to share the driving? Temporary car insurance covers you to do just this - with no impact on any existing no claims discount.

Did somebody forget the cranberry sauce so you need to borrow a car once you’re at your destination? Our short-term car insurance also allows any of your party to do this, providing they meet some simple acceptance criteria.

Temporary car insurance is fast, flexible and perfect for any short-term needs ahead of Santa Claus coming to town. Wherever you’re travelling this Christmas, make sure you stay safe and stress free.