Motorists are being strongly advised to delay car travel until after 7pm today to avoid severe congestion, as the UK braces for an estimated 19.7 million car journeys on Boxing Day.
Festive Roads Set for Chaos
The AA has issued a stark warning for drivers planning trips on 26 December, predicting one of the busiest days of the festive period. Traffic volumes are expected to peak between 10am and 7pm, leading to calls for people to plan their travel outside these hours if possible.
Shaun Jones, an AA expert patrol, commented on the seasonal traffic patterns. "Throughout the festive season we see a real mix of activity on the roads," he said. "Visiting family, picking up shopping and getting back into work all keep people moving locally, even when the long-distance trips are few and far between."
Key Reasons for Travel and Congestion Hotspots
A survey of more than 10,000 AA members revealed the primary reasons for festive travel. Visiting family and friends was cited by 60-63% of respondents, making it the most common motive. This was closely followed by shopping trips (47-52%), while work commutes will account for 27-29% of journeys.
For Boxing Day specifically, the data shows that 49% of respondents plan a car journey of up to 50 miles, with a further 9% intending to travel even further.
The RAC and transport analytics firm Inrix have identified several major motorway sections likely to experience significant delays:
- The M25 clockwise from Junction 7 to Junction 16.
- The M25 anti-clockwise from Junction 17 to Junction 12.
- The M40 northbound from Junction 8A to Junction 10.
- The M1 southbound from Junction 16 to Junction 6.
- The M6 northbound from Junction 5 to Junction 10A.
A Brief Respite Before the New Year Rush
Jones noted that a temporary lull is expected. "New Year’s Day stands out as the quietest moment in the whole period, giving drivers a rare chance to avoid congestion," he explained.
However, the calm will be short-lived. "By January 2, traffic rebounds fast as work and school return, and breakdown call-outs rise sharply," Jones added, warning of a rapid return to busy roads after the holiday.
Drivers are encouraged to check their vehicles before setting out and to allow extra time for any essential journeys made during the peak periods today.
