Christmas is a time for families to get together, and for many of us that involves some long-distance driving.

But Christmas is also a time when driving conditions are far from their best. The days are at their shortest, which means we’re doing more of our driving in the dark. And the weather’s getting colder, which means ice, snow and slippery roads.

It’s more important than ever to prepare carefully and drive safely. None of us wants to spend Christmas Eve, predicted to be the one of the busiest on the roads, broken down by the side of the road.

Plan your journey

Before you set off, it’s always worth mapping out your route, including choosing where you’re going to stop for a rest and fill up on fuel. Also check the weather forecast, and avoid driving in dangerous conditions if at all possible.

Check your vehicle

Make sure your lights, brakes, tyres and battery are all in good working order. Top up your windscreen wash, antifreeze and oil. And clear the whole windscreen of any snow or ice before you start driving.

Pack an emergency kit

You never know when you might get stuck on the roads due to snow, flooding or an accident up ahead. Pack accordingly, with all of the following:

• Warm clothes and boots
• A blanket
• A charger for your mobile phone
• Emergency food and a hot flask
• De-icer and a scraper
• A torch (make sure it works!)
• A tow rope
• A shovel
• A warning triangle

Beware of low sun

As well as being a season of snow and ice, winter is also the time of year when the sun is lowest in the sky. Be careful not to be blinded by the glare. Keep your windscreen especially clean, wear sunglasses when necessary and slow down if visibility is poor.

Find out more 

LeasePlan have put together a simple infographic for drivers on the simple winter vehicle maintenance checks to keep you mobile through the winter months.

Drive safely, and Merry Christmas from all of us at LeasePlan.