The AA said this Christmas could be the busiest on record for UK roads, and advised drivers to allow extra time to complete their journeys.
The insurance company said most people driving during the festive period travelled less than 100 miles, meaning congestion is likely around motorway interchanges and retail destinations.
Some of the interchanges expected to be hotspots for congestion near and outside of London include the M3/M25 interchange in Surrey, the M25 around Heathrow and the M25 around Bluewater in Kent.
Outside of London, travellers should expect congestion in areas including on the M8 between Edinburgh and Glasgow, at the M5/M6 interchange near Birmingham, the M1 J10–15a in the East and South Midlands, and the M4 around Cardiff and Newport.
The M27 will be closed between Junction 9 (Whiteley/Park Gate) and Junction 11 (Fareham East/Gosport) from Christmas Eve to 4 January, so anyone travelling in Hampshire should plan alternative routes.
AA patrol expert Shaun Jones said patience behind the wheel “will be your best present this year”.
“Plan ahead, check your route, and allow extra time,” he said.
