Travel tips to avoid disruptions

Nearly 14 million drivers are expected to hit the road in the final weekend before Christmas, marking a new record, according to automotive group RAC.

Disruption to some train services is also expected due to engineering works, adding to road congestion, while windy weather has led to the cancellation of some ferry services and flights.

So how can you make your journey – whether by road, train, plane or ferry – as smooth as possible?

The RAC says that overall the impact of the Christmas getaway will mean many roads “will be busier” than on an average weekend.

The five hours between 1pm and 6pm on Saturday were expected to be the busiest period on the roads – but many more journeys will be made given Christmas falls on a weekday.

The AA advises people to come prepared with plenty of fuel, charge their phones and check tires and lights.

He also suggests packing food and warm clothes in case you get stuck in a traffic jam.

“Check traffic reports before you leave and try to travel when it's quieter if you can, or consider taking a different route to avoid traffic jams,” says the AA's Chris Wood.

Travel expert Julian Bray advises if you're traveling by road, “go earlier and come back later” as rail works taking place over the festive period will also increase traffic.

Network Rail advises passengers to check their trip before traveling.

Some services such as West Midlands Railway are operating a modified service due to engineering works and last minute train cancellations are possible.

As London Paddington is closed from December 27-29 for HS2 construction work, rail travel to and from Heathrow Airport will be disrupted, as will travel to South Wales and the southwest of England.

The RMT union also announced a strike affecting Avanti West Coast on December 31 and January 2and the railway company will offer modified timetables.

Eurostar says it expects Boxing Day and December 29 to be the busiest days and leaves plenty of travel time.

Rory Boland, from whom? Travel, says: “If your train journey is delayed, you will be entitled to compensation, although the manner in which this compensation is provided may vary between train companies.”

Under the deferred repayment programfor example, it varies depending on the length of the delay.

And she points out that if your train is canceled, you may be entitled to a full refund.

Data analyst Cirium looked at all planned departures between December 20 and January 2 and says that overall this year there will be 5% more departures compared to 2023.

The busiest day for Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, Birmingham and Bristol airports is expected to be December 22.

Strong winds disrupted some flights. Heathrow said around 100 flights were canceled on Sunday.

A British Airways spokesperson said adverse weather conditions and restrictions on the number of flights that could take off and land had led to the cancellation of some of its services.

Mr Bray says customers should stay in touch with their airline and expect changes.

Allowing plenty of time to get to your departure airport is a good idea, as are rules for checking bags, as some airlines have recently changed their policies.

It also clarifies that customers must always reconfirm their return trip before leaving.

Which? says passengers will also be entitled to assistance from the airline, including food and beverages, if their flight is delayed by more than two hours.

“For short-haul flights, the compensation threshold kicks in after a three-hour delay – but is only payable if the delay is considered to be within the airline's control, meaning you don't “You won't be eligible if your plane is held up by a snowstorm or security incident,” says Boland.

In the event of a cancellation, you should also have the choice of a refund or rebooking on the next available flight.

The Port of Dover is one of the busiest ports in Europe and it is stated that if you have booked with a third party supplier you should check your details before traveling.

Ferry company DFDS has announced it has canceled seven services between Dover and Calais due to strong winds. Ferries operating around Scotland and to Northern Ireland were also canceled this weekend.

People are advised to allow plenty of time for your trip and only arrive for your allotted journey.

The Port of Dover also suggests having passports open and ready before border control, in addition to bringing snacks or entertainment to pass the time.

One of Britain's busiest ports at Holyhead, North Wales will remain closed until January 15 at the earliest after suffering damage during Storm Darragh.

Mr Boland says: “If your ferry is delayed, you will not be entitled to any compensation if weather conditions prevent the vessel from operating safely, or if there are other extraordinary circumstances.”

Otherwise, compensation is usually paid on a sliding scale depending on the length of your trip and the length of your detention.

She adds that if the ferry is canceled or delayed more than 90 minutes, you should be given the choice of an alternative crossing or a refund.

You may also be entitled to overnight accommodation if necessary, she adds.