LAST minute Christmas shoppers in Hampshire are being urged to plan their journeys to avoid being caught out by traffic chaos and wintry conditions.

The Highways Agency is warning shoppers and those planning to hit the Boxing Day sales to prepare journey's to avoid delays.

Stephen Bush, the agency's emergency planning manager, said: β€œAt this time of the year many parts of the road network can become very busy. This, combined with wintry weather, can cause delays to your journey.

"That's why we advise road users to keep themselves informed by listening to local radio stations, checking the weather forecast and, if you are going to a major retail centre, by checking out their website in advance.”

Tips incude:

  • Checking your vehicle's electrics, tyres and fuel and fluid levels before setting out.
  • Prepare an emergency kit, including ice-scraper, de-icer, warm clothes and blankets, torch, boots, first aid kit, jump leads, a spade, a road atlas and sunglasses (for the winter glare).
  • Plan your journey and check weather and travel conditions before and during travel.
  • If the weather is very severe, consider whether your journey is essential or travel at a different time. In winter, the weather can change quickly so always be prepared for bad weather
  • Remember that even when roads have been treated with salt, ice can still form, particularly on bends or under overhanging trees.

Traffic and weather updates are available at bit.ly/XmasNYbusy