The biggest frustrations about taking to the roads at Christmas time include leaving for events on time, who has to fill up the vehicle with fuel or recharge it – and whose turn it is to drive, motorists claim.
One in six drivers (17%) have had a dispute with their partner over who has to be the designated driver at Christmas, according to a poll of 2,000 motorists.
And other festive travel bugbears include backseat drivers, failure to follow directions properly, and driving in poor weather.
But despite these “speedbumps”, those polled say that “driving home for Christmas” is one of their favourite things about taking to the road in December.
And with no more travel lockdowns in place this Christmas, many drivers can't wait to hop in the car and reunite with the family – in some cases, for the first time in years.
In response, heycar, which commissioned the study, has launched the “ Pre-Sup ” – a downloadable agreement committing couples to do their fair share of driving during the holidays.
A spokesman for the online car seller said: “As the song goes, “Tis the season to be jolly” – but disagreements about whose turn it is to drive can take the sheen off even the merriest of occasions.
“That’s why we’ve decided to help Brits agree in advance who the designated driver should be, and fight for their right to party.
“Reneging on your decision to drive to festive engagements is a common occurrence during the festive season, and a sure-fire way to end up on Father Christmas’s naughty list.
“No-one wants that. So, this is the perfect way to guarantee the feel-good vibes as you’re driving home for Christmas this year.”
Visiting loved ones emerged as the top reason to hop in the car this Yuletide – followed by Christmas shopping, and festive activities, such as ice skating.
Motorists' strong desire to reunite with loved ones will see them drive an average of 92 miles over the holidays.
An additional 44 miles will be covered just to find that perfect gift, and 33 miles will be totted up gathering provisions for Christmas dinner.
In fact, three-quarters of drivers believe their car is essential in ensuring their Christmas plans go ahead smoothly.
And with planned rail strikes in December, festive motorists seem unfazed, despite the potential for increased traffic – as 68% expect to drive as much as they do every Christmas.
Although 36% are planning to trim their mileage down to save money on fuel this year.
The study, carried out through OnePoll, found two-thirds (64%) drive an unleaded vehicle, while 22% drive a diesel.
One in 10 have made the jump to a hybrid car, while just 4% have gone full electric.
