Christmas travelling in Kent can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. Between family visits, last-minute shopping trips, and festive getaways, the roads can quickly fill up. Add in unpredictable winter weather, and getting from A to B can sometimes feel like a challenge.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make your journey safer, smoother, and more enjoyable, whether you’re driving your own car or hiring one from Hire2You.
Why Christmas Travelling in Kent Can Be Challenging
Every December, Kent’s main routes see a sharp rise in traffic. National Highways Englandreports that traffic levels can jump by up to 20% in the week before Christmas, especially on the M2, M20, and A2.
Local Hotspots to Watch Out For
- Blue Bell Hill (M2 Junction 3), often slows due to bad weather
- Maidstone to Ashford corridor, heavy commuter and delivery traffic
- Dartford Crossing, one of the UK’s busiest points in December
- Medway City Estate, retail and warehouse congestion
Even short journeys between Strood, Rochester, and Gillingham can take twice as long as usual. Planning ahead and checking Kent County Council’s travel alertsbefore setting off is a smart move.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to winter driving. Before setting off, make sure to:
- Check tyres, the legal tread depth is 1.6mm, but RACrecommends 3mm for better grip.
- Top up fluids, keep antifreeze and screenwash levels high.
- Inspect lights and wipers, visibility is key during darker evenings.
- Pack essentials, torch, blanket, scraper, phone charger, and de-icer.
If you’d prefer a hassle-free option, every vehicle from Hire2You’s van hire fleetis fully serviced, winter-ready, and safety checked.
Real Example
A Maidstone delivery driver hired a Luton van with a tail liftfrom Hire2Youlast December for festive deliveries. Despite freezing conditions, he managed over 40 drops without issue, thanks to a reliable, well-maintained van built for winter work.
Smart Tips to Avoid Christmas Traffic in Kent
Good timing and smart planning can make a huge difference during the festive rush.
Try these quick wins:
- Travel early or late, mornings before 8am and evenings after 7pm are usually quieter.
- Use live traffic tools, Google Maps, Waze, and National Highways updates help you dodge delays.
- Avoid major shopping zones, Bluewater, Maidstone, and Chatham are Christmas congestion hotspots.
- Allow extra time, aim to leave 30–45 minutes earlier than normal.
If you’re moving goods or helping family relocate, book your van in advanceto secure the best deal. Hire2You’s seasonal van hire guidecovers everything you should know before booking.
Should You Hire a Vehicle for Christmas Travel?
Hiring a vehicle can make your Christmas travel easier, especially if your own car isn’t suited for long drives or heavy loads.
Why Choose Hire2You
- No deposit & no credit check
- Same-day hire, drive away today
- Daily rates from just £29
- Huge range of vehicles, from small cars to Lutons with tail lifts
For shorter family trips or shopping runs, check out small car hire options.
A family from Strood hired a long-wheelbase vanfrom Hire2You last Christmas to move gifts and furniture. They managed everything in one trip, saving time and avoiding multiple runs in a small car.
If you’re new to hiring, our post on 5 common mistakes to avoid when hiring a van in Kentis worth a read before booking.
Christmas Road Safety Checklist for Kent Drivers
| ✅ Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Check tyre condition | Ensure tyres grip well on wet or icy roads |
| Plan your route | Use live traffic apps and plan alternate routes |
| Keep an emergency kit | Blanket, scraper, torch, phone charger |
| Drive smoothly | Avoid harsh braking or sudden movements |
| Allow extra time | Roads get busiest near Christmas Eve |
| Book hire early | Secure vehicles at the best local rates |
For extra peace of mind, see our guide on speed cameras in Kentto help you avoid fines and stay safe.
Useful Local Resources
Before you head out, check:
FAQs
- What are Kent’s busiest travel days during Christmas?
The Friday before Christmas and Christmas Eve see the heaviest traffic. Travelling early in the morning helps you beat the rush.
- How can I check Kent road closures before I travel?
You can find live updates on Kent County Council or National Highways websites.
- What should I pack for a winter car journey in Kent?
Warm clothes, a scraper, blanket, snacks, and a fully charged phone — just in case.
- Are car hire companies open over Christmas?
Yes, Hire2Youstays open with flexible pickup and return times.
- Is it safe to drive long distances in Kent during snow or ice?
Yes, as long as you plan ahead, drive carefully, and use a winter-ready vehicle from Hire2You.
Conclusion
Christmas travelling in Kent doesn’t need to be stressful. With good planning, sensible timing, and a reliable vehicle, you can enjoy a smooth, safe, and stress-free festive season.
At Hire2You, all cars and vans are serviced, checked, and ready for winter. Whether you’re delivering presents or heading to see family, we’ll help you get there safely and comfortably.
Book your vehicle today at Hire2You.co.uk, No deposit. No credit check. No hassle.