Christmas traffic: RACQ reveals busiest days for traffic over Christmas

Motorists planning to head away on holidays over the next week have been urged to plan ahead, with experts revealing the two days – and even the times of the day – when traffic will be at its worst.

The RACQ says traffic will be heaviest in South East Queensland on December 23 and December 27. File picture

The worst day for South East Queensland drivers to head to their holiday destination this Christmas is December 23, according to RACQ data.

Motorists have been urged to plan their Christmas trips early and prepare to face heavy congestion if driving on major roads on both December 23 and December 27.

The dates bookend the holiday rush period where thousands of drivers are expected to hit the roads to see family and friends over the Christmas break, with 10am-2pm on December 24 also earmarked as a traffic nightmare window.

RACQ Traffic and Safety Engineering Manager Greg Miszkowycz said most of the heavy congestion was expected on roads between Brisbane and the Sunshine and Gold Coasts.

“On Christmas Eve, typically between 10am and 2pm are the busiest times on the road,” Mr Miszkowycz said.

“There are also likely to be delays on Tuesday, December 27, as people return home after the Christmas long weekend.

“You can plan ahead by checking RACQ’s Road Conditions website before you leave to ensure you’re aware of the extent of delays or can plan an alternate route.”

Drivers were also warned to be extra cautious when travelling between 9.30am and 1pm throughout the entire festive season, as it’s recognised as the most dangerous driving window, according to AAMI’s 2022 crash index.

But Mr Miszkowycz said the entire festive and school holiday period between December 10 and January 22 presented a higher crash-risk for Queensland drivers.

“Always keep a safe distance between you and the car in front, don’t drive tired or when affected by drugs or alcohol,” Mr Miszkowycz said.

“Don’t speed, avoid distractions, and ensure everyone is wearing a seatbelt.”