Car in snow with Christmas presents on top. According to the road safety experts at RAC , 37.5 million of us will be driving to see friends and family this Christmas season. On their website, the RAC states: “The RAC expects the main wave of festive journeys to start on Friday 19th December with 3.6m trips planned, before escalating to 4.1m on ‘Snarl-up Saturday’ 20th December, making it the busiest Saturday of any Christmas getaway period since its records began in 2013. “Approximately 3.5m journeys are expected on Sunday 21st while a further 5.3m trips are set to take place at some point between the 19th and 21st, although drivers are unsure exactly when they’ll travel. ” It has been a rough year for many of us, so it’s gorgeous that we are finding the time to be together. Exactly what Christmas is about. However, before you rush to get behind the wheel, one Car Care Expert, Katie Newman from Carfume has shared the five car checks every driver should be doing before setting off this festive season. What to check before driving on a long journey Check your tyre pressures Newman urges: “ Winter roads can be wet, icy and unpredictable. Unfortunately, the cold weather can reduce tyre pressure, affecting stopping distance and grip. “Ensuring your tyres are properly inflated and have adequate tread is essential before setting off on any long journey this month. Simply head to your local petrol station to check tyre pressures and top up if necessary.” Clean your car Listen, no judgement here, lots of us have messy cars but according to Newman, they’re not always safe: “Whilst you might think that cleaning your car isn’t essential before a long drive, you couldn’t be more wrong. “In fact, a build-up of clutter in a vehicle can be distracting, and stale odours can add to driver fatigue. Make sure to clear out any unwanted belongings, clean the inside of the car, and use an air freshener for long-lasting scents.” Test your lights Newman warns: “Shorter days and poor winter visibility mean fully functioning headlights, brake lights and indicators are a must. “Even a single faulty bulb can put you and other road users at risk. Before setting off, drivers should run a quick inspection of all lights and replace any dim or blown bulbs immediately.” Eek! Please check! Fluid check This is one that many of us are guilty of falling behind on but according to Newman, this time of year it’s essential to keep an eye on your fluids: “The colder weather can use up essential fluids faster than milder temperatures. “If temperatures are below freezing, then make sure your screenwash is winter-specific to prevent it from freezing, and check oil levels to avoid breakdowns on busy Christmas routes.” Prepare an emergency kit Of course, protecting yourself is a must and Newman recommends preparing a car emergency kit : “While checking your car is vital, you also need to make sure you pack a few essential items. “Warm clothes are a must, not just for the journey but in case you break down and need to wait for assistance. A torch is always good to keep in the vehicle in case you break down in the dark, and a de-icer and scraper will be essential to maintaining visibility before setting off.” Safe travels! Related... Met Office Urges Drivers To Keep 12 Items In Their Car This Winter Online Shoppers Warned About Slow-Moving Cars As 'Porch Piracy' Scam Rises Common Herb Could Make You Less Stressed, Less Bloated, And A Better Driver