Road users have been warned to prepare for extreme weather conditions.

Statistics from National Highways show a 22 per cent increase in winter breakdowns on motorways and major A roads over the past five years.

Despite this, nearly 40 per cent of drivers plan to embark on journeys lasting more than two hours during the festive season.

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The statistics reveal that many drivers are surprisingly unprepared for winter travel.

Only 34 per cent of drivers carry water in their cars, even though 62 per cent consider it essential.

Similarly, a mere 10 per cent have emergency food in their vehicles, despite 47 per cent recognising its importance.

Half of the road users do not have de-icer in their cars, although 74 per cent believe they should have it.

64 per cent travel without extra layers or warm clothes, and only 21 per cent have a fully charged mobile phone.

National Highways has released the data as part of its annual winter TRIP campaign, urging drivers to take precautions as colder weather and challenging road conditions set in.

The TRIP campaign promotes four simple steps for drivers using motorways and major A roads this winter: top-up fuel, oil, and screen wash, plan regular stops to rest, inspect tyre pressure and tread, and prepare for severe weather conditions.

Friday, December 20 is expected to be the busiest day on the roads over the festive period, with 7.2 million people planning to travel more than two hours.

Drivers are encouraged to pack a winter travel kit including de-icer, an ice scraper, warm clothing, boots, food, water, a torch, and a snow shovel.

Duncan Smith, executive director of operations at National Highways, said: "We’re now asking road users to do their bit too.

"Packing the right essentials and driving cautiously in poor weather can make all the difference."