HIGHWAYS chiefs are bracing themselves for Christmas chaos as the big festive getaway get underway.

Mortorists have been warned that the busiest day for travelling on Hampshire roads is tomorrow.

And traffic bosses confirmed that drivers should expect delays on both the M27 and the M3

An AA spokesperson said: “Fifty-five per cent of road users on Friday will be using their car for a journey involving main roads or motorways.

“A lot of people will be heading to see their family this weekend.

“The M3 and M27 will be affected by this rush, and they are always pretty busy anyway.

“If you are one of the people travelling this weekend, then ensure you have provisions as that could be the difference.”

Councillor Rob Humby, executive member for environment and transport at Hampshire County Council said: “We expect main transport routes in Hampshire will be busier than usual this weekend, as people start the Christmas getaway, therefore travellers should allow extra time for journeys and check travel updates and information on websites and local radio traffic bulletins.”

A Highways England spokesperson said: “Narrow lanes on the M27 will remain in place where we are preparing for a smart motorway upgrade, but we have no closures planned anywhere in the area.

“We expect the Christmas getaway to be spread out between this Friday and Christmas Eve on Monday.

“Whenever you plan to travel we recommend a quick check of the latest traffic and weather conditions before setting off.”

Southampton Airport also confirmed this weekend will be a busy.

A Southampton Airport spokesperson said: “It’s going to be quite a busy weekend from Friday to Sunday.

“We’re expecting to have about 20,000 people flying in and out. We’re also expecting another 6,000 on Christmas Eve. On an average Friday to Sunday, we expect approximately 12,000 people in and out.”