In some skiing areas, carrying snow chains is a legal requirement – even if you drive a big 4x4. Fitted to at least two of the driven wheels, they only work on a narrow range of wheel and tyre sizes, so make sure you buy the correct ones.

Car Parts Direct says its budget chains, which are priced at £72.95, including carriage, can be fitted in three minutes per wheel. For an interesting-looking alternative, Autosocks offers elasticated textile covers which grip and discard the snow as the wheels turn. At £69.85 per pair, they’re light and fold flat for easy storage.