Drivers have been warned to expect heavy traffic this early May bank holiday, with experts predicting the busiest roads in a decade.
New research from the RAC suggests around 19 million leisure trips will be made between Friday and Monday, just short of the 20 million record set in 2016.
Motorways and major roads across the UK are likely to be packed, especially at peak times. Saturday, May 2, is expected to be the worst day for congestion, with more than four million journeys planned.
But Friday could also be extremely busy, with 3.7 million drivers hitting the road in what has been dubbed a “frantic Friday”.
Traffic is expected to remain steady across the rest of the weekend, with around three million trips planned on both Sunday and bank holiday Monday.
On top of that, another five million drivers detailed how they will travel at some point over the weekend but have not yet decided exactly when. Overall, around four in 10 drivers (39 per cent) said they are planning a trip away.
Despite the rush, rising fuel costs are clearly having some impact. Among those choosing not to travel, six per cent said it is directly due to higher petrol and diesel prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, eight per cent of drivers said they will still travel but plan to drive shorter distances to save money on fuel costs.
Drivers have been urged to plan ahead and to not set off during peak times | GETTY
Fuel prices remain high, with petrol currently averaging at 157.17p per litre, while diesel sits at 189.23p. Filling up a typical family petrol car now costs around £86, £13 more than this time last year.
Diesel drivers face even steeper costs, paying more than £104 to fill up, which is £27 higher than a year ago, sparking huge cost hikes.
Sean Kimberlin, from the RAC‘s mobile servicing and repairs team, said: “Even though fuel prices are uncomfortably high, it clearly takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a bank holiday weekend.
“The fact our research shows it‘s set to be the busiest early May bank holiday in 10 years shows just how much we, as a country, love a bank holiday, and depend on our cars to get us wherever we want to go.”
Traffic is expected to be the highest level in more than a decade
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GETTYDrivers have been urged to prepare their vehicles before setting off to avoid breakdowns during the busy period.
Mr Kimberlin said: “In order to enjoy some time away, it’s vital drivers make sure their vehicles are up to the task.
“Some quick and easy checks can make the difference between a great weekend and one that falls flat due to a breakdown.”
He advised motorists to check oil and coolant levels, tyre condition and pressure, and ensure they have enough screenwash for clear visibility.
“If drivers have any nagging doubts about how well their vehicle is running, it’s still not too late to get them sorted,” he said.
Drivers have been warned to expect delays this Friday as millions of journeys set off
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PA“Leaving earlier than everyone else is the best tactic,” Mr Kimberlin explained, though he acknowledged that this is not always easy for families.
According to RAC long-term data, it showed that Saturday morning from 10am to lunchtime will see the heaviest traffic, almost certainly on the M5 from Bristol to Taunton as people head to Devon and Cornwall.
Drivers heading along the southern routes have been advised to start their journeys as early as possible.