Millions of motorists across the UK are bracing for what is predicted to be the busiest August bank holiday weekend on record for leisure travel. The RAC has warned that an estimated 16.7 million day trips are planned between Friday and Monday, leading to widespread congestion on motorways and major A-roads.
The motoring organisation’s forecast indicates that Friday and Saturday will be the peak days for traffic, as holidaymakers and day-trippers head to coastal resorts, national parks, and other popular destinations. With schools still out for summer and many opting for domestic breaks, the sheer volume of vehicles is expected to cause significant delays, particularly on routes leading out of major urban centres and towards popular tourist hotspots.
This year's anticipated traffic levels surpass previous August bank holiday figures, suggesting a strong preference for road travel. Factors contributing to this surge could include the ongoing cost-of-living crisis encouraging staycations, as well as potential disruption on public transport networks due to planned engineering works, which often coincide with bank holidays.
Drivers are advised to plan their journeys carefully, allowing extra time for travel and checking real-time traffic updates before setting off. While specific 'blackspots' are yet to be confirmed, historically, the M25, M6, M4, M5, and routes to the coast have experienced the most severe congestion during bank holiday periods. The RAC encourages staggered departure times to help mitigate some of the anticipated gridlock.
The high volume of traffic also places increased demand on breakdown services. The RAC has urged drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good working order before embarking on longer journeys, checking tyre pressures, oil levels, and coolant to minimise the risk of roadside breakdowns that could further exacerbate delays.