Britain's roads face their busiest Early May Bank Holiday traffic in a decade, with 22.1 million leisure journeys expected between Friday and Monday as millions head out for short breaks and day trips.
Saturday will see peak travel with 5.6 million trips, whilst Friday and Monday are set for heavy congestion with 4.4 million and 4.2 million journeys respectively. Thursday will also prove challenging with 3.3 million leisure trips as holidaymakers make an early start.
The M25 around London, M6 in the North West, M4 towards the West Country and A303 through Wiltshire and Hampshire are identified as major bottlenecks. The RAC warns drivers to prepare for severe delays across these key routes.
Ongoing roadworks will compound the problem. Whilst National Highways removes cones from many sites during bank holidays, essential works remain in place. Drivers should check live traffic updates and plan alternative routes or timings.
The surge reflects Britons' preference for domestic holidays and staycations, driven partly by cost-of-living concerns making UK breaks more appealing than foreign travel. This trend places enormous pressure on the road network during peak periods.
The RAC advises departing very early morning or late evening to avoid the worst congestion. Motorists should ensure vehicles are roadworthy with adequate fuel, proper tyre pressure and oil levels to prevent breakdowns that would worsen delays for all road users.
Source: RAC Media Centre