Millions of drivers are set to face significant delays on UK roads this late May bank holiday weekend, with motoring organisations the AA and RAC forecasting widespread congestion. Over 14.5 million leisure journeys are expected to be made between Friday and Monday, as people head off for short breaks or visit friends and family. Friday, 24th May, is predicted to be the busiest day for travel, with an estimated 3.3 million individual trips planned, potentially leading to substantial queues on major routes.
Both the AA and RAC have highlighted specific stretches of road likely to experience the worst congestion. The M25, particularly sections around London and connecting to other motorways, is a consistent hotspot. Other affected areas include the M6 in the North West, the M4 connecting London to the South West, and the A303 through Wiltshire and Somerset, a popular route to the West Country. Delays are also anticipated on the M5, especially southbound towards Devon and Cornwall, and on routes leading to coastal areas and national parks.
Historically, bank holiday weekends are among the busiest periods for road travel in the UK, often exacerbated by a combination of leisure trips, commuter traffic on Friday, and sometimes adverse weather conditions. The RAC's analysis suggests that the peak times for travel will be late morning and early afternoon on Friday and Saturday. To mitigate the impact of congestion, the RAC advises motorists to consider travelling during off-peak hours, specifically before 9 am or after 6 pm, where possible.
In addition to planning travel times, both organisations are urging drivers to carry out essential vehicle checks before embarking on their journeys. Simple checks of tyre pressure, oil levels, coolant, and screenwash can help prevent breakdowns, which often contribute significantly to traffic jams. The AA noted that a high proportion of breakdowns during bank holidays are preventable, stemming from basic mechanical issues that could be identified and resolved beforehand.
The anticipated surge in traffic underscores the ongoing challenge of managing road capacity during peak travel periods in the UK. While investment in road infrastructure continues, the sheer volume of vehicles during popular holiday weekends often outstrips the network's ability to flow freely. Drivers should prepare for longer journey times, pack essentials like water and snacks, and stay informed about real-time traffic updates through various platforms.