UK roads are bracing for their busiest Late May bank holiday since the COVID-19 pandemic, with an estimated 20 million leisure trips predicted across the country. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has warned motorists to expect significant delays, particularly on Friday and Saturday, as holidaymakers embark on their getaways.
The anticipated surge in traffic reflects a growing appetite for domestic travel and short breaks as the weather improves and more people opt for staycations. With the cost of living crisis potentially influencing holiday choices, many families may choose to travel by car within the UK rather than face the expense of international travel.
According to the RAC, Friday is expected to see around 3.3 million leisure trips, making it one of the busiest days. Saturday is also set to be exceptionally busy, with a further 4.4 million journeys. Motorists are advised to plan their routes carefully and consider travelling at off-peak times to avoid the worst of the congestion.
Specific hotspots for delays are likely to include major motorways and A-roads leading to popular tourist destinations, coastal areas, and national parks. Roadworks, which are often paused for bank holidays, could still contribute to localised bottlenecks if active on specific routes. The RAC's data suggests that many drivers will be heading to areas such as the South West, the Lake District, and coastal resorts across the UK.
This forecast underscores the ongoing reliance on private vehicles for leisure travel in the UK, despite efforts to promote public transport. The sheer volume of cars on the road during peak times highlights the challenges faced by the national road network in accommodating such demand, often leading to frustrating delays for millions.