UK roads are set to experience a substantial increase in traffic this May bank holiday weekend, with approximately 19.1 million leisure journeys anticipated. This figure marks an increase of around 1 million additional getaway drives compared to the same bank holiday period in 2023, according to new analysis by the RAC.
The surge in planned trips suggests a strong desire among Britons to travel and enjoy the long weekend, potentially benefiting domestic tourism and leisure sectors. However, it also raises concerns about potential congestion and delays across the national road network, particularly on key routes leading to popular holiday destinations.
Drivers are being advised to brace themselves for potentially significant queues, with Friday afternoon and Saturday morning identified as the peak travel times. The RAC's data indicates that many holidaymakers will be setting off early to make the most of the three-day break, concentrating traffic into these narrow windows.
Adding to the potential for road congestion are planned engineering works on the rail network. These disruptions may lead more individuals to opt for car travel, further increasing the volume of vehicles on motorways and A-roads. The combination of increased leisure travel and rail alternatives could create a challenging environment for those travelling across the country.
Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys carefully, check traffic updates before departing, and consider travelling during off-peak hours if possible to avoid the worst of the predicted delays. Vehicle checks, such as tyre pressure and fluid levels, are also recommended to minimise the risk of breakdowns, which could exacerbate traffic issues.