The Easter bank holiday is predicted to witness the highest number of car trips since the RAC began tracking in 2014, with an estimated 5.6 million leisure journeys planned across the four-day weekend. This surge in road traffic is likely to cause significant congestion and travel delays.
Good Friday is expected to be the busiest day on the roads, with around 4.62 million separate car trips. Bank holiday Monday follows with approximately 3.96 million trips, while Saturday and Sunday are each forecasted to see roughly 3.63 million car journeys.
Adding to the pressure on UK roads are major rail closures between London and Birmingham, as well as potential strikes in Scotland and northern England. Sports fans travelling from Manchester and Liverpool to Wembley for the FA Cup semi-final on Saturday will further increase motorway congestion.
INRIX has identified key hotspots for gridlock, including the M6 north between Liverpool and the Lake District, the M25 near Surrey, and the A303 close to Stonehenge.
The RAC has issued a warning urging drivers to ensure their vehicles are “road-ready” to reduce the risk of breakdowns during the busy holiday period. Regular checks on oil, coolant, and tyre condition are recommended to avoid disruptions on the motorway.
RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “This weekend could be one of the busiest for leisure trips in years. With rail disruptions and a major sporting event, the roads will be packed. Early starts or late departures are your best bets to dodge jams. And don’t forget to check your car – a breakdown would only make things worse.”
Fuel prices have reached record highs, causing 6% of drivers to cancel their car travel plans this Easter. Another 20% intend to reduce their driving distances or cut back on other Easter expenses due to the fuel cost increase. Additionally, one third of drivers plan to drive more economically to manage costs.
Despite these challenges, only 1 in 5 drivers always check their car before setting off. Half do so occasionally, while 30% never perform pre-trip vehicle checks, increasing the risk of breakdowns and long delays.
Top tips to survive the Easter bank holiday traffic include:
- Plan your travel time to avoid peak hours by travelling early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Prepare your car by checking tyres, oil, and coolant levels to prevent breakdowns.
- Keep passengers comfortable by packing snacks, water, and scheduling breaks to reduce stress during long trips.
RAC patrols have shared expert advice for drivers. Ben Aldous, a Manchester-based patrol, said: “If your car’s acting up, get it to a garage before the big drive. Well-maintained cars rarely break down.” Kevin Andrews, a Bath-based patrol, advised: “Keep your locking wheel nut handy for quick tyre changes. Secure all roof racks and keep pets safe with food and water.” Stuart Lurc, a Salisbury-based patrol, added: “Check your tyres often, especially inner edges. Don’t start a journey if your car has known issues.”
National Highways has announced the removal of over a thousand miles of roadworks to ease congestion during the holiday. Melanie Clarke, National Highways customer services director, said: “We expect busy roads for the first bank holiday of the year. To help, we’re lifting over a thousand miles of roadworks. But breakdowns still ruin journeys, so check your tyres before you set off.”
Drivers are advised to expect delays, pack patience, and ensure their vehicles are properly prepared to avoid adding to the Easter travel chaos.
Originally published by UKNIP.
