14 Million Cars Set to Hit the Roads This Easter Bank Holiday
More than 14 million leisure journeys will be made by car this Easter weekend as the bank holiday aligns with nearly all UK schools breaking up, says a new RAC and INRIX study.
Thursday and Good Friday Traffic Nightmare Looms
Get ready for gridlock. INRIX warns of heavy traffic on Thursday between 2pm and 7pm as holidaymakers join regular commuters. The M25 will be a nightmare zone, especially between the M23 near Gatwick and the M1 in Hertfordshire. Journeys here could take over two hours—double the usual time.
Good Friday won’t be any easier. The worst delays are expected from 11am to 3pm. Drivers are urged to start their trips early or delay departure until later afternoon. Key trouble spots include the M5 southbound between Bristol and Taunton, and the M3 between the M25 and the south coast, where travel times could double.
Return Journey Jam: M5 Northbound Brace for Chaos
The busiest return route will be the M5 northbound from Taunton to Bristol on Friday 5th April at 3pm. Drivers face around two and a half hours in traffic, with thick fog warnings from the Met Office expected to add to travel misery.
RAC and National Highways Urge Drivers to Plan Ahead
RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson warns: “With Easter arriving early this year, it could be ‘Carmageddon’ for holidaymakers. Anyone who can delay leaving on Thursday evening or start very early on Good Friday will have a smoother journey.”
National Highways advises planning ahead and prepping your vehicle to avoid breakdowns. They also stress adjusting departure times to dodge peak congestion.
Top Tips for an ‘Eggcellent’ Easter Trip
- Fix known vehicle issues before setting off
- Pack essential items and prescription meds
- Use the myRAC app to find the cheapest fuel and get roadside support if needed
Prepare well and you might just crack the Easter traffic mess!
