Motorists across the UK are being warned to brace for severe delays over the late May bank holiday weekend, as nearly 18 million road trips are expected, with the busiest travel days forecast for Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May.
On Saturday 24 May, routes to the West Country will be under pressure, particularly the A30 westbound towards Okehampton, M5 southbound to Bridgwater, and the A303 past Stonehenge—each expected to suffer up to 55-minute delays.
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Return journeys on Friday 30 May, marking the end of the school half-term break, could also be slow-going, with average journey times expected to increase by 35%.
Expert Travel Advice: Plan Wisely, Pack Smart
RAC Mobile Mechanic Aaron Bryan urged drivers to travel early or late to beat the worst congestion.
“If the warm weather continues, travelling in cooler hours helps conserve fuel, reduces strain on the vehicle, and lowers the risk of breakdowns—especially for older cars.”
He also advised motorists to:
- Check oil, coolant, tyre pressure, and tread before departure
- Pack plenty of water, food, sunscreen, and basic tools
- Consider using mobile mechanic services to avoid last-minute garage visits
Popular Destinations and Broader Impact
Devon and Cornwall remain among the UK’s top travel destinations for the weekend, but other coastal and rural regions could see increased traffic. The M25, used by many to access the South East, will likely be congested again on 30 May during return trips.
