Record-Breaking Easter Bank Holiday Traffic Ahead
The RAC warns this Easter is set to be the busiest on record since it began tracking motorists’ plans in 2014. Drivers are expected to make a staggering 4.62 million leisure trips on Good Friday alone – the biggest traffic day of the long weekend. Bank holiday Monday follows with 3.96 million journeys, while Saturday and Sunday each see around 3.63 million car trips. Altogether, a whopping 5.6 million trips will hit the roads between Friday and Monday.
Rail Disruptions and Football Fans to Fuel the Chaos
Major rail closures between London and Birmingham mean more travellers will resort to driving. Fans from Manchester and Liverpool heading to Wembley for the FA Cup semi-final on Saturday will add to the congestion. Rail strikes in Scotland and northern England threaten to worsen the situation further.
Hotspots include the M6 northbound near Liverpool and the Lake District, the M6 southbound towards stoke-on-trent/" title="Stoke-on-Trent" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Stoke-on-Trent, the M25 between Surrey and the M40, and the A303 near Stonehenge. Drivers are urged to start journeys early or delay till late to avoid gridlock. The RAC also warns that breakdowns could trigger extra jams and advises motorists to check their vehicles are road-ready before setting off.
Petrol Prices Fuel Fewer and Shorter Trips
This Easter sees the highest-ever fuel prices, causing 6% of drivers to ditch car trips altogether. Another 20% plan shorter journeys, while 28% intend to drive less and 33% aim to drive economically to save fuel cash. High pump prices are forcing many to cut back on other Easter spending too.
Shockingly, only 19% of drivers always check their cars before Easter trips. Half sometimes do, but a worrying 30% never bother. The RAC urges a quick check of oil, coolant, and tyres to avoid misery on the road.
Expert Tips to Avoid Breakdowns and Beat the Jams
RAC traffic spokesman Rod Dennis said:
“After two quiet Easters on the roads, traffic is bouncing back to normal – possibly even busier. Throw in rail disruptions, the FA Cup semi-final, and some nice spring weather, and you’ve got a recipe for jam-packed roads. The key is to plan ahead and travel early to dodge queues. And please check your car is fit for the trip to avoid breaking down and ruining your weekend.”
INRIX analyst Bob Pishue added:
“Even with petrol prices soaring, holiday driving is up sharply. Expect congestion on major routes and popular spots. If you know when and where jams build, you can dodge the stress.”
National Highways' Melanie Clarke said:
“This first bank holiday will be busy, so we’re lifting over a thousand miles of roadworks to keep traffic moving. And a quick tyre check could save a breakdown nightmare.”
RAC Patrols’ Top Breakdown Avoidance Tips
- Ben Aldous, Manchester: “If your car feels off, get it checked fast. A well-kept car is way less likely to break down.”
- Kevin Andrews, Bath: “Keep your locking wheel nut handy for quick tyre changes. Secure roof boxes and bikes. If travelling with pets, keep them safe with food and water. Download the MyRAC app to help us find you quickly.”
- Stuart Lurc, Salisbury: “Check tyres every time, especially inside edges. Lock your steering to spot wear easily. Never start a journey with a known problem.”
How to Dodge Easter Traffic Jams 1 Time your travel Travel early morning or late evening to skip peak-hour snarls. Avoid roads when everyone else is heading out. 2 Prep your car Check oil, coolant, and tyre pressure to prevent breakdowns. Don’t risk a puncture with worn tyres. 3 Keep passengers happy Bring snacks and water. Plan breaks. Hungry or tired passengers mean more stress and in-car arguments.
