Five million leisure journeys by car are expected to take place this coming bank holiday Monday,* up nearly 1m (22%) on 2016 as drivers seek to make the most of the last public holiday this side of Christmas.**
In total more than 18 million separate getaways by road are planned between Thursday 24th August and the bank holiday itself, according to research of drivers’ travel intentions conducted by the RAC. While traffic is likely to peak on Monday 28th at 5m journeys, Saturday also looks to be a popular day for travelling by road with 4.4m separate journeys due to take place.
Drivers will benefit from the lifting of around 450 miles of roadworks by Highways England leaving 98% of the nation’s motorways and major A-roads roadwork-free, and helping to ease the flow of traffic on some of the country’s busiest stretches.
RAC traffic spokesman Rod Dennis said: “While summer appears to have taken a leave of absence for many of us, our figures suggest drivers are undeterred and are still keen to make the most of the long weekend to spend time with friends and family in the UK.
“We recommend motorists wanting to beat the queues travel outside peak times – so avoid Friday afternoon and evening if you can and try to get away in good time if you are planning a day trip on Monday, or face a long journey home at the end of a summer holiday.
“It only takes a single breakdown on a congested road to cause real disruption, so we also advise drivers to complete some quick, basic checks that can reduce the chances of their vehicle being the culprit. Make sure your tyres are in good condition and are properly inflated, and check your oil, coolant and screenwash are all at the right levels. Don’t forget to fully charge a few mobile phones before you set out too so you can reach help should you need it.
“And remember your passengers – long car journeys can be testing for young children especially so take water and snacks for them, plan some in-car entertainment and schedule plenty of breaks.”
The RAC has published a guide to alternative bank holiday stop-offs for those looking for a change from the usual motorway services areas. The RAC app, free to download for iOS and Android devices, also offers up-to-the-minute traffic information and smart route planning guidance.
Car journeys by day
| Thursday 24th August | 2.5 million |
| Friday 25th August | 3.1 million |
| Saturday 26th August | 4.4 million |
| Sunday 27th August | 3.4 million |
| Monday 28th August | 5.0 million |
| Total | 18.4 million |