The latest RAC bank holiday traffic forecast predicts one of the busiest late May travel weekends in the UK for the past two years, with nearly 19 million motorists expected to hit the roads.

Major routes including the M25, M5, M6, M1, and M4 are forecast to experience severe congestion as millions of drivers head towards holiday destinations during the warm weather getaway.

Traffic experts have warned that Friday afternoon, Saturday lunchtime, and Bank Holiday Monday will see the heaviest delays across the motorway network.

Key Takeaways:

• Nearly 19 million journeys expected across the UK
• M25, M5, M6, M1, and M4 likely to face severe congestion
• Friday and Saturday forecast as the busiest travel days
• Fuel prices remain high but travel demand continues to rise
• RAC shares essential vehicle preparation and travel advice
• Longest delays could exceed 50 minutes on major routes

Why Is the RAC Bank Holiday Traffic Forecast Predicting Heavy Congestion This Year?

The latest RAC bank holiday traffic forecast has revealed that the UK is preparing for one of its busiest late May travel weekends in recent years.

Traffic levels are expected to exceed last year’s figures by almost one million additional journeys as millions of drivers prepare for leisure trips across the country.

Transport analysts believe the combination of warmer weather, school half-term breaks, family holidays, and increased domestic tourism is creating the perfect conditions for heavy congestion on major UK motorways.

Long weekends traditionally lead to spikes in road traffic, but this year’s increase appears significantly higher than average.

According to RAC research, nearly four in ten motorists are planning to travel over the bank holiday period. The majority of journeys are expected to be leisure related, with families heading towards coastal destinations, countryside retreats, festivals, and holiday parks.

Traffic experts have warned that motorists travelling during peak periods could face lengthy delays on several major motorway routes. Congestion is expected to build steadily from Friday afternoon and continue throughout the weekend before peaking again on Bank Holiday Monday as drivers return home.

The RAC bank holiday traffic forecast also highlights how domestic travel continues to dominate holiday choices for many Britons.

Rising airport costs, rail disruptions, and increased international travel expenses have encouraged more families to choose road trips within the UK.

The expected traffic increase is especially notable because fuel prices remain high across the country. Despite the additional costs associated with driving, millions still intend to travel to make the most of the long weekend and improving weather conditions.

Estimated UK Bank Holiday Journeys

Day	Estimated Number of Journeys	Expected Traffic Conditions
Friday	3.8 million	Very Heavy
Saturday	3.8 million	Severe Congestion
Sunday	3.4 million	Moderate to Heavy
Bank Holiday Monday	3.1 million	Heavy Return Traffic

Industry experts suggest that traffic levels this year may rival some of the busiest pre-pandemic bank holiday weekends. Increased confidence in domestic travel and growing demand for short UK breaks continue to influence driver behaviour.

The RAC also pointed out that travel demand has been supported by favourable weather forecasts. Many drivers delayed leisure trips during colder and wetter periods earlier in the year, leading to increased enthusiasm for bank holiday travel.

Sean Kimberlin from the RAC explained,

“With the weather looking more encouraging, millions of drivers are preparing to head out for leisure trips this weekend. Even with higher fuel prices, people are still eager to make the most of the long break.”

He also noted that many motorists are likely to underestimate journey times because of the expected traffic volumes across key routes.

Which Roads Will Be the Most Congested During the Bank Holiday?

Several major UK motorways are expected to experience significant congestion throughout the holiday weekend. Traffic analysts from INRIX have identified multiple traffic hotspots where delays are likely to become particularly severe during peak travel periods.

The M25 around Greater London is once again forecast to be one of the busiest roads in the country.

As one of the UK’s most heavily used motorways, the M25 regularly experiences delays during major holiday periods, especially when commuter traffic overlaps with holiday getaway journeys.

The M5 southbound towards the South West is also expected to become heavily congested as drivers travel towards Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and other coastal destinations.

Holidaymakers heading towards beaches and caravan parks are expected to create long queues during Saturday afternoon.

The M6 in the West Midlands and North West England is another key congestion area. Traffic levels are expected to rise sharply due to holiday traffic, freight transport, and routine weekend travel combining together.

The M1 southbound route towards London is forecast to face serious delays on Bank Holiday Monday as travellers return home from weekend trips.

Most Congested Motorways Expected This Weekend

Motorway	Area Affected	Primary Cause of Congestion
M25	Greater London	Holiday and commuter overlap
M5	South West England	Coastal travel demand
M6	West Midlands and North West	Heavy leisure traffic
M1	South East England	Return journeys
M4	Wales	Holiday getaway traffic

Traffic experts explained that several factors are contributing to these congestion hotspots. One of the main issues is the timing of departures.

Many people intend to leave immediately after work on Friday, creating a sharp rise in motorway usage during late afternoon and evening hours.

Weekend events and tourism activity are also increasing travel demand across key routes. Popular holiday regions are expected to experience some of the heaviest traffic conditions of the year so far.

INRIX analysts stated,

“Drivers should expect delays significantly above normal levels, particularly on routes heading towards leisure destinations.”

Another factor influencing congestion is ongoing roadworks across parts of the motorway network. Although some temporary roadworks are often suspended during bank holidays, certain restrictions and lane closures remain active.

Motorists travelling near London, Birmingham, Bristol, and Wales are likely to encounter the worst conditions.

What Are the Longest Expected Delays This Bank Holiday?

Traffic modelling data has identified several motorway sections where delays are expected to exceed forty minutes during peak periods.

The M25 anticlockwise between Junction 10 and Junction 6 is predicted to experience one of the longest delays during Friday afternoon.

This section regularly becomes heavily congested during holiday weekends due to high traffic volumes around Greater London.

The M5 southbound between Junction 15 and Junction 23 is also forecast to experience major congestion on Saturday afternoon. Drivers heading towards holiday destinations in the South West are expected to contribute heavily to traffic build-up.

On Bank Holiday Monday, return traffic is expected to create severe delays on the M1 southbound and M6 southbound routes.

Longest Predicted Delays

Day	Road	Expected Delay	Peak Time
Friday	M25 J10 to J6	40 minutes	Late afternoon
Friday	M4 Severn Crossing to Bridgend	43 minutes	Late afternoon
Saturday	M5 J15 to J23	46 minutes	Early afternoon
Monday	M1 J16 to J6	52 minutes	Early afternoon
Monday	M6 J27 to J13	45 minutes	Late morning

Traffic conditions are expected to remain unpredictable due to weather changes, accidents, and unexpected breakdowns. Even small incidents can quickly cause major delays when roads are operating near full capacity.

Experts recommend checking live traffic updates before travelling and considering alternative routes where possible.

The RAC has also advised motorists to allow extra time for journeys throughout the weekend.

Sean Kimberlin stated,

“Journey times are likely to increase significantly during peak periods, especially on routes heading towards holiday hotspots.”

Traffic congestion not only increases travel times but can also increase fuel consumption, driver fatigue, and stress levels.

Why Are Fuel Prices Still Affecting UK Drivers?

Fuel prices remain one of the biggest concerns for UK motorists despite strong travel demand for the bank holiday weekend.

RAC Fuel Watch data shows that petrol and diesel prices continue to remain substantially higher than previous years.

Rising global oil prices and international market instability have contributed to increased costs at fuel stations across the UK.

Average UK Fuel Prices

Fuel Type	Average Price Per Litre	Average Family Car Fill Up
Petrol	158.52p	£87
Diesel	185.92p	£102

The cost of filling a family vehicle has risen sharply compared to the same period last year. Petrol drivers are now paying around £14 more per tank, while diesel vehicle owners are paying approximately £26 extra.

Although fuel prices are affecting household budgets, the majority of motorists still plan to travel during the bank holiday weekend. RAC research found that only a small percentage of drivers intend to cancel trips entirely because of fuel costs.

However, many drivers are changing their travel behaviour in response to rising expenses.

Some motorists are:

• Choosing shorter journeys
• Reducing non-essential driving
• Looking for cheaper fuel stations
• Travelling with family or friends to share fuel costs

Concerns over fuel affordability continue to grow among UK households, particularly as wider living costs remain high.

Industry analysts believe drivers are becoming more selective about how and when they travel, but leisure travel demand remains resilient during major holiday weekends.

The RAC has encouraged drivers to use fuel comparison tools and travel planning apps to reduce unnecessary spending.

Sean Kimberlin explained,

“Drivers can save money by planning routes carefully, avoiding unnecessary delays, and checking tyre pressures to improve fuel efficiency.”

Traffic congestion itself also contributes to increased fuel consumption. Stop start traffic conditions force engines to work harder and reduce fuel economy significantly.

How Can Drivers Avoid the Worst Bank Holiday Traffic?

Transport experts are advising motorists to prepare carefully before travelling to reduce stress and avoid the worst congestion periods.

One of the most effective ways to reduce delays is to travel outside peak traffic hours. Early morning departures are often less congested compared to late afternoon journeys.

Drivers are also encouraged to monitor traffic reports throughout the day because conditions can change rapidly.

Recommended Travel Strategies

Strategy	Benefit
Leave early in the morning	Avoid peak congestion
Use live navigation apps	Find alternative routes
Avoid Friday afternoon travel	Reduce motorway delays
Refuel before peak periods	Avoid queues at stations
Plan rest stops in advance	Improve journey comfort

Vehicle preparation is another important factor during busy holiday travel periods. Breakdowns can become particularly dangerous and stressful during heavy motorway congestion.

The RAC recommends carrying out essential vehicle checks before travelling long distances.

Important Vehicle Checks

• Tyre pressure and tread depth
• Oil levels
• Coolant levels
• Battery condition
• Windscreen washer fluid
• Brake performance

Drivers are also advised to carry emergency supplies in case of long delays or breakdowns.

Useful items include:

• Drinking water
• Snacks
• Mobile phone charger
• Portable battery pack
• Basic first aid kit

Sean Kimberlin stated,

“A few simple checks before setting off can make a significant difference and help drivers avoid unnecessary breakdowns during one of the busiest weekends of the year.”

Experts also recommend taking regular breaks during long journeys, particularly in warm weather conditions. Fatigue remains one of the leading causes of motorway accidents in the UK.

Which UK Regions Are Expected to Experience the Worst Congestion?

Traffic conditions are expected to vary across the country, but several regions have been identified as major congestion hotspots during the bank holiday weekend.

Greater London is likely to experience some of the heaviest traffic levels due to the concentration of motorway routes surrounding the capital.

The M25 remains particularly vulnerable to delays because it handles both commuter and long-distance traffic simultaneously.

South West England is another area expected to face severe congestion. Roads leading towards Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset traditionally become heavily congested during holiday periods as tourists travel towards coastal resorts.

Wales is also preparing for increased traffic demand, especially along the M4 westbound route towards Bridgend and other holiday destinations.

Regions Facing Heavy Congestion

Region	Main Roads Affected	Traffic Risk Level
Greater London	M25	Very High
South West England	M5	Severe
Wales	M4	High
West Midlands	M6	High
South East England	M1	Heavy

Traffic analysts believe domestic tourism trends are playing a major role in increasing road usage across these regions.

Holiday parks, campsites, beaches, and countryside destinations are expected to attract large numbers of visitors throughout the weekend.

The overlap between local traffic, holidaymakers, freight vehicles, and day-trippers creates particularly difficult conditions on motorway networks.

Local authorities and transport agencies are expected to monitor conditions closely and provide live updates where necessary.

National Highways has also reminded motorists to remain patient and allow additional travel time throughout the weekend.

What Should Drivers Do If They Get Stuck in Traffic?

Getting caught in heavy motorway traffic can quickly become uncomfortable, especially during warm weather conditions.

Drivers are advised to remain calm and avoid risky driving behaviour when delays occur. Aggressive lane changing and speeding between traffic gaps often increase accident risks and worsen congestion.

Motorists should ensure they have enough fuel before starting journeys because prolonged delays can increase fuel usage significantly.

Hydration is also important during warmer conditions. Drivers and passengers should carry enough drinking water for the entire journey.

The RAC has advised drivers to keep mobile phones charged in case of emergencies or breakdown situations.

Sean Kimberlin explained,

“Preparation is extremely important because traffic conditions can change quickly during busy holiday weekends.”

If traffic stops completely for extended periods, drivers should:

• Keep hazard lights ready if traffic suddenly slows
• Monitor engine temperatures
• Stay informed through traffic reports
• Avoid unnecessary distractions
• Maintain safe distances between vehicles

Experts also recommend taking regular rest breaks to reduce fatigue levels during long journeys.

Traffic congestion can create additional stress for families travelling with children, so entertainment, snacks, and planned rest stops can help improve comfort during delays.

Road safety organisations continue to remind motorists that patience and preparation remain essential during periods of exceptionally heavy traffic.

Conclusion

The latest RAC bank holiday traffic forecast clearly shows that UK roads are preparing for one of the busiest late May holiday weekends in recent years.

With almost 19 million leisure journeys expected, drivers should prepare for significant delays across major routes including the M25, M5, M6, and M1.

Despite rising diesel prices, millions of Britons remain eager to enjoy the warmer weather and long weekend breaks.

Planning ahead, avoiding peak travel times, and ensuring vehicles are road-ready will help motorists reduce delays and travel more safely throughout the holiday weekend.

FAQs

What is the RAC bank holiday traffic forecast?

The RAC bank holiday traffic forecast predicts expected traffic levels, motorway congestion, and travel delays across the UK during busy holiday periods.

Which motorway will be busiest this bank holiday?

The M25 anticlockwise between Junction 10 and Junction 6 is forecast to experience some of the heaviest congestion.

How many people are expected to travel this bank holiday?

Around 18.8 million journeys are expected to take place over the late May bank holiday weekend.

What time should drivers avoid travelling?

Drivers are advised to avoid Friday late afternoon and Saturday lunchtime periods when congestion is expected to peak.

Are fuel prices affecting bank holiday travel plans?

Yes, although most drivers still plan to travel, many remain concerned about rising petrol and diesel costs.

Which roads are expected to face the longest delays?

The M25, M1, M5, M6, and M4 are expected to experience the longest queues and delays.

How can drivers prepare for bank holiday travel?

Motorists should check tyres, oil, coolant, battery condition, and carry emergency essentials before travelling.