This could be the busiest bank holiday in 11 years as 20 million getaway trips are planned

Drivers are being warned to expect major delays this August bank holiday, with around 20 million leisure trips expected between Friday 28 August and Monday 31 August.

The RAC says this could be the busiest late-August bank holiday on the roads since its records began in 2015, with warm weather encouraging more people to get away.

Friday is expected to be the busiest day, with 4.1 million trips planned. A further 3.8 million journeys are expected on Saturday, 3.1 million on Sunday and 3.4 million on Monday.

Another 5.5 million people plan to travel over the weekend but have yet to decide when.

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Your ‘Frantic Friday’ warning

Several major routes could see lengthy delays. Here are some of the areas to watch out for.

• M5 southbound: Up to 75 minutes between junctions 15 and 23 around midday Friday.
• M25 anticlockwise: Up to 50 minutes between junctions 17 and 12 around midday Friday.
• M1 southbound: Up to 70 minutes between junctions 16 and 6 around 3pm Sunday.
• M5 northbound: Up to 45 minutes between junctions 11 and 1 around 7pm Monday.
• M5 northbound: Up to 45 minutes between junctions 25 and 15 around 3.30pm Monday.

Fuel prices add to the cost

Higher fuel prices are also affecting bank holiday plans.

The RAC says 32% of drivers have been affected by fuel costs, although just 13% have cancelled their plans.

A tank of petrol now costs around £89, up from £74 a year ago, while diesel costs around £100, compared with £79.

Some drivers are cutting costs elsewhere, sharing journeys or taking shorter trips instead.

Top tips for drivers

Here are some quick things you could do during this upcoming bank holiday weekend:

• If you can, set off before 10am on Friday.
• Check oil and coolant when the engine is cold.
• Make sure they have enough tread and the correct pressure in your tyres.
• Keep plenty of water in your car in case you’re caught in a traffic jam.
• Plan your route and check for congestion before setting off and allow extra time.

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