UK roads braced for May bank holiday gridlock

Nearly 18 million road trips are expected to take place over the late May bank holiday weekend, with traffic hotspots and lengthy delays on the cards as eager holidaymakers set off for a well-earned break.

Drivers could face a “double dose of delays,” particularly on Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May, when more than 3.4 million leisure trips are expected to be made each of those days, new research by the RAC and transport data experts INRIX warns.

The warning comes as millions prepare to kick off their holidays and the school half-term break, with 38% of all weekend trips crammed into just the first two days. By Sunday 25 May, journeys ease slightly to 2.7 million, but then spike again on Bank Holiday Monday with another 3 million expected on the move.

It’s not just the volume of cars that could cause frustration, but also when people are choosing to travel. The majority of drivers (68%) say they’ll be hitting the road between 5am and midday, making early morning and mid-morning hours the most congested.

Transport experts advise setting off either before dawn or after dinner to avoid the worst of the queues.

Where are the worst hotspots?

The M25 – often the poster child for traffic woes – is expected to be one of the worst-affected routes. On Friday, INRIX predicts the anticlockwise stretch from Junction 4 to Junction 1 near the Dartford Crossing could see delays of up to 45 minutes at lunchtime. Later that day, the section between Cobham (J10) and Clacket Lane (J6) may see rush hour traffic running over half an hour slower than normal.

On Saturday, drivers heading for the West Country may hit major snarl-ups too, with the A30 towards Okehampton, the M5 southbound to Bridgwater, and the A303 past Stonehenge all flagged for hold-ups of up to 55 minutes.

Don’t expect a smooth return either – Friday 30 May, when many holidaymakers head back home, could see journey times increase by more than a third across the UK.

How to beat the traffic blues

To stay stress-free on the road this bank holiday, travel early or late, especially if warm weather continues. It helps avoid traffic, reduces fuel use, and prevents overheating, says RAC mobile mechanic Aaron Bryan.

“Always check oil, coolant, tyres and warning lights before setting off,” Bryan advises. “A breakdown is never fun, but being stuck in traffic in the heat makes it even worse. If you’re unsure, an RAC Mobile Mechanic can carry out checks at home or work – no need for a last-minute trip to the garage.”

Here are some essentials to pack before you head off:

• Plenty of water and snacks
• A tool kit which includes jump leads and a torch
• Suncream and an umbrella for shade in case of breakdown
• A first aid kit for peace of mind

With destinations such as Devon and Cornwall still topping the list for May getaways, the RAC is reminding drivers that routes to the coast, especially in the South East, will be just as busy on the way home. So, it’s important to plan both ways.

Whether you’re chasing sun, sea or just a break from the routine, one thing’s clear: if you’re heading out this bank holiday, a little preparation could save you a lot of frustration.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.