Britain is preparing for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year as nearly 18 million road trips are expected over the late May bank holiday. Motorists should anticipate significant delays, traffic hotspots, and travel disruptions as holidaymakers take to the roads for the extended weekend.
New research from the RAC and transport analytics firm INRIX forecasts a “double dose of delays,” especially on Friday, 23 May, and Saturday, 24 May, with over 3.4 million leisure trips expected each day. The first two days of the weekend account for 38% of all journeys, coinciding with the start of the school half-term break.
Traffic volumes are projected to ease slightly on Sunday, 25 May, with approximately 2.7 million trips planned. However, congestion will intensify again on Bank Holiday Monday, 26 May, when around 3 million vehicles are expected on the move.
The majority of drivers (68%) plan to travel between 5 a.m. and midday, making early morning and mid-morning the most congested periods. Transport experts advise motorists to travel either before dawn or after dinner to avoid the worst queues.
On Friday, the worst traffic is expected between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., with the best time to travel being before 2 p.m. Saturday’s peak congestion is forecast from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with late afternoon and evening travel after 5 p.m. recommended. On Sunday, delays are most likely between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., so early morning travel before 11 a.m. is advised. Bank Holiday Monday is expected to see heavy traffic from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the best time to travel again being before 11 a.m.
Traffic Hotspots to Watch
The M25 motorway remains a notorious congestion point. INRIX predicts that on Friday lunchtime, delays could reach up to 45 minutes on the anticlockwise section between Junction 4 and Junction 1 near the Dartford Crossing. Later that day, rush hour on the M25 between Cobham (J10) and Clacket Lane (J6) may slow journeys by more than 30 minutes.
Saturday could see major delays for those travelling to the West Country. Key routes including the A30 towards Okehampton, the southbound M5 to Bridgwater, and the A303 past Stonehenge are expected to face hold-ups of up to 55 minutes.
Travelers should also prepare for heavy congestion returning home on Friday, 30 May, with journey times expected to increase by over a third across the UK.
Advice for Stress-Free Travel
RAC mobile mechanic Aaron Bryan advises motorists to travel early or late, particularly if warm weather continues, to avoid traffic jams and reduce fuel consumption.
“Always check your vehicle’s oil, coolant, tyres, and warning lights before setting off,” Bryan said. “Breakdowns are frustrating at any time, but getting stranded in traffic in the heat is far worse. If needed, RAC Mobile Mechanics can perform checks at your home or workplace, eliminating last-minute garage visits.”
Motorists are encouraged to carry essential supplies such as water, snacks, a toolkit (including jump leads and a torch), suncream, an umbrella for shade, and a first aid kit for emergencies.
With popular destinations like Devon and Cornwall expected to attract large crowds, the RAC reminds drivers that coastal routes, especially in the South East, will be heavily congested on return journeys as well. Planning both outbound and inbound travel is crucial.
Whether heading out for sun, sea, or a break from routine, careful preparation will help reduce frustration and ensure a safer, smoother journey over the May bank holiday.
