TL;DR: Drivers face major delays this spring bank holiday, with an estimated 19 million leisure trips planned. The RAC warns Friday afternoon and Saturday morning will see the worst congestion on key motorways like the M25 and M5, as a 32C heatwave is forecast across the UK.
19M drivers warned of 'worst' bank holiday traffic in 32C heat
The latest UK bank holiday traffic forecast reveals a perfect storm for drivers, with an estimated 19 million leisure journeys set to clash with a scorching 32C heatwave. The RAC is warning motorists to brace for significant delays, particularly on Friday and Saturday, as the combination of the half-term break and the hottest weather of the year so far tempts millions onto the roads.
Key Facts
- 19 million leisure trips are expected over the spring bank holiday weekend, according to recent RAC traffic survey results.
- 32C is the peak temperature forecast by the Met Office, likely making Sunday the hottest day of the year.
- 158.5p per litre is the 2026 high that UK fuel prices for petrol have recently reached, despite a fuel duty cut.
- Friday afternoon and Saturday morning are predicted to be the absolute busiest times on UK roads.
- M25 journeys between Junction 10 and 6 could see travel times double on Saturday lunchtime.
What this means for drivers
RAC traffic survey results show a significant increase in travel plans, with one million more journeys anticipated compared to last year's spring bank holiday. It seems the promise of a proper British heatwave is a powerful motivator, outweighing concerns over the recent UK fuel prices petrol increase.
The scramble for the spring bank holiday getaway is expected to peak on Friday afternoon and continue through Saturday morning. For drivers hoping to dodge the worst of the gridlock, the advice is clear: travel before 11am or hold off until after 6pm. Leaving at the crack of dawn might be your best bet for a smooth start to the holiday.
Motorway congestion hotspots revealed
Data reveals specific motorway congestion hotspots where drivers will face the longest queues. If you're using the M25, the anticlockwise stretch between Junction 10 (A3) and Junction 6 (A22) is set to be a major bottleneck, with journey times expected to double around lunchtime on Saturday.
Further west, drivers on the M5 southbound near Bristol should prepare for tailbacks of around 45 minutes at midday. While not explicitly highlighted in this forecast, routes like the M6 and M1 are also traditional hotspots and will likely see significant M25, M5, M6 traffic delays.
Fuel prices vs the urge to travel
While the roads will be busy, drivers' wallets are also feeling the pressure. Petrol prices have recently crept up to a 2026 high of 158.5p per litre. However, there is some relief for motorists, as Sir Keir Starmer recently confirmed that the 5p per litre fuel duty cut will remain for the rest of the year, a move which softens the financial blow of a long journey, even if it won't clear the traffic queues.
It's worth noting that some organisations, like the AA, have released even higher AA bank holiday journey predictions of 23 million trips. The difference in figures is simply down to methodology; the AA's number includes every van and regular commuter, whereas the RAC focuses purely on leisure travel.
Half-term road travel advice
With the Met Office's UK heatwave weather forecast predicting temperatures of 28C as early as Friday, the heat will put extra strain on vehicles. Before you set off, it's crucial to give your car a quick once-over.
Checking your engine coolant is non-negotiable; an overheating engine on the hard shoulder is a holiday-ruiner. Also, ensure your tyre pressures are correct for a car full of passengers and luggage. The bottom line is, whether 19 or 23 million trips are made, the roads are going to be exceptionally busy. Our best advice? Pack more water and snacks than you think you'll need, plan your route and timings carefully, and try to enjoy the sunshine, even if it is through a windscreen.