UK drivers heading out on the roads this week have been warned they could pay more than £2 a litre for fuel at motorway service stations, as millions prepare to travel over the August bank holiday weekend.
Consumer expert Emma Cochrane has urged motorists to plan ahead and shop around before setting off, warning that fuel and parking costs can quickly add up when travelling long distances or visiting unfamiliar areas.
Millions of trips expected
Research suggests up to 25 million trips could be made over the bank holiday weekend, with millions expected to take final summer holidays, day trips or staycations.
Cochrane, speaking to GB News, said drivers could save money with some simple planning.
“From filling up to paying for parking, driving costs can quickly add up,” she said. “But a little planning can help motorists save money and avoid unexpected charges.”
Where to refuel
Fuel prices can vary significantly between petrol stations, even in the same area, meaning drivers who leave filling up until they reach a motorway could face a significantly higher bill.
Motorists have been urged to use apps and websites drawing on data from the Government's Fuel Finder service to compare prices before filling up. The service provides regularly updated information on fuel prices, with data updated within 30 minutes of a change or when fuel becomes unavailable.
Government modelling suggests motorists could save up to 6p per litre by using Fuel Finder. The difference can become particularly significant on a long journey, while some motorway service stations have been found to charge more than £2 a litre for petrol or diesel.
Cochrane said: “Fuel prices tend to be lower in places with lots of petrol stations competing for customers. Try not to leave filling up until you're on the motorway as they are often more expensive than nearby petrol stations.”
Parking pitfalls
Motorists have also been urged to check parking rules carefully, particularly when travelling to unfamiliar destinations. Cochrane warned that car parks can operate different systems, even when they are operated by familiar supermarket chains.
Some may offer free parking but require drivers to enter their registration details or validate their stay. Failing to follow the rules could result in a parking charge and leave an otherwise cheap day out costing significantly more.
Drivers have also been advised to keep evidence if something goes wrong while parking. If a payment machine is not working, a vehicle breaks down or another problem prevents a driver from following the rules, Cochrane recommended taking photographs and keeping receipts.
“If a payment machine isn't working, your car breaks down or another issue arises, take photos and keep receipts,” she said. “These could be invaluable if you need to challenge a parking charge later.”
Appealing charges
Motorists who do receive a parking charge notice have been urged not to ignore it. Drivers have the right to appeal, although evidence can be important when attempting to have a charge cancelled or reduced.
Cochrane encouraged motorists to “act quickly” if they receive a parking charge. “If drivers accept that they were at fault, they can still benefit from paying quickly, as most fines will be halved if paid within a certain period of time,” she said.
With millions of journeys expected over the bank holiday weekend, drivers have been encouraged to check fuel prices before setting off, avoid expensive motorway forecourts where possible and familiarise themselves with parking restrictions at their destination. A few minutes of preparation could help motorists avoid some of the unexpected costs associated with a busy summer getaway.
