Easter Bank Holiday Fuel Price Warning as Petrol Costs Rise 20p
UK motorists are being urged to avoid filling up during peak times as fuel prices show signs of increasing again ahead of heightened Easter travel demand. The RAC has issued a stark warning that petrol prices could climb further, with the average cost already up by 20p since the start of the Iran conflict.
Surge in Easter Travel and Fuel Demand
The RAC estimates that nearly 21 million leisure trips are planned over the Easter period, marking one of the busiest Easter getaways since 2022. This surge in travel is expected to drive up demand for fuel, putting additional pressure on prices.
Fuel experts suggest that prices often creep higher towards the end of the week as more drivers take to the roads, particularly in the days preceding busy periods like Easter. Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, stated: "RAC analysis of wholesale fuel data points towards the price of petrol potentially stabilising if the cost of oil doesn't increase further, although diesel still looks likely to rise."
Impact of Middle East Conflict on Oil Supply
The heightened demand for fuel coincides with restricted supply resulting from the Middle East conflict, which has driven prices upward. Iran has shut down one of the world's crucial oil trade routes in response to joint US-Israeli strikes conducted on key sites throughout the country since February 28.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one fifth of all globally traded oil passes, has been a contentious flashpoint in the conflict. Oil tankers have repeatedly been the target of Iranian attacks in the strait, triggering widespread concern over the future of global oil supply.
Advice for Drivers to Cut Costs
Motorists are being cautioned to avoid filling up during peak times this week as fuel prices display signs of rising once more ahead of the bank holiday weekend. Williams added that drivers might cut costs by filling up earlier in the week or during quieter periods of the day, as forecourts react to shifting demand.
- Avoid peak-time refuelling to save money.
- Consider filling up earlier in the week when demand is lower.
- Monitor fuel prices closely as they may fluctuate with oil market tensions.
With the Easter break approaching, drivers are advised to plan their refuelling strategically to mitigate the impact of rising petrol costs.
