As the August bank holiday weekend draws to a close, millions of Britons are already looking ahead to 2026 to plan their holidays. With the RAC reporting an estimated 17.6 million car journeys over the long weekend, many are keen to maximise their time off by booking annual leave around next year's bank holidays.
The full list of bank holidays for 2026 has been released, allowing savvy travellers to plan extended breaks. By strategically booking annual leave, workers can enjoy longer getaways without using too many holiday days. The dates include the usual New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, early May bank holiday, spring bank holiday, and August bank holiday.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender commented on the travel surge: “With this bank holiday being the last opportunity to enjoy a long weekend before Christmas, our study shows a real eagerness to get out and about with nearly 18million drivers planning getaway trips.” He warned that major roads to airports and coastal destinations would be extremely busy, particularly in the South East and South West.
Travel Tuesday 2025 is the perfect time to secure the best deals on UK holidays for 2026. Whether you're looking for a seaside break or a city escape, booking early can help you save money and avoid the rush. Many travel companies are offering discounts on packages and accommodation for next year's bank holiday periods.
To make the most of your time off, consider booking annual leave around the bank holiday dates. For example, taking four days off can create a nine-day break. With careful planning, you can enjoy multiple long weekends throughout the year without using up all your holiday allowance.
