Drivers are planning nearly 21 million leisure journeys over the Easter bank holiday weekend, making it the busiest on UK roads in four years, despite soaring fuel prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East. The RAC and traffic analytics firm Inrix report over one million additional trips compared to last year, with the potential for further increases as warmer weather is forecast.
The AA predicts traffic will peak on Thursday, when many schools break up. Over half of journeys are expected to be under 50 miles, with around one in five trips to visit friends and family, one in ten for outdoor activities, and five per cent to DIY stores or garden centres. Routes to the coast, town centres, and retail parks are likely to be particularly busy.
Network Rail has warned of extensive engineering works over the weekend, with more than 270 upgrade projects across Britain, which may add to road congestion. Meanwhile, the port of Dover expects 37,000 cars to pass through between Thursday and 19 April.
Fuel prices have risen sharply, with petrol averaging over 150p per litre for the first time since May 2024, according to the RAC. Filling a 55-litre family car with diesel costs at least £19 more than last Easter, while petrol is nearly £8 more. Despite this, only six per cent of drivers plan to reduce distances or avoid driving altogether.
RAC spokesperson Sean Kimberlin said: "Despite fuel prices rising dramatically due to the conflict in the Middle East, our research suggests Easter remains incredibly important to people as it’s often the first chance to get away since Christmas."
