The RAC has issued a travel warning advising motorists to avoid driving between 11am and 2pm on Saturday and midday to 4pm on Sunday, as millions of drivers take to UK roads for the start of the summer holidays. With schools closing for the break, an estimated 3.8 million journeys are expected on Saturday 18 July and 3.4 million on Sunday 19 July, according to the RAC.
Staycation Surge Drives Traffic
This year, more people are opting for staycations instead of travelling abroad, contributing to increased traffic. Factors include household budget pressure from high fuel prices linked to the Iran conflict and complications with the EU's Entry and Exit System. As a result, more individuals are remaining in the UK, leading to busier roads throughout the summer.
The RAC highlighted the worst times to travel: Saturday between 11am and 2pm, and Sunday from midday to 4pm. The best times to travel are after 2pm on Saturday and after 6pm on Sunday.
Traffic Hotspots Identified
The RAC also pinpointed potential bottlenecks on the M25, M1, M60, M4, and M5. RAC breakdown spokesperson Harriet Hernando said: "The great British summer staycation is about to get off to a flying start, with many opting to stay in the UK instead of travelling abroad. Drivers should be ready for the 'Saturday summer scramble' and plan their journeys, thinking about setting off earlier or later in the day to avoid traffic jams. People should prepare for delays and getting stuck in a jam in potentially very hot weather."
Port of Dover Concerns
The RAC's warnings follow remarks from Port of Dover chief executive Doug Bannister, who cautioned about significant traffic disruption throughout the summer. With approximately 12,000 vehicles expected daily, he expressed concerns about the wellbeing of those stuck in vehicles. He told the Times: "If you have elderly people, children and dogs in 12-hour queues with no lavatory facilities, inadequate water supplies, somebody will die, somebody will have a heart attack. I'm not overegging it. This is the stark reality. How do you get an ambulance through traffic jams like that?" He called for the EU's new entry and exit system to be put on hold until the technology is ready.
Hot Weather Adds to Risks
The warnings come amid a spell of warm weather, with temperatures forecast to remain in the high twenties and potentially climb into the early thirties later this month. Motorists are advised to carry water, ensure their vehicles are in good condition, and plan for delays.
