Motorists are being warned to prepare for record-breaking congestion this Easter.

Motoring experts are predicting one of the busiest periods ever on Britain’s roads as millions set off for the long bank holiday weekend.

The news comes despite record fuel prices, though some trips may be cancelled due to spiralling costs.

Scrambled

According to new data from the RAC, AA and traffic analysts INRIX, around 21 million leisure journeys are expected between Thursday and Easter Monday, making it the busiest Easter getaway in years and among the highest on record.

The surge is being driven by a combination of factors, including improving spring weather, the end of a long winter, and strong demand for short breaks and family visits.

Despite rising fuel prices linked to global oil tensions, most drivers are choosing not to cancel their plans.

Journey numbers remain high across the weekend, with Easter Sunday and Easter Monday both likely to see around 18.9 million trips, reflecting strong demand as drivers visit friends and family or make the most of the break.

  Thurs 2nd Good Fri Sat Easter Sun Easter Mon
Travelling 63% 57% 59% 55% 55%
Not travelling 23% 29% 26% 30% 30%
Don’t know 14% 14% 15% 15% 16%
Actual Journeys 21,672,000 19,608,000 20,296,000 18,920,000 18,920,000

AA statistics

Fried

Traffic is expected to build rapidly from Thursday afternoon as schools break up, with that day tipped to be one of the busiest of the entire weekend.

Good Friday will also see heavy volumes, with millions of drivers taking to the roads from mid-morning onwards.

Major routes likely to experience significant delays include the M25, M5, M6, M40 and M4, along with key routes to coastal and tourist destinations.

Congestion is also expected around retail parks and city centres, as shoppers and holidaymakers combine trips.

Transport experts warn that journeys could take significantly longer than usual during peak periods, particularly between late morning and early evening.

Previous data suggests that traffic can rise by up to 30% above normal levels during major holiday getaways.

Compounding the issue are more than 270 planned rail engineering works expected over the weekend, potentially pushing even more travellers onto the road network.

This year’s Easter getaway also comes against a backdrop of sharply rising fuel prices, with petrol now averaging over £1.52 per litre and diesel significantly higher at around £1.80.

However, research suggests only a small proportion of motorists are changing their travel plans as a result, underlining the enduring reliance on car travel for holidays and family visits.

Egg rolling

With congestion expected to be widespread, motoring organisations are urging drivers to plan ahead and take steps to minimise disruption.

Avoid peak travel windows.
The busiest times are likely to be Thursday afternoon, late morning on Good Friday, and late morning on Easter Saturday and Monday.

Travelling early in the morning or later in the evening can significantly reduce journey times.

Check your vehicle before setting off.
Simple checks—such as tyre pressure, oil levels and coolant—can help prevent breakdowns.

Even minor faults can cause major delays during peak traffic periods.

Plan your route in advance.
Drivers are advised to check traffic updates and consider alternative routes, particularly when travelling on major motorways or towards popular holiday destinations.

Allow extra time
Building in additional travel time can reduce stress and help account for unexpected delays, especially on longer journeys.

Drive efficiently
With fuel costs high, smooth driving—avoiding harsh acceleration and braking—can help reduce fuel consumption and save money.

Festive challenges

While Easter traffic surges are nothing new, the scale of this year’s predicted travel highlights the continued dominance of the car for UK leisure journeys.

Rail services are often regarded as unreliable, expensive and not particularly family-friendly.

They are also inconvenient, especially for young children and when additional luggage is required.

For many families, the flexibility and convenience of driving outweigh concerns about congestion or rising costs.

But with record numbers expected on the roads, experts warn that preparation will be key – plan carefully, or risk spending a significant part of the Easter break stuck in traffic.