![\"Motorists](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/0_bank-holiday-travel.jpg\")
<\/p>\nIrish drivers are being urged to fill up and hit the road by 10am on Saturday.<\/p>\n
Motorists are being advised to fill up early (Image: Stephen Collins\/Collins Photos)<\/p>\n
Motorists are being cautioned to fuel up and hit the roads before 10am this Saturday as Early May Bank Holiday weekend traffic is expected to create significant congestion problems across the country.<\/p>\n
Rising petrol and diesel costs seem to be doing little to discourage motorists from arranging getaways for the Bank Holiday, according to breakdown specialists at the RAC, with more than 19 million car journeys across Ireland and the UK this May Bank Holiday weekend.<\/p>\n
Currently, the average price of petrol stands at \u20ac1.91 per litre, while diesel is \u20ac2.14 to \u20ac2.15 per litre, based on the most recent data from the AA.<\/p>\n
Read More: Famous Galway musician dies as tributes flow after \u2018sudden passing\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n Read More: Galway man\u2019s \u2018Croagh Patrick reek romp\u2019 as holy crowds pass<\/a><\/p>\n Given the record volume of trips planned for the approaching weekend, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin advised it was wisest to fill up and begin your journey as early as you can this Saturday, ideally before 10am.<\/p>\n He said: “Even though fuel prices are uncomfortably high it clearly takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a bank holiday weekend.<\/p>\n “And the fact our research shows it’s set to be the busiest early May bank holiday in 10 years shows just how much we, as a country, love a bank holiday – and depend on our cars to get us wherever we want to go.<\/p>\n “In order to enjoy some time away, whether that’s a visit to the coast, a day out or a break with friends or family, it’s vital drivers make sure their vehicles are up to the task. Some quick and easy checks can make the difference between a great weekend and one that falls flat due to a breakdown.<\/p>\n “Checking your oil and coolant are both nicely between the minimum and maximum lines is the first step, followed by ensuring the tyres have plenty of tread, are in good condition, and are pumped up to the right pressures, something that also helps with fuel economy. Screenwash is also important at this time of year to make sure you always have a good, clear and bug-free view of the road.<\/p>\n “If drivers have any nagging doubts about how well their vehicle is running, it’s still not too late to get them sorted or arrange a service with an RAC Mobile Mechanic.<\/p>\n “Beating the traffic is another key part of any bank holiday weekend. Leaving earlier than everyone else is the best tactic, but those with young families may well struggle to do this.<\/p>\n “Our long-term data shows that Saturday morning from 10am to lunchtime will see the heaviest traffic.”<\/p>\n “Anyone looking to fill up for their bank holiday trip for the lowest possible price should download the myRAC app and use the Fuel Finder feature to track down the cheapest forecourt near them.”<\/p>\n Join Galway Beo’s top stories and breaking news service on WhatsApp.<\/p>\n