The RAC warns nearly 21 million leisure trips are planned over the holiday period, with coastal routes likely to be hit hardest and multiple UK motorways set for heavy congestion this week
17:14, 30 Mar 2026Updated 06:33, 01 Apr 2026
Brits have been warned to fill up as soon as possible(Image: Huchot-Boissier Patricia/ABACA/Shutterstock)
Drivers have been urged to set off early ahead of a bumper Easter getaway, with more cars expected on the roads than at any point in the past four years.
The Royal Automobile Club warns nearly 21 million leisure trips are planned over the holiday period. Coastal routes are likely to be hit hardest, according to the AA, with the M4, M25, M5, M40 and M1 all set for heavy congestion this week.
Despite rising fuel prices – driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East – most motorists won’t be changing their plans. RAC research shows that while 31% of drivers are increasingly concerned about costs, the majority still intent to travel. Here’s the plan for the country if fuel begins to dwindle.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin has advised drivers to fill up and set off on their journeys as soon as possible – definitely before 10am on Thursday.
Fuel prices have surged amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East
He said: “Fuel prices may have risen sharply in recent weeks, but our research with drivers shows they are still determined to make the most of the Easter break.
“Despite diesel costing around £19 more per tank than last year and petrol about £8 more, only a small number of people are actually changing their plans. For many, Easter is the first real chance to get away since Christmas, so we’re urging drivers to use the myRAC app to find the cheapest forecourts near them.”
He added: “This year we’re expecting one of the busiest Easter getaways since 2022, with planned leisure trips rising again for the second year running.
“Traffic is likely to build from Thursday as schools break up, with the M5 towards Devon and Cornwall and the M25 set to be particularly congested. The worst delays are expected from around 10am, so getting on the road early is still the best way to avoid the queues.”
Fuel prices have surged across the globe as the key trade route through the Strait of Hormuz remains a contentious point in the war with Iran. The waterway conveys about 20% of the world’s oil and gas.