Egg-scape the Easter mayhem with these tips

With the Easter bank holiday fast approaching, the RAC warns that it could be the busiest in years, with over 19 million leisure trips expected. That would make it the heaviest travel period since 2022.

Traffic is expected to be heavy on Thursday 17th, Good Friday 18th, and Saturday 19th April, with 2.7 million journeys each day. While numbers dip slightly on Easter Sunday to 2.5 million, they will rise again on Easter Monday as 2.7 million return home ahead of the school term starting the next day.

Another 6.2 million journeys are also expected across the weekend, although many drivers are still undecided on exactly when they’ll travel — they’re likely waiting to see how the ever-unpredictable British weather plays out.

Traffic analysts INRIX predict Thursday 17th April will be the busiest day, with 30% more traffic than usual. The worst delays are expected around 11:45am on the M25 anti-clockwise between J7 (Gatwick) and J16 (M40), with over an hour of delays. The M6 north of Chester and M25 clockwise near Godstone could also see severe evening congestion.

On Good Friday, the worst traffic is expected between 11am and 1pm, with drivers advised to travel early or later to avoid delays. Routes to the West Country will be particularly affected, including the A303 westbound near Stonehenge, where delays could reach 43 minutes.

The M5 southbound between J15 (RAC Tower) and J23 (Bridgwater) may see delays of up to 1 hour 20 minutes, more than twice the usual travel time. Both routes are expected to be heavily congested, turning what should be a scenic drive into a slow crawl.

If you’re returning from the West Country on Easter Monday (21st April), expect severe delays around 2:30pm on the M5 northbound between J25 (Taunton) and J16 (RAC Tower), with up to 58 minutes of hold-ups. The M25 anticlockwise between J4 (Bromley) and the Dartford Crossing will also see lunchtime delays of over 30 minutes.

Here are the best and worst times to drive this Easter bank holiday:

Table: RAC • Source: Time recommendations courtesy INRIX; estimated leisure trips data courtesy RAC • Created with Datawrapper

RAC spokesperson, Alice Simpson, said: “While getaway trips may be shorter, high traffic levels are expected from Thursday, with the busiest Easter getaway in three years. Drivers should plan to travel early or later in the day to avoid the worst congestion, especially to popular destinations like the West Country, Scotland, or Wales.

“The Easter bank holiday is always a busy time for our patrols, but motorists can often avoid breaking down altogether if they make sure their cars are road-ready before setting off. Book a service or repair now to minimise the chances of a breakdown during your trip.”

Tips and tricks for your Easter journey

Here are seven quick tips to help ensure a smoother journey amid the Easter chaos:

Plan your route ahead of time

Use traffic apps or GPS to check real-time traffic conditions. Planning alternate routes can save time if there are unexpected delays. If you have an EV, look up charging points on your route in advance.

Leave early or travel late

If possible, avoid peak travel times. Leaving early in the morning or travelling later in the evening can help you bypass the worst traffic jams.

Pack plenty of snacks and drinks

Keep non-perishable snacks and plenty of water in the car, especially if you’re traveling with kids or pets. This helps avoid unnecessary stops.

Make sure your car is prepared

Before hitting the road, check your car’s tyre pressure, oil levels, and top off fluids. A quick check can prevent avoidable breakdowns during the journey.

Take regular breaks

To avoid fatigue, take short breaks every couple of hours. Stretch your legs, grab a coffee (or your preferred beverage), and refuel both your body and your car.

Keep an emergency kit handy

Pack essentials such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, phone charger, and jumper cables. It’s better to be prepared for the unexpected.

Check weather conditions

Easter weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to check weather reports along your route so you’re prepared for rain, snow, or other conditions that might impact your drive.

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