Despite high fuel prices this weekend is set to be the busiest early May bank holiday on the the UK’s motorways and major A roads for 10 years with 19m leisure trips planned, only slightly behind the record 20m forecast in 2016.
RAC research* shows four-in-10 (39%) drivers intend to take to the road for a getaway some time from Friday through to Monday, with Saturday likely to see the heaviest traffic with more than 4m journeys.
‘Frantic’ Friday is also predicted to be hectic with 3.7m trips planned by those looking to make the most of the extra day off. Both Sunday and the bank holiday Monday should see 3m getaway journeys, while a further 5m plan to travel one day between Friday and Monday, but are yet to decide which day.
Among the six-in-10 (61%) drivers not planning to make a leisure trip over the bank holiday weekend, 6% say it’s as a direct result of the increase in petrol and diesel prices caused by the conflict in Iran and the Middle East. Eight per cent say they intend to drive a shorter distance this May bank holiday weekend to reduce the amount they are spending on fuel.
RAC Fuel Watch data shows the average price of petrol across the UK is 157.17p and diesel is 189.23p which means it costs £86 to fill up a family car with unleaded – £13 more than this time last year – and over £104 for diesel, which is £27 more than last year.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin 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.
"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.
"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.
"Checking the 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.
"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.
“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. Our long-term data shows that Saturday morning from 10am to lunchtime will see the heaviest traffic, almost certainly on the M5 from Bristol to Taunton as people head to Devon and Cornwall. If that’s the way you’re heading on Saturday, getting past the RAC tower at the M4/M5 interchange as early as possible is a good goal.
"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."
Notes to Editors
*Research conducted for the RAC by FindOutNow among 2,218 on 22 & 23 April 2026. A nationally representative survey. Figures extrapolated to 34.5m licensed cars for predicted getaway totals
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