RAC

RAC predict a busy few days on the roads and offer some motoring advice on how to prepare for a stress free journey.

RAC are predicting the worst ever Easter for traffic congestion with up to 16 million cars taking to the roads over the long weekend. The peak is expected from midday Thursday when motorists are advised to allow 50% more time to make their journeys. Economic fears leading Brits to shun foreign shores for holidays in the UK, the timing of Easter and the predicted rail chaos are key factors for the surge in car usage pinpointed by RAC.

RAC research has revealed that the credit crunch is taking its toll with nearly half (43%) of motorists less likely to travel abroad this Easter compared with last year. With Visit Britain predicting an increase on 2007 UK holidays at Easter, more motorists then ever are expected to take to the roads.

An additional factor set to cause chaos on the roads is the wintry weather caused by a Siberian cold snap due to hit the UK on Thursday, just as the Easter getaway gets underway. If the weather conditions are bad, we advise you to only make journeys that are necessary and if you are taking to the road, carry spare warm clothes, food and drink and ensure that mobile phones are fully charged in case of emergency.


Top UK destinations this Easter

Top destinations for motorists this Easter according to RAC research are seaside locations (such as Cornwall) and the countryside (such as the Lake District) along with local trips to see the family, with nearly four in ten (38%) of motorists planning to make such trips by car this Easter. Visit Britain is also predicting record visitor numbers in British holiday resorts.

Tom Wright, Chief Executive of national tourism agency VisitBritain, comments: "The current economic outlook could mean British resorts are bracing themselves for bumper visitor numbers this Easter. Families with school age children have only four days to enjoy their Easter break this year so we're going to experience a concentrated few days of domestic travel. There's a real opportunity this year for Brits to rediscover what's on their own doorstep - just make sure you leave enough time to get there!"


RAC hints and tips for making the most of the Easter break

  • Plan your route and have an alternative at the ready in case of delays. Check for the latest traffic updates before you set off using our online Traffic News service or via your mobile phone.

  • Don’t add to the stress of traffic jams by getting lost! Take time to carefully plan your route in advance of your journey. Don’t forget you can use our free Route Planner and maybe consider buying a Satellite Navigation system so you get to where you need to be with minimum stress.

  • Allow extra time for your journey, especially if you are heading for a popular resort or you are travelling at peak times.

  • Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey. Be aware that the stop/start actions of sitting in traffic jams use more fuel. RAC research shows that 64% of motorists do not know that £20 of petrol will only last an average of 130 miles.

  • Checking oil and water levels and the pressure and condition of the tyres before setting off could help to prevent a breakdown. Now may also be an ideal time to purchase breakdown cover if you don’t have it already and this needn't cost the earth. RAC has cover starting from just £33 if bought online and has more patrols per member** than any other motoring organisation, so you can be assured we're out there ready to respond to your needs.

  • Check out our Know-How section which is full of useful hints and tips on planning a journey.


RAC wishes you an enjoyable and stress-free Easter break!

Top six traffic jam hot spots to avoid over the Easter break*

  • The most congested stretch will be the M5 between Bristol (M5 Junction 15) and the West Country as holidaymakers head to the coast

  • The second busiest road will be the M4 between London and the M4/M5 interchange, and into South Wales

  • Roads radiating out from and around the M25 London Orbital motorway

  • The M1 from Junction 25 (Nottingham) to Junction 29 (Chesterfield)

  • The M6 through the West Midlands from Junction 5 Junction 10)

  • Routes from Lancashire to North Wales and the Lake District


*According to Trafficmaster
** Source including Quarterly Market Share Report compiled by Taylor Nelson Consumer Omnibus Report. August 2007.
RAC commissioned Tickbox to carry out the research. Tickbox surveyed 1005 motorists from 04/03/08 – 06.03.08.