The summer getaway is upon us, and with it, a potential road-tripping frenzy. The RAC predicts a bustling weekend ahead, with an estimated 14.1 million drivers hitting the roads for holidays and day trips. This marks the busiest getaway in four years, surpassing the 2022 peak when the easing of coronavirus restrictions sparked a travel surge. The M1, M25, M60, and M4 are expected to be particularly congested, with the RAC warning that south-west and north-west England will likely see the most leisure traffic. This surge in travel coincides with the end of the school year for most English and Welsh students, while Scottish and Northern Irish students have already broken for summer. The RAC's breakdown spokesperson, Harriet Hernando, suggests that the preference for UK holidays over overseas trips could be attributed to various factors, including flight disruptions, EU border delays, and the economic impact of the Iran war. As drivers embark on their journeys, they'll face higher fuel prices compared to last year, with a 55-litre family car costing an additional £8.90 for petrol and £21.20 for diesel. This financial burden, coupled with the potential for delays and hot weather, underscores the need for careful planning. The concern over border delays is particularly noteworthy, given the EU's Entry Exit System (EES). Implemented in April, the EES requires UK travellers to have their fingerprints registered and a photograph taken, a process that has caused significant delays at ports and airports. The travel industry's calls to suspend the EES until September have been rejected by the EU, raising concerns that delays will worsen during the peak summer holiday season. As drivers navigate the summer scramble, it's crucial to plan ahead, considering factors like departure times and carrying essential items like water, suncream, and an umbrella. The upcoming weekend promises to be a challenging yet memorable one for those hitting the roads, with the potential for both scenic drives and frustrating traffic jams.
