Millions of drivers are expected to take to the UK roads this weekend, marking the busiest travel period in four years as families embark on summer holidays. The RAC estimates that 14.1 million motorists will travel between Friday and Sunday, with Saturday alone seeing around 3.8 million departures. Popular destinations include beaches and campsites, particularly in the south-west and north-west of England. Congestion hotspots have been identified, particularly on the M1 and M25 motorways. In addition, the Port of Dover has seen a significant number of outbound vehicles, with around 10,000 cars expected today. Passengers are advised to arrive two hours before departure to avoid delays linked to new EU border checks under the Entry/Exit System (EES).
Why It Matters
This surge in holiday traffic illustrates the ongoing recovery of domestic travel in the UK post-COVID-19, with numbers reaching their second-highest level since tracking began in 2016. The EES, which was fully implemented in April 2026, aims to enhance border security by requiring biometric data from travellers from non-EU countries. The travel situation at the Port of Dover is particularly critical, as delays experienced during previous peak travel periods have led to significant operational challenges. Understanding these travel patterns and regulatory changes is essential for both planners and travellers as they navigate the complexities of holiday travel in Europe.
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