14 July 2025
The AA is predicting busy roads to popular leisure destinations as the long summer getaway officially begins. With Scottish and Northern Irish schools having broken up at the end of June and English and Welsh pupils are due to start their summer holidays over the next week.
This staggered school holiday pattern means that traditional “getaway weekends” will be spread out. This potentially eases pressure on any single weekend but increases the overall duration of busy travel periods. The AA is encouraging drivers to plan ahead and check their vehicles prior to setting off.
Routes leading to coastal destinations, ferry ports, major airports, and popular tourist attractions such as theme parks are expected to be significantly busier than usual, as families across the UK take advantage of the summer break to travel both domestically and abroad.
Sun, Sea, and Standstill
With millions of families expected to hit the roads this summer, the AA has identified several key weekends likely to see the highest traffic volumes across the UK. These “getaway peaks” typically coincide with the start of school holidays and the beginning of family trips, though they can vary slightly depending on region and weather.
These dates are expected to bring significant delays on major motorways such as the M5 (towards the South West), M6 (towards the Lake District and Scotland), and M4, as well as key A-roads like the A30, A303, and A82.
Motorists should also be aware of the impact of summer events, such as music festivals or sporting fixtures which can add to localised congestion. The AA recommends checking for event-related road closures or diversions and factoring these into your travel plans.
Major events during the summer holidays include: Lattitude in Suffolk (24-27 July); Reading and Leeds Festivals (22-24 August); British Moto GP at Silverstone (29-31 August). Extra traffic is likely during August as the domestic football season returns.
“Spending ten minutes could save you time by helping to prevent a breakdown.”
Planning Ahead
Planning your route before you set off is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, avoid delays, and save money - and the AA Route Planner makes it easier than ever.
Choosing the right time to set off, steering clear of peak congestion, and scheduling breaks at convenient points along the way can make all the difference—especially for families travelling with children or pets.
Plan your journey and factor in rest stops with a minimum break of at least 15 minutes every two hours to help you stay alert. Turn your stop-offs into something memorable, by considering stopping at a nearby cultural or heritage site. Planning your breaks instead of defaulting to the 'fastest' journey option can give you the opportunity to rest, recharge and explore.
The AA Route Planner is also available on The AA App which features the ability to help you find cheaper fuel along your route. Those wanting to avoid motorway service areas can use the Route Planner to guide them to nearby forecourts just off the main road, where prices are typically lower.
For example, a short detour of just a few minutes could save you 10–15p per litre, which adds up quickly on long journeys.
Continental Cover
For those heading slightly further afield and planning to drive across the Channel this summer, AA European Breakdown Cover can offer essential protection and peace of mind. Whether you're exploring the French countryside, heading to the Alps, or road-tripping through Spain or Italy. Having adequate cover in place ensures you're not left stranded if your vehicle breaks down.
The AA also provides guidance on local driving laws, tolls, and documentation—so you can focus on enjoying the journey, and not worrying about what might go wrong.
Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, said “With Scottish schools breaking up earlier than the rest of the UK, we’re likely to see a phased start to the summer getaway. That means more families on the move over a longer period, and more chances for congestion to build up- especially around popular holiday hotspots. Planning ahead and staying informed will be key to a smooth and safe journey.
“Before setting out drivers are advised to check their vehicle. Spending ten minutes could save you time on your journey by helping to prevent a breakdown. Check you tyres – not just for correct pressure, and tread depth, but also for their age on any vehicle which hasn’t been used recently. Top up your oil, coolant and screen wash. Make sure you’ve got enough fuel or electrical charge if you drive an EV.
“We strongly advise drivers to avoid setting off during peak hours if possible. Leaving early in the morning or later in the evening can make a huge difference to your journey time and stress levels. Build in plenty of breaks to keep everyone refreshed and safe on the road.”
The AA’s Top Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Whether you're heading off for a weekend break or a full summer holiday, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your journey is safe, efficient, and stress-free.
1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Checks
2. Plan Your Route
Use the AA Route Planner to map out your journey in advance.
3. Avoid Peak Travel Times
If possible, schedule your departure to avoid the busiest periods:
4. Use The AA App
Download the AA mobile app for on-the-go support. It includes:
5. Stay Calm and Take Breaks
Driving in summer traffic can be tiring. The AA recommends:
Regular breaks help maintain concentration and reduce fatigue, making the journey safer for everyone.
Is that a T-Rex I Saw?
This summer The AA is joining in with dino-fever this summer to mark the launch of Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World Rebirth, which arrived in cinemas July 2, 2025.
To mark the occasion, four special vans will hit the roads to rescue AA members this summer, with the iconic AA yellow livery swapped for a Jurassic World Rebirth car-nivore theme.
Anyone who spots one of the vans, which have been on the road since the start of July, can enter online to win a Jurassic World Rebirth goodie bag.**
The AA Partners With Jurassic World Rebirth | AA
**The competition will open on the 2nd July at 9am, and can be entered via the AA’s Facebook page. The competition closes at 11:59pm July 30th. To enter this free prize draw, participants will need to go to www.facebook.com/TheAAUK and post a photograph of one of our limited edition vans under the “Jurassic World Rebirth Spot the Van” competition launch post with the hashtag #SpotTheVan. Photographs of recovery trucks or classic yellow AA vans (without the Jurassic World Rebirth theme) are not eligible for the Jurassic World Rebirth branded AA vans prize draw. Spot the van prize draw | The AA