19 October 2022
With English and Welsh schools closing their gates this Friday (21 October), the AA is predicting a quiet half-term this October as drivers look to weather both financial and meteorological storms.
Traffic will peak Friday evening and again Saturday mid-morning with some drivers heading off for a week’s holiday, but the number of people travelling at these times are not expected to match previous autumn breaks so should have a marginal impact on journey times.
The cost of living crisis is having an impact on households as they look ahead to Christmas and higher bills. Many have decided to cut back this coming week to offer some frivolity in December, planning more localised days out to parks and popular local attractions.
Spending five minutes checking your car over before setting off can make all the difference between making it to your destination or ending up with an avoidable and expensive repair bill
A reduction in travel is also coupled with an inclement weather forecast. The UK’s number one breakdown organisation* is advising drivers to adjust their driving style accordingly as wet and windy weather looks set to hit the country throughout the week.
To help drivers tackle the cost of living crisis, the AA is offering a half-price sale on its monthly breakdown packages**. AA membership unlocks a variety of discounts and money-saving benefits including a fuel price checker, discounted entry at various attractions and 50% off food and drink at numerous pubs and restaurants across the UK***.
It also includes the free AA app which is the quickest way to report a breakdown and allows AA members to track their patrol’s arrival on their smartphone.
Sean Sidley, AA patrol of the year, says: “Half-term travel can be quite hectic, but we are expecting a quieter week as people look to cushion the blow from a string of higher bills whilst planning for a ‘Happy Christmas’.
“Those heading out in their cars could become complacent by not carrying out pre-journey vehicle checks. Spending five minutes checking your car over before setting off**** can make all the difference between making it to your destination or ending up with an avoidable and expensive repair bill.
“For additional peace of mind, our Which? recommended AA breakdown cover comes with unlimited callouts and helpful extras, such as discounts at restaurants and other family attractions.”
* Why we're best for breakdown | The AA
** Breakdown Cover with Unlimited Call Outs | The AA
*** The AA app allows you to both report and track a breakdown, so you know when the patrol will arrive. It includes the popular AA route planner and traffic updates, as well as vehicle reminders for MOT, tax, insurance and service dates. Other enhanced features for all AA members include a fuel price checker, parking-space finder and comprehensive guide to dashboard warning lights.
The free AA app is available for iPhone on the ‘App Store’ and for Android smartphones on ‘Google Play’. Search for “TheAA” or visit theAA.com/apps for more information.
Latest AA member benefits offers
- An exclusive 20% off sale for AA members at Bicester Village – running from 7th–31st October.
- Savings on Merlin Halloween days out including Fright Night at Thorpe Park and Scarefest at Alton Towers.
- Up to 50% off Vue to see the latest releases including Black Adam and Lyle, Lyle Crocodile.
For information on how to claim these offers and download vouchers where necessary visit the AA Member Benefits website
**** Using the handy AA acronym FLOWER can help keep you stay safe and avoid a breakdown;
- Fuel / Electric charge
- Lights
- Oil
- Water
- Electrics
- Rubber