BBC expert’s 3 ‘keys’ to ease bank holiday journey 'frenzy'
The bank holiday on Monday, May 4 could trigger pandemonium on roads and other travel routes throughout the UK as families rush off to their chosen holiday destinations. The RAC is anticipating a particularly frantic start to Saturday morning, but consumer expert Holly Hamilton offered some practical advice for maintaining an enjoyable journey even when confronted with seemingly never-ending queues. Appearing on the Morning Live broadcast remotely on May 1, Holly suggested people start with some mental preparation by accepting they cannot escape the unavoidable: "The advice really is to be prepared. A little bit of forward planning goes a long way with these busy roads... "If you are heading out in the car just kind of accept your fate a little bit, it's going to be busy." With this mindset, travellers can better establish the atmosphere inside the vehicle for the extended journey ahead. She added: "Pack plenty of snacks and a good playlist. That's absolutely key. Then you're happy enough." On Holly's personal playlist is an unexpected selection: "We're obsessed at the minute with Cars the movie in this house. It's the perfect song, the soundtrack for Cars." She then challenged viewers: "And if you can do better than that, make me up a playlist and we'll all be happily sitting on the M5." Before departing, Holly urged drivers to double-check the "obvious" aspects of their vehicle to confirm it is physically road-ready. This encompasses inspecting oil, coolant and tyre tread. Certain checks, such as ensuring tyres are properly inflated, can also boost fuel efficiency, potentially saving motorists a few quid along the way. She continued: "The bottom line is, you do not want to be broken down on the side of the road whenever you're supposed to be somewhere a little bit more special than that." For those not heading anywhere particularly exciting this weekend, it is worth accounting for holiday traffic before setting out. Holly explained: "It's just worth bearing in mind that the roads will be that little bit busier. So, do leave yourself plenty of time." Alternative modes of transport, such as trains, are also expected to be exceptionally busy as travellers look to avoid road congestion. Network Rail has confirmed that the vast majority of Britain's rail network will operate as normal, however some engineering works have forced the closure of key stations, including Liverpool Lime Street, which will remain shut on Sunday until noon on Monday. The RAC is forecasting the busiest early May bank holiday traffic in a decade, with an estimated 19 million leisure trips by car anticipated, despite the rise in fuel prices since the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East.
