Motorists are being warned to expect significant delays over the Easter weekend, with almost 20 million drivers expected to hit the roads on Good Friday alone.
The AA has cautioned that Easter falling three weeks later than in 2024 will "bump up bank holiday traffic by 15 per cent" as holidaymakers hope for warmer weather.
This surge in traffic comes as millions prepare for the long weekend getaway, with forecasters predicting a return to unsettled conditions after a period of settled, warmer weather.
The warnings come amid expectations of congestion building on major routes across the country as families embark on Easter breaks.
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Drivers are being urged to prepare for the upcoming spike in traffic levels
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Motorists have been advised to prepare for congestion around town and city centres, retail parks and major routes throughout the Easter weekend.
The AA highlighted several likely hotspots, including the M6 at Birmingham and around the Blackpool area.
Other congestion points include the south and western sections of the M25 between the M23 and M40, the M5 at Bristol, and the A303 in Wiltshire.
According to AA figures, 19.1 million people will drive on Good Friday, followed by 18.5 million on Easter Saturday.
Easter Sunday and Monday will each see approximately 18.2 million drivers on the roads, based on responses from a survey of 11,233 AA members.
National Highways has implemented Operation Brock in Kent ahead of the Easter getaway to manage the expected high volume of traffic.
The traffic management system involves narrow lanes and a reduced 50mph speed limit on a 13-mile stretch of the M20 motorway between Junction 8 for Maidstone and Junction 9 for Ashford.
Lorries heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must follow specific signs to join a designated lane at Junction 8. All other coastal traffic will be directed to cross over into a contraflow system on the London-bound carriageway.
The measure has been introduced to manage traffic flows in the event of delays at Channel ports, which are experiencing high demand from holidaymakers.
AA patrol of the year Shaun Jones urged drivers to carry out "simple checks" before travelling, advising motorists to ensure tyres are properly inflated and checking oil and coolant levels, or they could face a breakdown nightmare.
He said: "With so many people planning to travel this Easter, it is crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition."
Meanwhile, tourism authority VisitEngland has projected a significant boost to the domestic economy over the bank holiday. Around 10.6 million British adults are planning to take a holiday in the UK during the Easter period.
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Drivers could face long delays on certain roads over Easter
PAThis domestic tourism is expected to generate approximately £3.9billion for the economy. A further 3.4 million people remain undecided about booking an overnight Easter trip in the UK.
The most common reasons for indecision include waiting to see what the weather will be like and concerns about affordability, as highlighted by VisitEngland chief executive Patricia Yates.
She added: "Tourism businesses and destinations will be looking to the critical Easter weekend for much-needed cash flow after the lean winter months, so it's encouraging to see many of us are planning a holiday at home."
