Drivers urged to pack food in their car this weekend

Motorists have been told to make “sandwiches” the night before a big trip this Bank Holiday weekend with in a simple tip to avoid the worst of the Bank Holiday traffic. Experts at Oak Road Motor Factors stressed that packing the car the night before would prevent road users from rushing around and forgetting things before a long journey.

However, taking food already packed up instead of stopping at a motorway service station could also pay off, with road users likely to dodge the worst traffic jams. According to the specialists, drivers could face a “long line of traffic” entering and exiting motorway services at lunchtime as road users all stop in the same two-hour window. Dodging this completely could save some vital time with road users also likely to enjoy the best of the road conditions while other vehicles are parked up.

Even moving lunch stops to before or after the peak rush hour is another way road users can beat the queues.

Oak Road Motor Factors explained: “Here’s what we know about Bank Holiday travel. Everyone wants to stop to eat at lunchtime. We do know more but we’re focusing on this for now.

“So don’t leave at a time where you’re going to have to stop between twelve and two for food. How many times have you thought ‘oh I’ll just pop off here for a wee / sandwich / quick go on the slot machines and discovered a very long line of traffic doing the same thing? Indeed – lots.

“Plan your leaving time so that you won’t have to stop at peak lunch times. In fact, check out your route, find out where the motorway stops are and aim for one that’s going to be outside of premium time so you know you’ll get in without adding 400 years to your journey.”

They added: “Fill up your tank before you go. Pack the night before. Make sandwiches. Fill your water bottles. Have the stuff you need in the car, not in the boot.”

New data from RAC and INRIX has revealed that a staggering 17.6m leisure journeys are expected by car this August Bank Holiday weekend.

A breakdown of the statistics has revealed that three million trips are likely to take place on Friday 22 August. However, this will rise to 3.4m on Saturday 23 August with another 2.4m expected on Sunday.