The summer staycation trend looks set to dominate this summer again as a result of so much uncertainty surrounding international travel and COVID restrictions. Studies suggest that there could be a staggering 16 million staycations planned, which could create chaos and enormous traffic jams on UK roads this summer.
Traffic Set to Soar
A study from the RAC also revealed whereabouts traffic could be an issue as a result of holidaymakers. Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Scotland and Yorkshire could all see a huge spike in traffic and this is something that motorists should factor in when making their travel plans.
Last Year
If last year is anything to go by, the summer period will be challenging for motorists with so many other people on the roads. In summer 2020, traffic on the roads returned to pre-pandemic level, but this year you will also have people returning to work and no restrictions in place, so it could be even busier.
Getting Your Car Ready
In addition to factoring delays and alternative routes into your travel plans, officials are also advising that motorists make sure that their vehicle is in a good condition before setting off on a long drive. This is particularly true if the car has been unused as tyres could be damaged and/or under-inflated. This is why you should check the tyres for damage, check the tread depth with the 20p test and top up the pressure to the recommended amount.
Get MOT Booked In
In addition to this, it is also a good idea to get your MOT test completed before setting off as this will give you peace of mind knowing that your car is in good condition. Drivers can easily book an MOT online and you may want to do this sooner rather than later as September will be busy as a result of the 6-month MOT extension ending last September.
Prolonged Summer
It is also important to note that this could be a prolonged summer as a result of the economy only recently opening up and restrictions being dropped. This means that staycations could continue long past the school holidays have ended, so motorists need to be prepared for higher levels of traffic in the coming weeks and months particularly with many starting to return to the office.
It looks like the summer and beyond will see an enormous spike in traffic with so many people planning staycations as well as returning to normal life. As a motorist, you need to plan for this and also make sure that your car is in a good condition so that you do not have to worry about a breakdown further delaying your trip. This is why you should carry out basic maintenance, get booked in for an MOT and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
