Record-level delays could be on the cards for major routes in the UK this bank holiday weekend as improving weather sees more drivers take to the roads.

The M25 is expected to see the longest delays across the weekend

Research carried out by RAC and Inrix has found that drivers are planning to make more than 16.5m leisure journeys this weekend – but with the forecast indicating a return to sunny weather in much of the UK, last-minute trips could push the total much higher.

Some of the worst major roads for delays – according to Inrix data – will include the M25 anticlockwise (between J1 and J4) and the M6 north (between J18 and J24) on Friday, and the M6 south (between J27 and J13) on Monday, with delays of up to an hour on each of these stretches.

“Bank holidays have historically been one of the busiest times for road trips, and this year drivers could even see record-level travel delays,” says Trevor Reed, transportation analyst at Inrix. “Knowing when and where congestion will build can help drivers avoid the stress of sitting in traffic.”

Highways England is playing its role in alleviating bank holiday traffic jams by keeping 97% of the road network it manages free from roadworks. However, it’s joined RAC in urging motorists to carry out simple vehicle checks before setting off; a move that could avoid almost half of breakdowns occurring.

Ella Colley, Halfords summer motoring expert, said: “A bank holiday breakdown can be avoided if motorists make sure to give their cars a quick health check before setting off. Our research shows that only a quarter of drivers get their cars checked every four months or less frequently so taking simple measures like checking tyres are in good condition and inflated, that oil and screenwash are all at the right levels and the air conditioning is working will all help avoid frustration. Also don’t forget to charge your phones before you set out.

“Although these are fairly simple, it is important they are carried out frequently to help avoid hassle and breaking down on long road trips. It’s probably worth giving your car a quick health check or taking it to Halfords or a Halfords Autocentre where our expert colleagues and technicians will do it for you for free.”