Short Trips Dominate Summer Driving Plans - AA
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95% of drivers hitting the road this summer, but most staying local
Holiday road trips decline as day trips and local travel take the
lead “A little preparation can prevent a lot of frustration” - AA
Patrol of the Year As the UK embraces the summer holiday season,
almost 95% of drivers are planning to travel by car over the coming
weeks – though most won't be going far, a survey by The AA* has
revealed. The survey of over 12,000 drivers, shows that
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As the UK embraces the summer holiday season, almost 95% of drivers are planning to travel by car over the coming weeks – though most won't be going far, a survey by The AA* has revealed. The survey of over 12,000 drivers, shows that the vast majority are gearing up for work, summer getaways, day trips, and staycations. Only 5% of respondents said they were not planning to drive on key dates throughout the summer period. Most drivers say that they will be travelling shorter distances with two thirds (67%) travelling less than 100 miles per week – that figure rises to over three quarters (79%) across the late summer bank holiday weekend. Average Travel Distance per week (Fri 25 July – Fri 15 August)
The findings suggest a shift in travel behaviour, with many opting for local outings, day trips, and short commutes rather than long-haul drives to distant destinations. This trend reflects broader changes in lifestyle, work patterns, and holiday preferences. The most common reasons for travel include:
Interestingly, more than a third of drivers say they'll be on the road without a fixed plan - rising to over half during the bank holiday weekend. This suggests a more spontaneous approach to summer plans. 25 July-31 July 34% 1 Aug-7 Aug 37% 8 Aug-14 Aug 39% 15 Aug-21 Aug 40% Friday 22 Aug 50% Saturday 23 August 54% Sunday 24 August 58% Monday 25 August 57% Tuesday 26 August 54% Bank Holiday: A Quieter Road Ahead? The 22–26 August bank holiday weekend paints a similar picture, with a noticeable drop in travel distances and a rise in those choosing not to drive at all: Average Travel Distance (22–26 August (Bank Holiday weekend))
More than half of respondents are yet to make up their minds what they are doing across the bank holiday weekend, with Sunday and Monday being the highest (57% and 58%). A Changing Landscape The survey's findings reflect a broader shift in how people are choosing to spend their summer. With more flexible working arrangements, rising travel costs, and a growing appreciation for local experiences, shorter, more frequent trips are becoming the norm. Whether it's a quick visit to the coast, countryside walks, or a family barbecue - the message is clear: this summer, it's all about keeping it close to home. Fortune on fuel Average UK pump prices have returned to mid-April levels, now sitting at 135.0p a litre for petrol and 142.6p for diesel. In June, petrol fell as low as 132.0p with diesel bottoming out at 138.1p. AA analysis of pump prices along holiday routes a fortnight ago found petrol at motorway service areas typically cost 20p a litre more than the average, with petrol on major A-roads still expensive but 5.5p a litre above average. Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “Our survey shows that while many drivers are planning to get away this summer, most are staying relatively local. That's good news for congestion hotspots, but drivers should still plan ahead and avoid peak times, use the AA Route Planner to spot the jams and find a route around them.” “Treat your car like part of the holiday planning. Just as you wouldn't forget your suncream or your booking confirmation, don't forget to check your vehicle. No matter the distance, having breakdown cover in place means help is always close at hand. “Before heading off, take a few minutes to check your tyres, fluids, and battery. Make sure you've got enough fuel or charge if you're in an EV. The AA App can help you to locate cheaper fuel en-route. A little preparation can prevent a lot of frustration - and keep your holiday on track.” ENDS Notes for editors Media contact: gareth.jones@theaa.com / 01256 495969 Travel Distance per week (Fri 25 July – Fri 15 August)
Travel Distance (22–26 August (Bank Holiday weekend))
* Yonder received 12,014 responses from AA members to its online poll between the 8th to 16th July 2025. Yonder is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Examples of the most expensive petrol on UK motorways, revealed on Thursday 24 July by the AA App pump-price search engine, included: Cheapest motorway fuel stops included: see attachments
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