Eggcited for the Easter getaway? Is Your Car Ready?

The Easter getaway!

Planning your easter getaway a guide by Steve Clarke , Marketing Manager at Fleetmaxx Solutions

Planning a family Easter getaway this year? Brilliant. The open road is calling… but so are a few million other drivers. Let us make sure your trip is remembered for the right reasons, not for sitting in a motorway queue watching your fuel gauge slowly panic.

With the Easter school holidays fast approaching, travel demand is once again set to surge. Updated projections for 2026 suggest this could be one of the busiest Easter periods in recent years, with around 3.4 million car journeys expected on both Friday 4 April and Saturday 5 April alone.

Traffic is expected to ease slightly as the weekend progresses, with approximately 2.7 million journeys on Sunday 6 April and 2.4 million on Monday 7 April. However, across the full Easter weekend, forecasts point to around 6.8 million journeys, with peak congestion likely between 4 pm and 6 pm each day.

When is the best time to travel over Easter 2026

If you are looking to glide through rather than crawl, timing is everything. Early morning departures or later evening travel windows will give you the best chance of avoiding the worst of the congestion. Mid to late afternoon remains the danger zone, where traffic tends to bunch up like chocolate eggs in a basket.

Prepare your vehicle before you travel

A smooth journey starts long before you turn the key. Research shows that one in four drivers has experienced a breakdown while on holiday, with many of these issues easily preventable.

The most common culprits include:

• Punctures caused by worn tyres or poor road conditions
• Alternator or starter motor faults (15%)
• Engine overheating (13%)
• Battery issues (10%)

A quick pre-trip check can save hours of disruption later. Tyres, fluids, battery health and warning lights are all worth a once-over before setting off.

RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson advises:

“If you are in any doubt about the condition of your car or have an MOT advisory that needs addressing, it is far better to book a service or repair now to reduce the risk of a breakdown during your trip.”

Keep your journey running smoothly

Easter travel should be about family time, fresh air and a well-earned break, not breakdowns and delays. A little preparation goes a long way, helping you stay moving, stay safe and keep your costs under control.

And if you are clocking up the miles this Easter, it might also be the perfect time to check whether you are getting the best deal on your fuel. After all, saving on every litre makes those long journeys feel a lot lighter.

Tips and tricks for your Easter getaway

Here are seven quick tips to help ensure a smoother journey amid the Easter chaos:

• • Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
    Use traffic apps or GPS to check real-time traffic conditions. Planning alternate routes can save time if there are unexpected delays. If you have an EV, look up charging points on your route in advance.
  • Leave Early or Travel Late
    If possible, avoid peak travel times. Leaving early in the morning or travelling later in the evening can help you bypass the worst traffic jams.
  • Pack Plenty of Snacks and Drinks
    Keep non-perishable snacks and plenty of water in the car, especially if you’re traveling with kids or pets. This helps avoid unnecessary stops.
  • Make Sure Your Car is Prepared
    Before hitting the road, check your car’s tyre pressure, oil levels, and top off fluids. A quick check can prevent avoidable breakdowns during the journey. Don’t forget to check your screenwash and ensure AdBlue levels are topped up if you drive a diesel car.
  • Take Regular Breaks
    To avoid fatigue, take short breaks every couple of hours. Stretch your legs, grab a coffee (or your preferred beverage), and refuel both your body and your car.
  • Keep an Emergency Kit Handy
    Pack essentials such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, phone charger, and jumper cables. It’s better to be prepared for the unexpected.
  • Check Weather Conditions
    Easter weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to check weather reports along your route so you’re prepared for rain, snow, or other conditions that might impact your drive.
  • Have Good Breakdown Cover
    If the worst happens and you do break down, having reliable breakdown cover can make all the difference. Ensure your policy is up to date and provides assistance for roadside repairs or towing to a nearby garage.

Steve Clarke – Marketing Manager

Fleetmaxx Solutions