M5 traffic today: Motorists braced for 'busiest Bank Holiday in a decade'

The Great British Bank Holiday getaway has officially spiralled into a motorway meltdown, with experts warning that we are currently navigating the heaviest traffic congestion seen in over ten years. As millions of families scramble for the coast and football fans descend on away fixtures, the M5 has become the primary bottleneck in a nation-wide travel frenzy.

What We Know So Far

It’s the perfect storm on our roads this weekend. The RAC has predicted this to be the busiest May Bank Holiday for motorists in years, with an estimated 19.2 million leisure journeys planned. This surge isn't just about the weather; a packed schedule of high-stakes football fixtures has added hundreds of thousands of extra vehicles to the network as fans cross the country.

Specifically, the M5 in Somerset is bearing the brunt of the chaos. Long queues have been reported between Junction 14 and Junction 21, traditionally the gateway to the South West. What should be a quick dash to the coast is turning into a test of patience. The surge in volume is so significant that police forces across the Midlands and Essex have issued formal warnings to motorists, urging them to prepare for a long haul.

So, why is it so much worse this year? Context is everything. Following years of fluctuating travel confidence, 2026 has seen a full-throttle return to domestic tourism. When you combine this with ongoing rail disruptions and the sheer volume of sporting events, the motorway network simply hits its ceiling. It reminds us of the 2016 summer crush, but with even higher vehicle density.

What's interesting is the timing of it all. Experts suggest that the 'frenzy' isn't just concentrated on the Saturday morning. We are seeing 'bridge' travel—people taking Friday or Tuesday off—which spreads the pain but keeps the average speed on the M5 at a crawl for longer periods.

What People Are Saying

The authorities aren't pulling any punches when it comes to the scale of the disruption. The message is clear: if you haven't left yet, you might want to rethink your route.

We are seeing the busiest bank holiday getaway in a decade. Motorists need to be prepared for significant delays, particularly on major arteries like the M5 and M6.

Meanwhile, travel experts are offering a glimmer of hope for those who can be flexible. Suggestions include the 'three keys' to a smoother journey: travelling after 6pm, checking your vehicle's health before departing, and using live navigation apps to dodge the worst of the Somerset bottlenecks.

How This Affects You

If you're sitting in your car reading this, you already know the impact. But for those planning to head home or start their journey tomorrow, the advice is to fill up your tank before you hit the motorway. The Daily Express has highlighted that petrol and diesel drivers should aim to fuel up at supermarkets or local garages to avoid the premium prices and long queues at service stations.

The knock-on effect of these delays goes beyond just lost time. Increased fuel consumption in stop-start traffic and the added stress on vehicle cooling systems mean the risk of breakdowns is at an all-time high. It’s not just a case of being late; it’s about making sure you get there at all.

Coming Up

The pressure is expected to peak again on Monday afternoon as the 'return leg' begins. National Highways has confirmed that several planned roadworks have been lifted to help ease the flow, but with the volume of traffic expected, this may only offer marginal relief. Keep a close eye on live traffic updates before setting off on Monday, May 4th.

At a Glance

• Record Volume: Busiest May Bank Holiday for road travel in over 10 years.
• M5 Hotspot: Severe delays reported in Somerset, particularly between J14 and J21.
• Football Factor: Major fixtures are contributing significantly to motorway congestion.
• Expert Advice: Motorists urged to travel after 6pm to avoid the worst 'frenzy'.
• Fuel Warning: Drivers advised to fill up before joining the motorway to avoid service station chaos.

FAQ

Why is the M5 traffic so bad today?

A combination of the Bank Holiday getaway, domestic holiday demand, and several major football matches has pushed vehicle numbers to a 10-year high.

What is the best time to travel this weekend?

Data suggests that leaving before 9am or after 6pm is your best bet to avoid the heaviest congestion.

Are there roadworks on the M5 right now?

While many roadworks have been suspended for the holiday, existing narrow lanes and the sheer volume of cars are causing the primary delays.

How should I prepare for a long journey in this traffic?

Check your oil, coolant, and tyre pressure before leaving, and ensure you have plenty of water and snacks in case of prolonged stationary queues.