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Millions of Britons are preparing to hit the roads for Easter getaway trips, despite soaring fuel prices driven by the ongoing conflict in Iran.
According to a survey of over 13,000 members conducted by the AA between March 13 and 19, an estimated 21.7 million journeys are expected across the UK on Thursday, making this one of the busiest Easters in recent years.
The motoring services company RAC warned that this Easter could see the highest traffic volumes since 2022. Oil price spikes, caused by Iran’s control over tankers navigating the Strait of Hormuz, have pushed wholesale fuel costs higher, with knock-on effects for motorists.
The RAC reported that as of Wednesday, the average price of diesel at UK forecourts reached 184.2p per litre, a 29% increase since the conflict began on February 28. Petrol prices also rose, hitting 153.7p per litre, up 16% over the same period.
Despite the rising costs, most drivers are planning relatively short journeys. The AA found that just over half (53%) of trips will be under 50 miles, while 5% expect to travel 50 to 100 miles. Only 1% plan journeys of 100 to 200 miles, and fewer than 1% intend to travel more than 200 miles. Visiting family and friends remains the primary reason for travel, followed by work and shopping trips.
For those travelling to continental Europe, the RAC Foundation advises refuelling before leaving the UK, as fuel is significantly more expensive abroad. Data from the European Commission shows petrol prices on March 23 averaged £1.71 per litre in France, 25p higher than in the UK (£1.46). Other countries also saw elevated costs, including the Netherlands (203p per litre), Germany (180p), and Belgium (156p).
Diesel prices in Europe are even higher, with France charging 183p per litre and the Netherlands 214p per litre, compared with 170p in the UK. Analysts warn that Easter travellers face some of the most expensive journeys in recent memory, compounded by ongoing uncertainty in Middle Eastern energy markets.
Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “For those driving on the continent this Easter it is a case of out of the frying pan and into the fire.
“If pump prices are high here – and indeed they are – then in many parts of Europe they have gone through the roof, including in France.
“It might seem counterintuitive, but filling up at Dover rather than in Calais could be the wise option.”
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