The RAC has said that ‘Frantic Friday’ will see traffic jams across the country as families embark on their summer holidays.

Drivers are expected to make more than 9 million individual leisure journeys by car between Friday (July 20) and the end of the weekend.

Research conducted by the RAC of the travel plans of 2,300 motorists suggests that ‘getaway’ traffic will peak on Friday.

In total, over the 16 days between July 20 and August 4, the research suggests in the region of 34m individual leisure trips will be taken, with Saturday July 28 alone seeing in the region of 4.5m journeys.

RAC traffic spokesman Rod Dennis said: “This weekend tends to be one of the busiest on the roads for leisure journeys, second only to Easter and Christmas.

“On some popular routes, this may well mean gridlock, especially through the second half of Friday when commuters and holidaymakers will be sharing space on the same stretches of the UK’s roads.”

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Steve Ramsdale, said: “With temperatures expected to climb again as we head towards the weekend, and some locations expected to experience temperatures of 30C or more under clear skies, it is vital motorists plan for longer journeys in warm sunshine.

"With clear skies UV levels will be high, while the potential for delays may mean there are longer spells between travel breaks. Keeping hydrated will help overcome uncomfortable journeys.”

As usual the Dartford Crossing and the south circular could be grid-locked. So if you are thinking about the best times to travel then you should keep a close eye on the travel news before you embark.

You should plan for extra time and leave a lot earlier than you usually would just to be safe.