Motorists filling up at motorway service stations face paying 181.26p per litre for petrol, according to RAC Fuel Watch. This is up to 20p per litre more than the UK average, where road users pay 161.28p per litre elsewhere.
Drivers express frustration over motorway fuel costs
A previous poll of 13,775 respondents from the AA found that three-quarters (77%) believe the price of fuel at motorway service areas is "unacceptable". Jack Cousens, AA head of roads policy, previously said: "Drivers could be forgiven for feeling held to ransom over the cost of fuel and food when they are readily available at a fraction of the cost a short distance away from the motorway."
William Fletcher, CEO of Car.co.uk, added: "The difference in price between motorway services and regular forecourts is substantial. Unless it's an emergency, it's always worth planning ahead to fill up before you hit the motorway. Those extra few minutes can save you £10 or more on a single tank."
Bank holiday travel plans affected by high pump prices
An RAC survey of nearly 3,000 UK drivers indicated that 13% have scrapped their bank holiday travel plans because of higher pump prices. Some 8% said they would still make their journey but save money on other things such as accommodation and eating out.
RAC breakdown spokesperson Harriet Hernando said: "With record numbers making a getaway over the bank holiday, it looks like Brits are buoyed by the persistent warm and dry weather and are more confident in making plans for the late summer bank holiday weekend – which is quite often a washout."
Advice for drivers heading to the motorway
Hernando continued: "Drivers should be ready for frantic Friday and think about setting off before 10am if they can. If the warm weather continues, people should be prepared in case they get caught in a traffic jam, by carrying plenty of water."
