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Drivers have warned to expect bank holiday gridlock as millions take to the roads for the final 'long weekend' before Christmas.

An estimated 17.6 million people will get behind the wheel between Friday and Monday, according to experts at theRAC, with a number of major routes heading to popular day-trip spots and airports singled out for long delays.

Motoristshave been reminded that higher volumes of traffic not only tend to slow down travelling speeds, but also increase the likelihood of delays caused by breakdowns and accidents, meaning you should give extra time for your journeys. Here's some of the roads that will face the worst bank holiday traffic:

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Which roads will be worst affected?

Transport experts INRIX believe the M5 between Bristol and Devon will see the busiest traffic, with the stretch from J15 north of Bristol to J23 for Bridgwater likely to see some of the worst delays of more than 40 minutes on both Friday and Saturday.

The M20 in Kent could also suffer the same problem, and delays of half an hour are anticipated in both directions on Friday, from J7 near Maidstone to J3 westbound and J1 at Swanley to J5 at Aylesford eastbound.

How do I avoid the traffic?

While there will be more traffic on the road throughout the bank holiday weekend, the busiest times to drive will be between 10am and 7pm on Friday, 9am and 5pm on Saturday and 11am and 6pm on Monday.

The RAC say the best time to travel on Friday is after 7pm, while on Saturday it will be before 9am, and on Monday before 11am. On Sunday, traffic is expected to be mostly free-flowing.

What about the weather?

Temperatures are expected to be around the seasonal average this bank holiday weekend, ranging between 23-25C in the south and 20-23C further north. Overcast weather with mostly cloudy spells is forecast in most areas.

RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender said: "With this bank holiday being the last opportunity to enjoy a long weekend before Christmas, our study shows a real eagerness to get out and about with nearly 18m drivers planning getaway trips.

"More traffic on the roads will inevitably lead to more vehicle breakdowns, especially if the sun makes an appearance and people decide on the day to visit popular destinations.

"We’re expecting major roads to airports and coastal destinations to be extremely busy, especially the South East and South West regions which could end up bearing the brunt of most holiday hold-ups. Anyone planning routes through these areas should set off as early as possible or be prepared to spend longer in traffic.

"Every minute is precious on bank holidays and a breakdown has no place on the itinerary. Be confident your car is ‘road ready’ by checking it has enough oil and coolant, as well as ensuring that tyres are free of damage, have enough tread and are inflated properly."

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