The RAC has predicted the UK's roads will become "battlegrounds" this Friday on July 17.

2.6 million people are expected to take to the roads at the end of the school day, as familes get away for the holiday season, clashing with normal commuter traffic said the RAC.

RAC data shows Saturday will see even more of cars on the road, with 2.9 million getting behind the wheel. However, journeys are likely to be more spaced out throughout the day, lessening the chance of queues.

In total, the RAC has estimated 7.5 million motorists will be setting off for their summer holidays between July,17 and July, 19.

RAC head of external affairs, Pete Williams said: “Our data shows that summer holiday traffic is going to be concentrated on our roads this coming weekend, causing gridlock and delays for many on the busiest ‘getaway’ routes. We’re expecting ‘Black Friday’ to be particularly hectic, as the majority of families will be squeezing their journeys into the end of the day.

He added: "The usual coast-bound routes like the M5, A30 and A303 south and west into Devon, the M6 (both southbound, and northbound towards the Lake District) and the M1 are all likely to see traffic jams.

“Routes to Britain’s seaports will also be subject to delays – and motorists will be hoping that their journeys to the Continent aren’t disrupted by striking French port workers or Operation Stack kicking in once again on the M20 in Kent."

The RAC has also advised drivers to check their routes for roadworks before setting off.