UK drivers are being advised to avoid refueling during peak hours as fuel prices may rise due to increased travel demand. The RAC predicts nearly 21 million leisure trips during the Easter period, making it one of the busiest Easter getaways in recent years.
The surge in fuel demand and limited supply stemming from the Middle East conflict have pushed prices higher. The RAC warns that fuel prices could continue to climb, with petrol prices already up by 20p since the start of the Iran conflict.
Iran has closed a vital oil trade route in response to US-Israeli strikes on key sites since late February. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil trade flows, has raised concerns about oil supply stability.
Drivers are urged to avoid refueling during peak times this week as fuel prices show signs of increasing ahead of the upcoming bank holiday weekend. Fuel experts note that prices tend to rise towards the end of the week as more drivers hit the roads, especially before busy periods like Easter.
According to Simon Williams, RAC’s head of policy, analyzing wholesale fuel data suggests petrol prices may stabilize if oil costs remain steady, but diesel prices are likely to rise. Williams advises motorists to refuel earlier in the week or during quieter times to potentially save on costs as fuel stations adjust to changing demand.
