Close to 20 million drivers are expected to take to the roads this weekend as families look to enjoy the second bank holiday of the month.

But amid closures and contraflows on a number of major routes through Kent, the AA and National Highways are warning motorists to prepare for delays.

The late spring bank holiday, say officials will see an estimated 19.75 million people get in their vehicles across the country, with Sunday, May 26 expected to be the busiest day of the holiday period.

The three-day weekend also marks the start of the Whitsun half term break for many school pupils.

Routes around popular attractions and coastal spots may be extra busy, particularly if weather forecasts improve, while football fans heading to Wembley for Saturday’s FA Cup Final are also being asked to check their route ahead of time.

Major road works, says the AA, are already in place along many motorways and major A-roads and will remain in situ with any temporary speed limits also set to remain in force.

Drivers are also being advised to carry an atlas in their car in the event that sat nav systems can’t detect closures or alternative routes.

Roadworks and closures in Kent

In Kent the M2 Junction 5 coast-bound slip road is closed until Monday, June 10 as work continues on the multi-million pound Stockbury flyover project.

At the same time part of Lower Rainham Road, by the Three Sisters pub in Rainham, is closed until June 9 for drainage works.

While the M2 exit closure is about seven miles away from the one in Rainham, those living in the Medway town fear the two coinciding with each other will cause a disastrous effect on local traffic if motorists choose to ignore the official Blue Bell Hill diversion taking them down to Detling Hill to join the A249 Sittingbourne and Sheppey-bound.

There could also be more bank holiday misery for the county’s drivers with the re-introduction of the Operation Brock contraflow that is being deployed again to manage holiday traffic.

It is being used on a 13-mile section of the motorway between Junction 8 for Leeds Castle and Junction 9 at Ashford from Thursday, May 23.

Once the barrier is in place, all HGVs heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel must follow the signs to join Operation Brock at M20 junction 8.

All other coast-bound traffic – including local freight and car drivers heading for the continent – should follow the signs and cross over to enter the contraflow on the M20 London-bound carriageway.

A National Highways spokesman said: “Anyone planning to use Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover is advised to plan their journeys and check with the travel operator before setting out.

“They should also allow more time for their journeys and ensure they are prepared for delays, so should have plenty of fuel, warm clothes, and supplies such as food and drink.”

With the bank holiday coinciding with the half term holiday, the week ahead, says the AA, is often a popular time for motorhome and caravan owners to venture out for the first time since last summer.

Those towing lesser-used vehicles are also being encouraged to make all the necessary checks on items that may have been stored for some time over the winter months.

Chris Wood from the AA added: “Before setting off on any excursion make sure your vehicle is prepared.

“Take 10 minutes to check your oil, coolant, and windscreen wash levels. Make sure you know where you can refuel or recharge. Be prepared for any traffic jams by packing plenty of snacks, drinks and any time dependant medication.

“Importantly make sure you’re make sure you’re fit, ready and awake. Don’t drive whilst tired and make sure that if you start to feel tired stop and take a break.”