Motorists in England are being advised to delay filling their vehicles with petrol until after noon on Tuesday, as fuel prices are expected to increase starting Wednesday, May 20. This recommendation comes from the RAC, which has forecast a rise in petrol prices, more than a month after prices initially peaked.
Since April 15, when petrol prices reached their highest point due to the conflict in Iran, prices have remained relatively stable. RAC data reveals that petrol currently averages 158.24p per litre, marginally lower than the peak of 158.31p per litre.
Before the conflict, petrol prices averaged 132.83p per litre. Diesel prices, meanwhile, are averaging 186.15p per litre—down from their peak of 191.54p but up from 142.38p prior to the war. Overall, both petrol and diesel prices have risen approximately 19% since tensions escalated.
READ MORE: Violent Past of Walsall Getaway Driver Revealed as He’s Jailed for Role in Shooting
READ MORE: UK Heatwave Set to Bring Unseasonably High Temperatures with Herefordshire and Worcestershire Leading
For drivers looking to save money, it’s important to note that fuel price updates must be submitted by 12pm daily to the competition watchdog’s transparency scheme. Therefore, waiting until after noon ensures the most accurate and up-to-date price information when choosing where and when to refuel—particularly relevant ahead of the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend.
Sean Kimberlin, RAC’s mobile servicing and repairs team leader, highlighted the importance of vehicle maintenance amid high fuel prices. “Even though fuel costs are high, many drivers are still hitting the roads to enjoy the bank holiday,” he said. “Before setting off, check your oil and coolant levels to ensure they fall between the minimum and maximum marks. Also, verify your tyres have adequate tread, are in good condition, and inflated to the correct pressure, as this can improve fuel efficiency.”
He added, “Don’t forget to top up your screenwash to maintain clear visibility during your journey.” For anyone concerned about their vehicle’s performance, Kimberlin recommends arranging a service with an RAC Mobile Mechanic before hitting the road.
For those aiming to find the best fuel prices for their Bank Holiday travel, Kimberlin advises downloading the myRAC app and using the Fuel Finder feature to locate the cheapest nearby petrol stations.