Millions of UK drivers urged to save money on fuel prices and parking charges - 'Act quickly'

Speaking to GB News, a consumer expert has urged motorists to follow some simple tips to save them money, as millions prepare to hit the road for the last weekend of the summer.

Research suggests that up to 25 million trips could be made over the upcoming August bank holiday weekend, as drivers look to make the most of the long weekend and final part of the summer holidays.

Millions will be travelling on a final staycation, or simply a day at the beach to soak up the last of the summer sun.

However, experts have warned that drivers could be caught out by expensive fuel prices and parking rules if they are travelling long distances to areas that they are less familiar with.

The cost of living crisis is continuing to have an impact on millions of Britons, prompting consumer expert Emma Cochrane to share tips for drivers travelling at one of the busiest times of the year.

She said: "Hundreds of thousands of drivers will be on the roads this week as the summer comes to an end - whether that be coming back from a festival, wrapping up a holiday or fitting in a final day trip.

"From filling up to paying for parking, driving costs can quickly add up. But a little planning can help motorists save money and avoid unexpected charges."

The consumer expert has provided five key tips to help drivers save money and avoid any expensive costs in the final days of the summer holidays.

Shop around to find the cheapest fuel and save money

The consumer expert highlighted how fuel prices can vary significantly between petrol stations, even if they are in the same area.

She recommended using apps or websites that use data from the Government's Fuel Finder service before filling up.

These services can help drivers find the cheapest fuel in their local area, with prices being updated within 30 minutes of a change or the unavailability of fuel.

Modelling from the Government suggests that drivers using Fuel Finder could save up to 6p per litre, which can add up when travelling long distances, especially over the bank holiday weekend,

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Fill up where you've got more choice and avoid motorway service areas

Emma told GB News: "Fuel prices tend to be lower in places with lots of petrol stations competing for customers.

"Try not to leave filling up until you're on the motorway as they are often more expensive than nearby petrol stations"

Data from Fuel Finder shows that motorway service stations often charge the most for petrol and diesel, with some even selling fuel for more than £2 a litre.

Always check the signs when parking

Emma Cochrane noted that not all car parks operate in the same way, even if drivers are travelling between different supermarket chains.

While some will offer free parking, drivers may be required to enter their details and validate their stay, or they could risk a hefty fine.

The consumer expert has warned motorists not to get "caught out", or their bank holiday getaway could get a lot more expensive.

Keep evidence if something goes wrong when parking

In the event that something does go wrong, and motorists fear they could receive a fine, they should make sure they have some proof of the issue.

Emma said: "If a payment machine isn't working, your car breaks down or another issue arises, take photos and keep receipts.

"These could be invaluable if you need to challenge a parking charge later."

Don't ignore a parking charge notice

In a similar vein, if motorists have fallen foul of parking rules along their travels, Ms Cochrane has encouraged motorists to "act quickly".

"Drivers have the right to appeal, but you must have evidence to get a charge cancelled or reduced," the expert said.

If motorists accept that they were at fault, they can still benefit from paying quickly, as most fines will be halved if paid within a certain period of time.