Traffic jam alarm at the border: How to avoid traffic at the weekend!
Current traffic situation on the A3 and A12: Traffic jams at the border with Holland on August 16, 2025 - tips and alternative routes.

Traffic jam alarm at the border: How to avoid traffic at the weekend!
The summer holidays are in full swing and many Cologne residents are heading on holiday, especially to the nearby Netherlands. But as always at travel time, there are challenges on the roads. Rumors about traffic jams and long waiting times at the border crossing near Elten are making the rounds. Cuxhaven, a popular destination on the North Sea, is particularly popular, and with it the traffic on the motorways.
The current traffic situation on the A3 in Germany and the A12 in the Netherlands, how Reisereporter reports, shows that traffic jams on Border crossings near Elten are not unusual, especially on weekends and during the holidays. High truck volumes and wandering holidaymakers mean that travelers' patience is often put to the test.
Common causes of traffic bottlenecks
The reasons for the traffic jams are varied. Holiday and weekend traffic are among the most common causes. The streets are particularly crowded on Friday and Saturday afternoons, when people start their vacation. The return journey on Sundays and public holidays also results in high traffic density. During this time, the highways are practically an avalanche of metal.
Another circumstance is the high volume of trucks, which hinder traffic on the same routes as holidaymakers, especially on weekdays. Accidents and construction sites near the motorway also cause traffic jams, while temporary border controls can paralyze traffic flow without warning. There's often a good hand in making sure you leave on time!
Tips for travelers and alternative routes
If you want to escape the traffic jams, you will find numerous alternative options. The Reisereporter suggest taking the A3 towards Avoid Elten/Babberich and use the B8 or smaller state roads instead - but only for those who know the area, as these paths can often be narrow and confusing. Alternatively, you can take the A40 (Venlo) to the A61 or the Dutch A73.
For anyone who wants to take the A30, the B403 or A31 to the A280 are ideal. The A280 (Bunde) also has agricultural roads that lead towards the border, but it should be noted that not every vehicle is suitable for these routes. Who thinks the traffic rules in the Netherlands are similar to those in Germany? He's wrong! The stricter speed limits could cause additional irritation.
In conclusion, it can be said: those who cleverly avoid the traffic jams at the border crossing have the best chance of a relaxed journey. Whether to Cuxhaven or another location, nothing should stand in the way of the trip - maybe a few hours of gaming on NVIDIA GeForce NOW will be a welcome distraction in traffic jams!