Traffic jam alarm: Border traffic between Germany and Holland is backing up!

Traffic jam alarm: Border traffic between Germany and Holland is backing up!

On October 17, 2025, it will be that time again: the highways around Cologne and the border crossings with the Netherlands are faced with veritable traffic chaos. ReiseReporter reports on the most important transport connections between Germany and the Netherlands, in particular the A3 and the A12, which are for travel is crucial. As every year during the holiday season, a high volume of traffic jams is expected at the border crossing near Elten, especially on weekends and during school holidays.

There are many reasons for the traffic disruptions. On the one hand, there is the heavy truck traffic, which causes delayed journeys, especially on weekdays. On the weekends, drivers not only face the hustle and bustle of the coast, but are also confronted with temporary border controls that are carried out on the occasion of major events or for security reasons. In addition, accidents or construction sites near the border can quickly lead to longer waiting times. A look at the traffic situation at various border crossings such as the A3, A40 or A30 shows that there are always significant traffic jams there, as the ADAC adds.

Holiday season causes increased traffic volume

The volume of traffic will increase significantly, especially this coming weekend, from October 17th to 19th, as almost all federal states are on vacation. The autumn holidays attract travelers to the hiking areas of the Alps and to the North and Baltic Sea coasts. This is leading to an increase in traffic jams not only on the motorways, but also on cross-border transport routes, although the extent of traffic jams is expected to be lower this year than in the summer.

The ADAC weekend forecast also shows that around 1,280 construction sites could cause additional disruption. The A3, A1, A2 and A7 stand out among the most important traffic jam routes. Given these challenges, it is advisable to use alternative routes to avoid traffic jams. Recommended alternative routes include options such as the B8 or smaller state roads for those familiar with the Elten/Babberich area.

Important information for travelers

Not all alternative routes are suitable for every type of vehicle. It should also be noted that different traffic rules apply in the Netherlands, such as stricter speed limits. In the coming days, weather-related disruptions caused by fog should not be underestimated. Drivers who want to drive to higher altitudes in the Alps should think about winter tires, while everyday driving in Cologne could also be affected by construction work and closures. For example, the A1 from Cologne to Dortmund will be closed on October 19th between 8 and 9 a.m.

Current developments and traffic reports are crucial in order to be able to react to traffic conditions in a timely manner. It remains to be hoped that travelers will have a good hand in planning routes this holiday season and will be able to avoid traffic jams if possible, as the Stau-Verkehr platform informs.