When is the highway toll-free in general?
3 Answers
Traditional holidays are toll-free on highways. Below is an introduction to highway toll conditions: Toll-free periods: According to the "Implementation Plan for Exempting Small Passenger Vehicles from Toll Fees on Major Holidays", the toll-free periods for expressways in 2021 are during the Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, Labor Day, and National Day, totaling four national statutory holidays and the consecutive holidays determined by the State Council for these statutory holidays. Toll periods: All other times except the Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, Labor Day, and National Day. Specifically, the Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and New Year's Day are subject to normal toll charges.
I've been driving on highways for over a decade, and tolls are only waived during national statutory holidays, such as the Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, May Day Labor holiday, and National Day holiday—these extended vacation periods. Particularly, vehicles with seven seats or fewer enjoy free passage, a benefit stemming from policies that encourage holiday travel. I always take advantage of these times to go on road trips with my family, saving on toll fees while exploring more scenic spots. However, a friendly reminder: the toll-free period is limited to specific days during these holidays, and the exact dates may slightly vary each year, so it's advisable to check the Ministry of Transport announcements for precise planning. Avoiding peak travel times makes for a smoother journey, sparing you the frustration of traffic jams. On regular weekends or weekdays, tolls apply as usual, so making the most of the toll-free windows is crucial. It’s also a good opportunity to combine your trip with vehicle maintenance to ensure a hassle-free adventure.
As a backpacker, I enjoy saving money on travel during toll-free periods on highways, typically during statutory holidays like National Day or Spring Festival when tolls are waived for a few days. During these times, I often organize road trips with friends to nearby cities, using the saved toll money for more delicious food or entrance tickets. Checking the toll-free schedule in advance is crucial, as occasional policy changes might affect the timing. If traveling in a group, it's advisable to depart early to avoid traffic congestion, and bringing some drinks and snacks in the car makes the journey more relaxing. The holiday toll-free policy not only offers great savings but also adds a sense of freedom to the trip, killing two birds with one stone.
