When is the National Day highway toll-free period?

[MiguelMarie]

The National Day highway toll-free period is from 0:00 on October 1st to 24:00 on October 8th. For ordinary toll roads, the toll-free status is determined by the time when the vehicle passes through the toll station or toll lane, while for highways, it is determined by the time when the vehicle exits the toll lane at the highway exit. Additionally, the toll-free vehicles are limited to passenger vehicles with fewer than 7 seats traveling on toll roads, including motorcycles allowed on ordinary toll roads. For example, if you enter the highway at 21:00 on September 30th and exit at 1:00 on October 1st, the entire trip is toll-free. However, if you enter the highway at 23:00 on October 8th and exit at 0:05 on October 9th, exceeding the 24:00 deadline, the entire trip will be charged.

[MacAdriana]

I think the free highway access during the National Day holiday is quite practical. It usually starts at 00:00 on October 1st and ends at 24:00 on October 7th, lasting for seven days. I often take my family on road trips during the National Day holiday, and taking advantage of this free period can save a significant amount on toll fees. For example, last year when I drove from Beijing to Hangzhou, I saved nearly 1,000 yuan. The free access only applies to small passenger vehicles with seven seats or fewer; vans and trucks still have to pay as usual. I recommend planning your trip early, especially avoiding peak hours on October 1st and 7th, as these are the most congested days. Before setting off, remember to check tire pressure and brake system safety, and prepare water and food in case of long traffic jams. With more vehicles on the road, accidents are more likely, so stay alert while driving. Enjoy the holiday, but make sure to arrive home safely for peace of mind.

[McIsabelle]

The National Day free expressway period is consistently from 00:00 on October 1st to 24:00 on October 7th. Having driven on expressways for over a decade, I deeply appreciate the benefits of this policy. The free access is limited to small passenger vehicles with seven seats or fewer, while large trucks or tourist buses are still subject to tolls. From my experience, the first and last days are the most congested. If planning a trip, choosing mid-period dates like around October 3rd usually means fewer travelers. If you're caught in an exit queue when the free period ends, you might be charged, so it's wise to time your journey and avoid cutting it too close. Always check real-time traffic conditions using navigation apps to bypass congested areas. Last year, I was stuck on the Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway for two hours—thankfully, I had brought snacks to tide me over. A friendly reminder: holiday traffic is heavy, and accidents are frequent, so driving slowly and prioritizing safety is paramount.

[RyderLynn]

Regarding the National Day expressway toll-free policy, according to national regulations, it is free from October 1st to October 7th. I understand this policy aims to encourage tourism consumption and reduce financial burdens. The free passage applies to small passenger vehicles with seven seats or fewer, while other vehicles are charged normally. Remember to take a card at the entrance and return it upon exit to confirm the free passage; for ETC users, the toll will be automatically waived. During peak periods like the first and last days, traffic congestion can be severe. I recommend traveling during off-peak hours or choosing nighttime driving to reduce waiting time. Don’t forget to prepare by checking your vehicle’s condition in advance to prevent accidents, ensuring safe driving and enjoying the holiday.

[MacFelicity]

The National Day holiday expressway toll exemption starts at 00:00 on October 1st and ends at 24:00 on October 7th. I really like this arrangement as it saves money for travel. I've made plans with friends for a self-drive trip to nearby places, and the toll exemption can save us hundreds in road fees. We booked our route and scenic spots a week in advance to avoid crowds. The exemption is only valid for small passenger vehicles, not large ones, so make sure to confirm the seating capacity before renting a car. During peak hours, everyone sets off at once, leading to traffic jams. I recommend starting in the afternoon or evening when there are fewer people. Bring some snacks and drinks in case of delays; last year, the expressway service areas were so crowded that we almost couldn't get a meal. Safety first—don't get distracted by your phone while driving to ensure a pleasant journey.

[LeJourney]

The National Day highway toll-free period starts at 12:00 AM on October 1st and lasts until 12:00 PM on October 7th. I emphasize that travel safety during holidays is paramount. The toll-free policy applies to passenger vehicles with seven seats or fewer, excluding trucks—don't get it wrong and be disappointed for nothing. With surging traffic volume and increased accident risks, it's advisable to perform vehicle maintenance in advance to ensure brakes and tires are in good condition. Consider off-peak travel, such as October 2nd or 6th, to avoid congestion, and use navigation apps to bypass traffic jams in real time. Bring an emergency kit and food supplies, as I've witnessed dangerous situations where rescue vehicles couldn't reach stranded motorists during peak hours. Drive patiently, avoid speeding, and remember that arriving home safely is the true way to enjoy the toll-free benefits.