Driving to Ramsgate - do I avoid the toll?

[Sundaymoney28]

First time driving from North Wales to Ramsgate (long drive) and first time driving this far before.
I have to make the journey, despite hating long journeys.
Google maps say there is a toll road on the M25.
I can screenshot if easier as not exactly sure whereabouts.

However, I lost my card yesterday so only have cash on me, so thinking whether it is best to avoid the toll road as google maps has an alternative route for if you want to avoid tolls.

Not sure what"s best though. Any tips?
Also any tips for someone who hates long journeys. I feel quite anxious going somewhere i've never been before on a 5 hour journey by myself

@HalfCakeHalfBiscuit

Drive through central London to avoid the Dartford crossing

It would take twice as long at least to do thhat section. Of the journey and the OP would pay more in congestion charges than the minimal charge for Dartford. Great advice! 🤣🤣🤣

Glad you sorted out the toll!

Tips for driving long distances are make sure you take breaks in the journey. Stop at a service station on the motorway but take your own drinks from home if you don’t want to pay their prices, have a drink, something to eat and a wee, but more important spend a good few minutes having a walk around to stretch out your legs and back. If you start to get really tired then stop. Better to get to your destination later than never.

Wear comfortable flat shoes, no heels.

Check your car before you set out, oil, tyres, screen wash, fuel.

Have emergency supplies in case you do get stuck in a massive tailback. (And a thick towel and a plastic bag for OMG three hours in a queue emergencies!)

If you do break down on the motorway try to get to the left hand lane if you can and use an emergency telephone rather than your own phone if possible. WHEN WAITING FOR THE RESCUE GET OUT OF THE CAR AND STAND BEHIND THE BARRIER.

It's easy peasy to pay for the Dartford Crossing in advance using the government website. I did it just last week. Here's a link www.gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge

[quote Sundaymoney28]@FromageRay thank you :) my main stress is taken away with the toll bridge.
I have borrowed cash off my parents to keep me afloat... i know cash is a bit awkward during covid times but i have no other alternative [/quote]
It's really not a big deal. You can either pay it in advance of within 24 hrs of travelling. It's something like £2 from memory? Certainly not something to be worried about! Have a lovely trip.

[quote Sundaymoney28]**@Paddybare* @Floralnomad*

Paying online would be perfect as I can transfer money to a friend to pay over me for now
I'd rather not encounter a toll I have to pay on the spot, as i have a few pound change but would rather not have the stress of counting pennies as I am not used to carrying cash, so really only have notes [/quote]
Don't worry, there are no toll gates and that will not happen. It you don't pay you get a shitty email based on your number plate and only if you still do not pay after that do you get fined.