The top 5 things to know when driving abroad
A driving holiday can be a great idea if the idea of jetting somewhere far away is looking either too expensive or too much hard work. With the whole of Europe just a quick ferry or train ride away, it’s very liberating to take your own car and enjoy total mobility while you’re on holiday.
Of course, if your current car isn’t up to the task of taking you and your significant others away for a spell, it’s an ideal time to upgrade to one of many used cars for sale in UK – you could opt for something with more seats, or a more efficient engine.
Even if your car’s sorted, though, you’ll need to know some dos and don’ts for driving abroad. Here are our top tips.
1. Check specific guidance for the country you’re visiting
Most European countries have very similar driving laws to the UK, with the obvious exception that they all drive on the right-hand side of the road. But each one has its own specific guidelines that you need to follow if you don’t want to put yourself in the firing line for a fine or other driving penalty.
For example, in most countries further East than Germany, it’s a requirement that you use dipped headlights when driving during the day if your vehicle isn’t fitted with daytime running lights. In many Northern European countries, the use of all-season or winter tyres is mandatory between certain months. Some countries have lower speed limits in inclement weather, or require certain behaviour at unfamiliar junctions.
Many websites aggregate this information and you can often find it on the tourism website of the country you’re visiting. Swot up, and print off the information to take with you if you don’t trust yourself to remember it.
2. Stock up on supplies
There are two levels of this. The first is that you need to buy everything that the law of the country you’re driving in says is mandatory. This can range from a warning triangle and high-visibility jackets to a first-aid kit and spare bulbs for your car. Most of this kit is inexpensive, but can land you with a hefty fine if you’re stopped and found lacking.
Remember too that you’re required to display a ‘UK’ sticker on the back of your car – older ‘GB’ stickers, or number plates with the ‘GB’ designation are no longer valid.
Of course, even non-mandatory supplies are useful to have for a long road trip. So make sure you get yourself plenty of travel sweets, water, phone cables, and all the paraphernalia that makes driving easier.
3. Prepare for the right side of the road
After a lifetime driving on the left, swapping lanes can be a challenge. You can get yourself a sticker for your windscreen to remind you – though we find a post-it on the instrument panel works just as well.
Remember to adjust your headlights for right-hand traffic, either in the settings menu or by using beam adaptors. And if you have a front-seat passenger, train them to stay alert – your life will be made easier if they can help check your blindspot, check for oncoming traffic when overtaking, and pay tolls for you.
4. Bring your documentation
You’ll need to come well-supplied with paperwork for driving in Europe. We suggest bringing:
- Your driving licence
- Proof of insurance
- Your car’s V5
- International Driving Permit, if required
- Breakdown policy and contact numbers
- Travel insurance documents
5. Enjoy yourself!
Driving in Europe is a great way to see the continent, and a very freeing way to take a holiday. Stick to the speed limits, be safe, and remember to stop frequently in safe places so you can take plenty of pictures!
