Planning your journey

Before you drive abroad, it’s vital that you know the rules and practices related to driving in the country you’re visiting. You’ll need to consider

• driving rules and regulations, such as speed limits and which side of the road to drive on
• what documentation is needed for the country you’re visiting
• whether you have the right insurance and breakdown cover
• equipment that you must carry by law, such as warning triangles.

You’ll also need to decide whether to take your own vehicle or hire one when you get there.

The major motoring organisations, the AA and RAC, can help you to organise and plan the details of your trip.

They can

• save you time and money
• set up medical, travel and vehicle insurance
• provide equipment for minor repairs and breakdowns
• help you organise the correct documents for your car, trailer or caravan.

You can often make your trip much easier by using their facilities and experience.

Regulations

Speed limits

There are speed limits in all countries, but they vary from country to country. The motoring organisations provide a list of these various speed limits on their websites. Make sure you know the limits for those countries you’ll be travelling through. Many countries have severe on-the-spot fines for offenders, while others prosecute through the courts.

Alcohol and driving

Don’t drink alcohol and drive. The laws and penalties abroad are often more severe than those in the UK.

Passengers

Never take more passengers than your vehicle is built to carry. Make sure you use your seat belts and that everyone is secure before setting out on any journey.

Tunnels

Be aware that some tunnels in Europe can be several miles in length. Make sure you comply with any regulations that apply to them.

Plates

You need to display

• a registration plate on your caravan or trailer, if you’re towing one
• a nationality plate of the approved size and design at the rear of your vehicle and caravan or trailer.

Documents

Insurance

Third-party motor vehicle insurance is compulsory in most countries. Contact your insurer to make sure you’re adequately covered.

Most insurance policies issued in the UK automatically provide third-party cover in EC countries as well as in some others. They don’t provide comprehensive cover unless you arrange this with your insurer, which may charge an extra premium.

Make sure you have the appropriate insurance certificate with you.

Your driving licence

You must carry your national driving licence when driving abroad. Even if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP), take your national licence too.

If you want to drive a hired or borrowed vehicle in the country you’re visiting, ask about minimum age requirements in case they apply to you.

The hire company may also ask for a ‘check code’ so they can view your driving licence. You can find out how to get this code at www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence

International Driving Permit

Many non-EC countries still require an IDP. To qualify for one, you must be 18 or over.

To apply you’ll need

• your driving licence
• a passport-sized photograph
• a fee.

Major motoring organisations and the Post Office can issue your IDP.

Note 17 year-olds aren’t allowed to drive in most European countries.

Vehicle registration certificate

You must carry the original vehicle registration certificate with you.

If you don’t have your vehicle registration certificate, apply to a vehicle registration office for a temporary certificate of registration (V379). Apply through your local post office well in advance of your journey.

If you plan to hire, borrow or lease a vehicle, you must ensure you have all the relevant documents before you drive.

Blue Badges

If you hold a Blue Badge you should take it with you. Many European countries recognise this badge and allow special parking for any vehicle displaying it.

Passport/visa

All persons travelling must hold an up-to-date passport, valid for all countries through which they intend to travel. Carry your passport(s) at all times.

Keep a separate note of the number, date and place of issue of each passport, in case they’re stolen or lost.

Travellers need a visa for some European countries. Check well in advance with the embassies or consulates concerned. This is particularly important if you hold a UK passport not issued in this country, or the passport of any other country.

Medical expenses insurance

You’re strongly advised to take out comprehensive medical insurance cover for any trip abroad.

Most medical treatment can be obtained free of charge or at reduced cost from the healthcare schemes of countries with which the UK has reciprocal healthcare arrangements. However, you shouldn’t rely on these arrangements alone.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

This is issued free of charge and can be used to cover medical treatment for either an incident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA).

The quickest and easiest way to get an EHIC is to apply online.

For more information, visit nhs.uk/nhsengland/healthcareabroad You can also apply by phone on 0300 330 1350 or pick up an EHIC form from a post office.

Carnet de Passage

If you’re planning to take your own vehicle outside Europe you may need a Carnet de Passage. This is a customs document required in some countries to temporarily import a vehicle duty-free.

Equipment

In many countries, emergency equipment must be carried. Check with the motoring organisations to find out what’s required in the countries you’ll be visiting. This equipment may include the following.

Advance warning triangle

The use of a warning triangle is compulsory in most countries for all vehicles with more than two wheels. Hazard warning lights shouldn’t be used instead of a triangle, but in addition to it. Some countries require two advance warning triangles.

Fluorescent vests

In some countries, such as France, the law requires motorists to carry a fluorescent vest in their vehicle and to put it on before leaving the vehicle if they’re involved in a breakdown or incident.

Spare bulbs

Some countries require you to carry a spare set of bulbs in your vehicle.

Fire extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is compulsory in some countries and strongly recommended.

First-aid kit

Make sure your vehicle carries a first-aid kit. It’s compulsory in some countries and strongly recommended in many others.

Breathalyser

In France it’s now compulsory for all motorists (except moped riders) to carry a breathalyser in their vehicle.

Winter equipment

Winter tyres are a legal requirement in many countries during certain periods of the year. Winter tyres provide a better grip on the road than normal tyres and are suitable for use in icy, snowy and wet conditions.

Snow chains are compulsory in some parts of Europe (depending on local conditions), although different countries have different snow-chain laws, so it’s important to check these before travelling abroad. When fitting them, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and, if in any doubt, seek help from a qualified professional.

Only use snow chains when the road surface is covered in snow or ice. If you try to use chains on a road that has been cleared of snow and gritted, you risk damaging the road surface and your vehicle.

In some countries you may be required to carry skis, or anything else you carry on your roof, in a purpose-made box, securely fitted to your roof rack.