Useful information
Top tips for driving abroad
By doing some preparation well in advance of your journey, driving abroad needn't be any more demanding or stressful than driving at home.
While some people take their vehicles abroad on business or out of necessity, many others take theirs to go on holiday. Naturally, this should be a period of relaxation and pleasure, so here are some top tips to help you plan and prepare for your chosen destination or multiple destinations and to help your trip go as smoothly and worry-free as possible.
Planning your journey
- Do some in-depth research on the country or countries through which you intend to travel
- Gather information to identify your best routes either on-line, or by requesting information from tourist offices from where you'll be able to obtain maps, guides, etc.
- Check your passport(s) are current
- Check you driving licence(s) are valid for Europe
- Make sure you have adequate European breakdown cover.
Preparing for your journey
- Check the overall condition of your vehicle, assess its suitability to making the trip and make sure its in top running condition by getting it serviced if necessary. Pay particular attention to the condition of your tyres (including the spare)
- Check that your vehicle has the right jack and wheel nut tools
- If your vehicle car is fitted with a wheel security device, make sure you have the right release key or tool
- Inform your insurance company of your intention to travel abroad and make sure you know what to do in the event of an accident.
Make sure your car has:
- A rear GB sticker
- Headlight beam deflectors.
Make sure you carry:
- A warning triangle
- A complete set of bulbs
- A first aid kit
- A fire extinguisher.
Note that different countries have different mandatory requirements, i.e. in the event of a breakdown, reflective jackets are now a legal requirement in France.
On the day of your journey
- Take a spare set of keys. To start your vehicle, you'll first need to get in it.
- Give yourself plenty of time to get to your point of departure (i.e. port ). Relax, stay calm and remember the drink/drive laws.
Once you're under way
- Adjust your mirrors to accommodate any new driving positions
- Be cautious - especially at junctions and on roundabouts
- Always obey the rules of the road. Being a tourist is no excuse for not knowing the rules
- Remain vigilant at all times - especially those first few hours.
For further information a dedicated website, http://www.aboutdrivingabroad.co.uk provides greater detail.