If you’re going on an overseas holiday with your car, there are a few things you should be aware of before setting off. Let’s find out more.
So you’ve decided to take your car on holiday this year rather than hire one when you get there? What a great idea. There are so many good reasons for choosing to drive your own car abroad. Firstly, it’s your car, so you know where all the buttons are without needing to consult the manual. Your car is comfortable and you like how it drives. It’s got all the boot space you need for your luggage. Driving your vehicle abroad instead of hiring could even be a money saver.
But before you set off, there are a few things you need to know. Driving in Europe isn’t the same as it is here in the UK – and you don’t want to risk your safety or fall foul of any rules. In this article, we’ll share the our key tips for driving in Europe, so you can plan your trip with confidence. Let’s get started.
Driving on the right
Unless you’re going to the Republic of Ireland, Malta or Cyprus, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road. It can take a while to get used to, especially if you haven’t done it before. However, if you take extra care and focus, you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Remember, this means that you overtake on the left-hand side on motorways or dual carriageways. If you’re on a narrow lane and another car approaches you, you pull over to the right to let them through. On a roundabout, you give way to the left.
The key is to take your time and leave extra space between you and the car in front, so you can be more deliberate with your manoeuvres. Eventually, it’ll become second nature
The rules of the road
Each European country sets its own road rules, with slight differences between them all. For example, in Germany, there’s no speed limit on the Autobahn.
Before you go, take time to familiarise yourself with the rules in the country you’re holidaying in. Here are some rules to check:
- What kit do you need? – You may need a kit bag with items including a reflective triangle and a hi-vis jacket. In France, you need to carry a breathalyser in your car. (You can purchase a complete continental driving kit at H&L Motors)
- Lights on or off? – In some European countries, including Poland and Sweden, you need to keep your headlights on at all times
- Stop or go? – In some countries, you can turn right at red traffic lights. Ensure you know whether you’re allowed to, or your fellow drivers will not be impressed!
- Check your headlights – In most European countries, it’s compulsory to adjust your headlights for the right-hand side of the road so your beam doesn’t dazzle drivers coming towards you. Some vehicles give you the option to convert your beam for driving on the continent. Otherwise, you need special stickers available in motoring shops. If you are not sure, please pop by and we’ll check for you
- What documents do I need? – Across Europe, drivers must carry their driving licence, insurance documents and car registration details. Make sure you have everything you need
Finally, since September 2021, the GB sign you used to display on your car (either as a sticker or as part of your number plate) is no longer valid. To identify your vehicle as one from the UK, you must display a new UK sticker, or have a number plate with the letters ‘UK’ on the side.
Know where you’re going
Here are some more tips to make your journey go more smoothly:
- Plan your route before you go. Even if your sat-nav or maps app works abroad, you’ll feel more comfortable if you know where you’re going
- Always have your debit card or some cash to hand for tolls
- Consider purchasing European Breakdown Cover, just in case
- Make sure your car insurance covers you for driving abroad. In most cases, it’s included, but you may need to let your insurance company know beforehand
Is your car ready for the trip?
Finally, it’s a good idea to ensure your car is in the best condition for your holiday. After all, car issues while you’re away could put a serious downer on a happy occasion.
Ensure you have enough oil in your engine and that your tyres are properly inflated. Remember, it’s always best to go to a specialist technician to check your tyre pressure rather than a petrol station. We calibrate our pressure gauges and store them securely, rather than keeping them outside where they can be damaged by the elements and lose their accuracy.
If you’re going somewhere hot, treat yourself to an air-conditioning service. You’ll be glad you did!
All that remains is to wish you safe and happy holiday travels. If you have any questions or concerns about driving abroad, you can always call H&L Motors on 020 8977 5865 and we’ll be glad to help you.
