Driving holidays are the perfect way to see the best of what a destination has to offer. However, they can be stressful if you’re unsure of the rules and regulations of the country you visit.
But don’t let that put you off! With a little preparation, you’ll have everything you need to drive off into the sunset. Check out some of our top tips when planning a driving holiday…
Documents you need
- Full and valid licence – make sure your licence is in date
- Proof of ID/passport
- Motor insurance certificate
- Motor registration document (V5)
- UK country identifier if travelling in Europe (sticker or on number plate)
Check your insurance
Most insurance companies give you third-party cover if you’re travelling abroad. However, it’s vital to check the level of cover before you leave the country.
You may need a green card depending on the country you’re travelling to. This comes from your insurer and basically proves you have valid insurance. For more information on insurance requirements, check out gov.uk.
Get travel insurance
Together with car insurance, travel insurance is a must. This protects you if you have an accident and obtain injuries while abroad and covers hospital admissions and medication costs.
Obtain a travel visa if needed
Some countries require a visa for entry. Up until recently, UK residents didn’t need one for European getaways. However, there is an upcoming change, which will require visitors to pay an ETIAS waiver for short stays within the EU.
Arrange breakdown cover
Some car insurance policies provide breakdown cover for an additional fee. But it’s certainly worth it if you don’t have it. There’s nothing worse than trying to arrange a tow, especially if you don’t speak the language fluently.
Do you need an international driving permit (IDP)?
Some countries require an international driver’s permit, which must be obtained before travelling. If you’re making your way through several countries, you may need different IDPs for each country you drive in. Find out more about IDPs on the gov.uk website and check whether you need one for your travels.
Category BE on driving licence for towing
Are you towing a trailer or caravan on your driving holiday? You might need an additional category added to your driving licence. Category B+E identifies drivers who can drive a car and trailer/caravan combination of up to seven tonnes.
If you’re towing over 750kg, check if your licence shows the BE category. If not, complete a D1 application form and send it to the DVLA to add it on.
Clean air zone stickers/permits
Clean Air Zones are nothing new for drivers in the UK. However, while we pay a charge for entering these zones (depending on your vehicle’s emissions), other countries have different rules.
For example, several European cities require an environmental sticker displayed on your windscreen. This label typically identifies the emissions level your car falls into. In some cases, there are restrictions on vehicles through these zones. The consequences of not displaying the right sticker – a fine!
Before you travel, be sure to check if you need an environmental sticker to avoid any issues.
Check country driving rules
Like the UK, other countries have rules and regulations to keep drivers safe. Speed limits are often the most common area of confusion because if you’re driving in Europe, they’re measured in km/h. For example, in Spain, motorway speed must not exceed 120km/h, which is just under 75mph.
It’s not only driving speeds that differ. Most other countries drive on the right side of the road. This can cause stress and confusion, especially at junctions and roundabouts. It’s advisable to read up on road etiquette too, because things like angrily beeping your horn at other drivers could land you a fine.
Essential items you need in the car when driving abroad
Alongside all the important documents you need for travel, there are several other vital items to keep in your vehicle. This includes:
Warning triangle and reflective jackets
In case of a breakdown, a warning triangle and reflective jackets will ensure other drivers see your car and passengers. In some countries, it is a legal requirement to carry these items. Plus, some rules state it needs to be kept in easy reach and not in the boot.
Breathalyser
You must carry a breathalyser as part of your driving kit in France. Other countries sometimes advise the same.
Spare change
On the continent, toll roads are a common occurrence. While many have now updated to contactless payments, it’s always handy to have spare change just in case.
Snow chains
In areas where snow is a prevalent feature, snow chains are compulsory. For example, signage indicates where you need to use snow chains in Switzerland.
Headlight converter stickers
Many European countries require UK drivers to apply headlight or beam deflector stickers. This helps to minimise dazzle and adjusts them for use on the right-hand side of the road. Some car models can manually adjust the beam, so check your handbook for details.
Sat-nav
If you’re new to driving abroad, a sat-nav will be your new best friend. Not only does it give you directions to your destination, but it also highlights speed limit changes. Failing that, keep a traditional road map in your car in case of emergencies.
Warm clothing
Feeling comfortable is essential if you’re waiting for hours for breakdown assistance. Evening temperatures can drop quickly in many countries, so keep warm clothing or blankets to hand.
Check specific country requirements before you travel
Each country has specific rules and laws regarding everything from speeding and drink-driving limits to low emission zones and compulsory travel essentials. Before you head off, ensure everything is in place to avoid issues or hold-ups on route to the destination.
