General Advice Driving Abroad

As A Driver or Pedestrian Abroad

Be aware that when driving abroad you may find that the local driving style may be different to that in the UK.

This advise is also important to you as a pedestrian. Remember traffic may come from the opposite direction to what you expect and don't assume that all drivers will stop at zebra crossings - they don't!

As a pedestrian take a torch if walking at night especially in dimly lit areas and where road/path surfaces can be uneven.

Top Tips When Driving Abroad in Europe

  1. Don't Drive when you are tired and take regular breaks, driving abroad can be more exhausting.
  2. Always wear a seatbelt and ensure all passengers do.
  3. Don't drink and drive, the amount of alcohol allowed in your bllod stream may be lower than that in the UK and some countries have a zero tolerance for drink driving.
  4. Often when abroad you have lots of luggage, just make sure you do not overload your car, make sure you can see out of the back window. Remember you can always buy a roofbox for your luggage.

Hiring a Car Abroad

  1. Always hire from a reputable company. Check the insurance cover provided and to protect you from the often excessive car hire excess charges think about taking additional car hire excess insurance.
  2. If taking your hire car on a ferry enter the car details as "rental" as you may not know at time of booking what car you will be given.
  3. Compare prices for the best deals - it is often cheaper to pre book, try Compare Car Rental who compare prices from many leading car rental providers.

Hiring a Motorbike Abroad

  1. Always hire from a reputable company. Check the company is licensed to hire bikes to tourists.
  2. If taking your hired motorcycle on a ferry enter the bike details as "rental" as you may not know at time of booking what motorbike you will be given.
  3. Check the insurance cover provided and check the exclusions carefully.
  4. There should never be more than two people on a motorbike.

Compulsory Equipment Required When Driving Abroad

Before taking your car abroad you must make sure you have all the compulsory equipment required and we strongly recommend other equipment when driving in Europe. We have produced a guide which provides full details of what you will need.

We have partnered with the Halfords in offering you great value products and prices for all your motoring accessories.

 

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Top Tips - Did You Know

  • Radar Detectors & Sat Nav with Speed Camera Locations
    The use or possession of devices to detect police radar is illegal in most European countries. Penalties can include a fine, driving ban or even imprisonment.

  • Reflective Jackets & Warning Triangles in France
    From October 2008 all drivers in France, which includes drivers of vehicles registered outside of France, must have one warning triangle and one reflective jacket in their vehicle. Penalties include on the spot fines of between €90 - €135.
  • GB Stickers are Compulsory
    GB Stickers are compulsory within the EU unless your UK registration plates display the GB Euro-symbol (Europlates).