Are you driving abroad for Christmas this year? Well, as the festive season draws ever nearer we thought we’d help you prep for the trip early with some handy hints to help you out.
Documentation
Documentation wise first and foremost you need a Great Britain or Northern Ireland driving license.
If you plan to drive in a non-EU country, you may also need an International Driving Permit.
You could also need any of the following:
- original vehicle registration document
- motor insurance certificate
- details of breakdown or travel insurance
- emergency contact numbers
- your passport
There could subsequently be a longer list of additional items required, so depending on where you are travelling be sure to check the laws for where you are headed.
A GB sticker or Euro plate including the same symbol are a must and many European countries have made carrying a warning triangle compulsory.
Signage
It’s highly recommended that you familiarise yourself with the following:
- Road signs
- speed limits
- low emission zones
- congestion charge schemes (Some may require registration prior to travel.)
This one may sound obvious, but remember to go the correct way around roundabouts when travelling abroad – they can very easily catch you out!
Car Maintenance
Headlights must not by law, dazzle other drivers when driving on the right-hand side of the road. This means that if your lights can not be adapted without them, it is best to be on the safe side. Carry a set of headlamp beam convertors in your vehicle.
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Aren’t we all?
You may already have winter tyres fitted, but keep in mind that snow chains are actually compulsory in some countries and that the levels of snow and slush can differ.
Insurance
Finally, you’re going to need the right insurance to cover your trip.
Within the EU your normal insurance automatically gives the minimum legal requirement for every country. It’s well worth checking that your vehicle breakdown cover either includes your destination, or can be extended to include it.
Be sure to tell your insurer in advance about your journey. They can make note on your policy and ask if there are any additional charges involved when driving abroad.
For the best insurance deals around, we can point you towards Performance Direct and Grove & Dean. Performance Direct provide affordable vehicle cover for UK drivers and Grove & Dean are independent insurance brokers with breakdown recovery and EU cover options.
Wherever you are off to this Christmas, keep our tips in mind, stay safe and enjoy your trip this festive season!
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