Travelling to Europe?

General:

It is a good idea to find out as much as you can about the driving conditions in the country or countries you plan visit before leaving the UK and where you might require European Breakdown Cover. It's easy to forget to drive on the right where required so take extra time and care especially at busy junctions, city centres, etc. Remember that traffic approaching from the right usually has priority unless otherwise indicated by road signs.



Motoring Advice (See also European Travel Do's - Don'ts )

Preparation

Breakdown Cover
Make sure that you have adequate breakdown cover for Europe . International Breakdown provides a choice of either annual breakdown membership or for short stays or even day trips, Short Term European Breakdown Cover. Please call us on 0870 902 4700 giving 24 - 48 hours notice prior to traveling in order that we can ensure you European breakdown cover is in place before you set out on your journey

Your Vehicle
Make sure you vehicle is serviced well before departure date to lessen the chance of a costly breakdown during your trip abroad. Remember that our International Breakdown Cover extend from a motorcycle and cars to motorhomes and light commercial vehicles. Terms and Conditions apply.

GB sticker
You must display this sticker and if you do not comply you could receive an on-the-spot fine. Whilst Euro-Plates (i.e. number plates showing the GB Euro-symbol make the display of a conventional sticker unnecessary when driving within the EU) some countries outside the EU may still expect you to display the conventional GB sticker so it is always wise to do so.

Headlights
As you will be driving on the right in Europe with the exception of Republic of Ireland , Cyprus and Malta , you will need to adjust your headlights in order that the dipped beam does not dazzle oncoming drivers. Headlight beam converter kits are easily available but do check your manufacturer's handbook in case the main dealer needs to carry out the adjustments. Remove the beam converters upon your return to the UK .

Seat Belts
As in the UK front-/rear seat belts must be worn, if fitted, in the majority of European countries, however check the specific requirements before departure and make necessary changes as needed. Be mindful of any regulations in the country or countries in which you plan to travel regarding front-seat travel that may differ to those for passengers or children in UK .

You are advised to ensure the appropriate seat restraints are fitted as required.

Door/Wing Mirrors
If your vehicle is not equipped with a door- or wing-mirror on the left-hand side we recommend that you get one fitted to aid driving on the right.

Loading Note:
Do not takes chances with overloading the vehicle or trailer (note International Breakdown provide free trailer or caravan cover with every policy) apart from the safety risks involved; this may result in fines and even annul your insurance. Make sure all loads are secure whether on roof racks or in trailers. See also Car crime

Fuel
Leaded petrol is no longer generally available in Northern European countries and Lead Replacement Petrol (LRP) is getting more difficult to find. If LRP is not on sale, an anti-wear additive to add to lead fuel can usually be bought from a filling station shop.

Tyres and Brakes
Most countries demand a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm over the central three-quarters of the tread and around the whole circumference.
We advise you err on the side of safety and consider changing tyres if the tread's down to 3mm whether or not you are planning a trip you are going on holiday to Europe - as tyre wear increases very quickly when they get down 3mm.Tyre chains are important for any winter motoring and are compulsory in some countries even when using winter tyres. Ensure you brakes are working efficiently and have been included in the service prior to your trip abroad

Mobile Phones
The use of hand-held mobile 'phones whilst driving is prohibited in many countries as in the UK . If you require to call for emergency breakdown assistance, pull over when safe to do so, and then use your mobile 'phone. Alternatively ask a passenger to make the call on your behalf. Do not risk your own safety, that of your passenger's and other road users by attempting to manipulate your handset especially whilst driving in unfamiliar circumstances.

Insurance and Motoring Documents
Contact your UK Motor Insurer for advice at least a month prior to your departure abroad at which time you may also wish to check on travel insurance for Europe. Ensure the insurance cover taken is sufficient and that the necessary documents to prove it are to hand. You may be asked to show your documents for inspection at any time so make sure that they are easily accessible, in order and up to date to avoid a police fine and/or confiscation of your vehicle. These documents will include Motor Insurance certificate(s) see also below, a full Valid Driving licence (not provisional) supported by an International Driving Permit where necessary, DVLC vehicle registration document and your Passport(s). Note: in some countries you may need a visa if you hold either: a UK passport not issued in the UK OR a passport that was issued outside EEC.
If you're travelling in a vehicle other than a motor car or motorcycle or pulling a caravan or trailer make sure you have any additional insurance as needed, especially where trailer is carrying another vehicle, boat, PWC, etc.

Health Care
Whilst abroad as a visitor you and your family can obtain urgent medical help at reduced costs from the health-care schemes of those countries with which the UK has health-care arrangements although the cover is not always comprehensive. You can obtain more details in the Department of Health Booklet T6 from any main Post Office. It is wise to check any personal travel insurance scheme is adequate for you and your family's requirements during your trip.

Pets
Cats and dogs only are included in The Pets Travel Scheme (PETS). For more advice contact the PETS Helpline on 0870 241 1710 or go to the DEFRA website at www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/index.htm

Crime Prevention
Commonsense should prevail as in the U.K. , such as not leaving wallets, handbags, cameras and other attractive items in view at any time and never leave valuables in an unattended car. Never leave your keys in dash for even a few seconds whilst away from vehicle for example when paying for fuel.
Always lock you car when unattended and for advice on crime or personal safety in Europe call the Foreign Office Travel Advice Unit on 020 7008 0232/3 or go to their website at www.fco.gov.uk

Special Features
Many European countries demand that you to carry other equipment such as warning triangles, fire extinguishers, first aid kits replacement bulbs, fan belts, spark plugs, etc as well as obtaining certificates upon entry to certain countries and for some motorway driving. We advise researching these details well in advance for your trip abroad as failure to comply may result in a police fine or confiscation of your vehicle.