It's holiday season and you may well be among the 16 million (according to ONS Travel Trends 2012) Brits who head for the warmer shores of Spain and France for their fix of sun!
The majority of travellers will fly to their European destination but have you considered driving? It does add an element of adventure to a holiday!
If you are driving to Europe, there are a few things you need to plan and if you are leasing a car you’ll need to get in touch with your leasing company.
Here’s our handy checklist to get your road-trip started.
Drive a lease car? Get in touch with your lease company. They will provide you with a letter confirming you are the driver of the vehicle and that they give you permission to take the vehicle abroad as well as a VE103R "Vehicle on Hire Certificate."
As well as this letter and certificate you’ll also need:
- Full UK driving license
- Valid passport
- Foreign motor insuranc
- European breakdown cover
- Personal travel insurance
It’s a good idea to create a ‘travel pack’ - keeping all your essential paperwork together in one place.
You will also need to get main dipped light deflectors; otherwise your lights will blind every driver coming in the opposite direction. These can be bought from any Halfords or other parts store.
Do you have a GB Euro number plate? If not you’ll need to display GB stickers – no GB plate or sticker may result in an on-the-spot fine.
Don’t just jump in your car and drive! There are simple things you can do yourself to make sure your car is in good, roadworthy condition such as checking your tyre pressures and tread and topping up your oil and checking your coolant level. It’s worth creating an emergency kit too – include a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, tool kit, torch and blanket.
Always check what compulsory in-car equipment is required. For example, in July 2012 it became compulsory for all cars on French roads to carry a portable breathalyser. Motorists in France are also legally obliged to carry a warning triangle and fluorescent vests for each occupant of the car.
Road trips can be fun but remember to pay attention to the road at all times, don't drive when tired and break up your trip with regular stops! Happy motoring