Taking your own car abroad, or hiring one once you land, means adjusting to rules and road habits that can differ significantly from what you're used to at home. A little preparation before you set off avoids awkward surprises at the border or on unfamiliar roads.
Paperwork and legal requirements
Check well in advance what documents and equipment are legally required in the countries you'll be driving through, since requirements vary and change. Depending on the country, you may need a valid driving licence recognised there, proof of insurance that covers driving abroad, a warning triangle, a high-visibility vest for each occupant, headlamp beam deflectors if driving on the opposite side of the road to home, and a first aid kit. Confirm with your insurer, well before you travel, exactly what cover applies outside the UK and for how long.
Adjusting to different roads
Driving on the opposite side of the road takes conscious concentration, especially at junctions, roundabouts, and when pulling away from a parked position — these are the moments drivers most often revert to habit by mistake. Speed limits and their units may also differ, so know whether you're reading kilometres per hour or miles per hour, and be aware some countries have lower default limits in wet weather or use variable tolls and charges for certain roads or city zones.
- Check whether tolls apply and how they're paid on your route.
- Look up any low-emission or city-centre zones that require a permit or sticker.
- Note any differences in drink-drive limits, which are often stricter than at home.
- Plan fuel stops if travelling through remote areas, since not all fuel types are available everywhere.
On the day
Get a good night's sleep before a long drive and build in more rest stops than you think you'll need — fatigue affects concentration faster in an unfamiliar driving environment. Keep a note of local emergency numbers and your breakdown cover details somewhere easily accessible, not just saved on a phone that might run out of charge.
Driving abroad is straightforward once you've settled in, but the first hour is where most mistakes happen. Sort the paperwork, know the rules, and give yourself time to adjust before you're relying on instinct.
