5 Things To Consider For A Summer European Road Trip

Aerial view Realp village and Reuss river Switzerland

Europe is a fantastic destination for a driving holiday thanks to its well-connected roads and stunning views along the way.  

We recently researched the best road trips in Europe and found that the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland was the best, with Transfăgărășan in Romania and the North Coast 500 in Scotland following closely behind.  

If you’re planning on undertaking one of these road trips this summer, or if you have one of your own in mind, we’ve compiled a list of things to consider when driving across Europe. 

1. Make sure you have all the right documents  

Like any other holiday, a road trip around Europe requires essential documents to ensure your trip runs smoothly and you’re able to move freely.  

The usual documents for a holiday overseas include: 

  • A valid passport  
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Health insurance documents 

However, when bringing your car along there are extra things to consider:  

  • Full, valid driving license   
  • V5C certificate  
  • European breakdown cover policy documents
  • Crit’air stick (a clean air sticker needed in some regions of France)  
  • UK car sticker 

It’s best to gather all your documents well ahead of your travel and keep them in a sealed folder in your car, or somewhere easily accessible at all times. If possible, print out the documents in case of any technical issues that may stop you accessing files digitally.  

2. Safety equipment is essential in some countries  

Driving laws in Europe require you to have access to specific safety equipment at all times. These include: 

  • A warning triangle  
  • Reflective jackets for each passenger  
  • Safety helmets for motorbikes and mopeds  
  • Headlamp deflectors (this is so you don’t dazzle other drivers when driving on the right side of the road) 
  • A first aid kit  

Not all of these are compulsory across every European country but it’s best to be prepared, especially if you plan on crossing borders on your travels.  

3. Ensure your insurance and breakdown cover extends to Europe 

Before you set off, it’s vital to make sure your insurance covers you whilst in European countries. Driving without insurance is illegal and whilst it may not be intentional, you could face some serious consequences if you are caught.  

Likewise with breakdown cover, it’s important for you to be set up correctly. Whilst no one wants to think about the prospect of breaking down on holiday, there’s always a chance it could happen and if you don’t have breakdown cover, you could be looking at a hefty price for recovery.  

Check these details prior to your journey and contact your provider if you have any questions.  

4. Check whether you need an International Driving Permit 

An International Driving Permit (IDP) isn’t a legal requirement in all European countries so you might not need one, but it’s always best to check. If you have pre-planned your route, you can find countries that require an IDP with tools online. However, if you don’t have a strict plan in place, it’s best to apply for one so that you’re covered, should you end up going to a country where it’s a requirement.  

5. Make sure your car is healthy enough to go 

Giving your car a good health check ahead of your journey is essential. Make sure everything is in good working order and that your car will be able to withstand the length of the road trip by consulting a professional. They can do a full service and highlight any areas that may need looking at before you set off.  

Mechanic Holding Clipboard Car Service

It’s best to do this a couple of weeks before your holiday to give you enough time to address any issues that may arise.  

To explore more preparation tips before heading off on a road trip, read our guide to packing up your car. Or for more advice on looking after your car during the summer, read our expert blogs