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Mar
If you’re taking your car abroad, there are a few steps to take to make it a success. From getting your car prepped for the journey to packing the right items, our guide will help you prepare for your road trip abroad.
What to check on your car before your journey
If you’re about to drive long distance, there are a few things you can check to ensure your car will make the journey. It can be best to conduct these checks in good time, just in case something isn’t as it should be and you need to get it fixed.
Fluids
There are a few fluids that you can easily check yourself. This includes the engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid and windscreen washer fluid. You can look under the hood of your car to check the levels of these.
If any are below the required level, make sure to top them up with the correct fluid for your vehicle.
Tyres
One of the most important checks is for your tyres. You should check they are all at the correct pressure level. You can check the required tyre pressure for your car in your vehicle handbook or by looking online. If one or more tyres seems considerably low, you may find it helpful to take it to a garage to make sure it doesn’t have a slow puncture.
You should also check your tyre tread. It should be above the legal limit of 1.6mm – you can measure with a gauge or use a 20p coin. Simply insert the coin into the groove – if you can’t see the outer edge of the coin, your tread is fine. However, if you can still see the outer band, your tread is too low and you should look to get your tyre replaced.
You should also think about how you will deal with a puncture when you’re driving abroad. Do you have a spare tyre that you can take with you? If so, you will need to also pack the required tools, such as a jack and the locking wheel nut.
Lights
Before you set off on your road trip abroad, you should check all your lights are working. This will include your headlights, brake lights and signals. In some countries, it is mandatory to carry a spare set of bulbs with you when you drive. Even in countries where this is not the law, it can be a good idea to carry spares, to keep you and others safe when you drive.
Brakes
It can be beneficial to take your car for a test drive before your journey abroad to ensure the brakes are working correctly. If they squeal, grind, feel spongy or in any way wrong, you should take your vehicle to a garage for a checkup. It may be that your brake fluid needs topping up or the brake pads need replacing.
Wipers
You should test the wipers to make sure they’re in working order. If they don’t clear the windscreen thoroughly, it may be that they need replacing. You should also make sure you have a way of cleaning the inside of the windscreen to maintain visibility. You may want to take a windscreen cleaning spray or wipes with you on your trip.
Climate control
Before your road trip, you should also check your climate control system. Whether you’re going to a cold country and will need the heating, or your going to a warm location and will benefit from air conditioning, you’ll want to ensure it’s working properly. You’ll also need your fans to help keep the windscreen clear, so it’s essential this system is working correctly.
Documents to carry with you for international driving
Different countries may require you to carry different documents when you drive there. Generally, if you are driving your own car abroad, you will need the following:
- Driving licence
- Car insurance certificate
- Vehicle logbook (V5C)
- Passports for you and your passengers
- Travel insurance details
Depending on the country, you may also need:
- Green card from insurer
- International driving permit
- Travel visa
You should carry all these documents with you when you drive abroad. You may be asked to show them if you get stopped on your journey and could face a fine if you are unable to produce them.
What to take in the car for your road trip
UK sticker
If you’re driving a UK-registered vehicle abroad and number plate has the Euro symbol, the Union Jack flag with GB, the English, Scottish, or Welsh flag, or has no flag or identifier at all, you will need a UK sticker.
This should be a white sticker with black letters, at least 8cm high. You should place it on the rear of your vehicle so it can be seen clearly.
In most countries, if your vehicle already has a UK identifier on the number plate, you won’t need the sticker as well. However, in Spain, Cyprus, Malta, and some countries outside the EU, you will need to display a sticker regardless of what’s on the number plate.
Reflective jacket and warning triangle
In some countries, it is mandatory for drivers to carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle in their car, to be used in case of a breakdown. It can be helpful to carry at least two jackets in the car, if you’re driving with multiple people. Some countries also require you to carry two warning triangles, so it’s always best to check the rules for the country you’re travelling to.
Snow chains
If you’re taking a road trip abroad during the winter, you may need snow chains. In many countries, such as Austria, Finland, and Germany, winter chains are compulsory in certain weather conditions. They may be mandatory even if you have winter tyres fitted.
You should check the rules of the country you’re travelling to and practice putting the chains on and off before your trip. It can be beneficial to use snow chains in some places, even if it isn’t compulsory.
Warm clothing
It can be helpful to pack an extra jumper or coat for yourself, and even a blanket for your passengers. This can be beneficial if you plan to drive at night or if you will be travelling in cold temperatures. It can also come in handy if you breakdown and find yourself stuck somewhere.
Water and snacks
If you’ll be driving for long stretches, you should ensure you have plenty of water and snacks to keep you and your passengers going. You should aim to take plenty of breaks during your journey, but if you’re driving through rural areas with limited dining options, having your own food will keep you fuelled up.
Portable charger/car charger
Taking a car charger or portable power bank with you on your journey will mean you can keep your phone charged up at all times. This can be handy if you need to use it as a sat nav or to call the emergency services if you have an accident or need to call breakdown assistance.
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