7 Suggestions For Driving With Success Abroad

7 Suggestions For Driving With Success Abroad

Talk to anyone who has used car hire or who has taken their own car abroad, and they'll say that it is an experience that will bring plenty of surprises, and maybe even the occasional fright! There will lots of occasions when you will feel lost when driving far from home, but survive the experience and you'll be sure to come out the other end an improved driver. If you are thinking of taking it up for the first time, or just could do with a helpful reminder, then our handy suggestions will give you all the information you will need for your trip...

• Expect the unexpected

It's advised to approach driving in a new country with extreme caution. Make sure to always be aware of your position on the road. Most countries on mainland Europe drive on the right-hand side of the road, whilst in the UK, cars travel on the left. Keep this in mind when driving on roundabouts. Buy a good SAT NAV and/or Maps if you haven't already, and don't forget to download the most up-to-date maps to your SAT NAV to limit your chance of travelling up roads that lead to nowhere.

• Familiarise yourself with the road signs

Be sure to look out for road signs and traffic lights. Road signs may seem the same across Europe but each country will differ slightly, so don't let this confuse you.Obey the speed limit. In Italy for instance fines are particularly heavy if you break the speed limit. Each country speed limit will differ slightly but the standard speed limits across Europe are 50km/h for built-up areas, 90km/h for outside built-up areas on ordinary roads, 110km/h on dual carriageways and 130km/h on motorways.

• Bring the right documents with you

When driving, make sure you have your driving licence with you, along with a International driving permit (IDP). Have the relevant insurance and breakdown cover in place too. Contact your driving motor insurer before you leave to ensure you have the required cover when driving abroad.

• Stay well away from city centres

Park your car and use public transport or taxis, rather than attempt driving in a city centre that you have never encountered before. To save yourself time use motorways. You're likely to encounter toll roads when you travel the motorways. Most countries in Europe will ask you to buy a special sticker or vignette, when driving on toll roads, which you should place on your car's front window. Failure to display a valid vignette will result in you being fined. If you are feeling adventureous and decide to take on driving in the city centre, try to avoid heavy traffic times and most important of all, remain calm. When you find yourself getting angry, resist the temptation to sound your car horn. In urban areas in Spain, sounding the horn at any time, except in an emergency, is strictly off limits. Lights may be flashed in place of using the horn.

• Bring along the correct kit

In many countries in mainland Europe, vehicles with more than two wheels must display a warning triangle. Drivers must also store a reflective jacket in their vehicle and not in the car boot (it must be worn when exiting the vehicle so therefore must be kept within the car), which has to be worn in the event of a breakdown or emergency outside a built up area. Some other countries require may ask you to carry a First-aid kit as well as a set of replacement bulbs and fuses.

• Take Regular Breaks

Driving in unfamiliar areas and concentrating on road signs can be exhausting. Be wise and pull up in a safe place to rest if you are feeling tired.

• Exercise some common sense

Don't forget basic safety. Ensure everyone is wearing their seatbelt, including you. Try not to get distracted by your SAT NAV whilst navigating your way around and resist the temptation to talk on your mobile whilst at the wheel.

So what's your thoughts on driving in a new country? Do you like it or loathe it? Let us know your thoughts by sharing your comments on our Facebook page.