Six things you need to check before a road trip abroad

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Excited to get away from it all for a while? You’re not alone. According to the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), 65% of Brits say their holiday is the most important time of year.

But let’s be honest: holidays, especially with a family, can be scarily expensive. Finding ways to make savings here and there is always helpful, and taking a road trip is just one way to enjoy a more affordable family break abroad. You can drive to several places in Europe, for example, and avoid the cost of planes, trains, and taxis. 

If you’re taking a family road trip abroad, you need to check that you have everything you need. Otherwise, you could overlook essential details and scupper your own holiday.

Photo credit Artur Zudin via Unsplash

Check Your Car Insurance

All vehicle insurance issued in the UK covers driving in EU countries, Switzerland, and a few other nations. But your policy may not offer coverage for some issues, such as car theft, outside the UK. 

Check with your insurer while planning your holiday to make sure you understand what they do and don’t cover. If you need to buy insurance add-ons before your trip, it might be worth doing, as without the right coverage, you could be left seriously out of pocket in an emergency.

Check Your Car’s Condition and Safety

Ask a trusted mechanic to examine your car well before your road trip abroad. They should perform a thorough safety check and highlight any points that need attention. 

Having your car examined is an extra expense, but it’s best to make sure your vehicle is reliable. You want to feel free to enjoy your holiday, not worried about your car surviving until the next stop. 

Check Your Digital Safety

You’re bound to depend on your phone while you’re away. But connecting to Wi-Fi networks and using apps abroad can create privacy risks.

Make sure you set up reliable security features and apps on your phone. For example, installing a virtual private network (VPN) can keep your data safe abroad. 

But check that your security measures are working before you enter any new country and go online. Asking “is my VPN working?” or “are my anti-theft features on?” can help you avoid security risks.

Check Your Kids’ Entertainment

Keeping your little (or not-so-little) ones happy on the road can be hard work. You may spend a few hours playing ‘I Spy’ and other games as a family, but you’ll all need some quiet time eventually. 

Downloading films and shows onto devices will give your kids extra entertainment when you need to focus on driving. Don’t like the idea of putting a gadget in your young child’s hand? Set strict time limits to stop them from overusing. 

Check Your Documents

For a family road trip abroad, you’ll need to pack the right documents to prove your identity and car ownership.

Some of the must-have items are:

● Driving licence

● Passport

● V5C logbook/certificate

● Proof of updated MOT and tax payments

● Travel insurance details

Unless your number plate features the UK identifier and Union Jack, put a UK sticker on your car’s rear. In some European countries (such as Spain), you’ll also need to carry a reflective jacket to wear in an emergency. Pack a warning triangle to display if you have an accident or break down, too.

Check Your Navigation and Guidance Apps

Navigation and guidance apps will come in handy when you’re driving abroad. Basic maps are standard on most phones, but you may need detailed ones for certain hikes or outdoor activities. 

You can also download apps offering insights into local traffic patterns, toll fees, and landmarks to help you find your way. 

But always check the privacy policies for apps before you install them, and read reviews written by other users. Make sure apps are safe, secure, and comply with data-handling regulations.

Preparing for Your Family Road Trip Abroad

Taking a family road trip is an amazing opportunity to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Plan your routes carefully, research destinations, understand exactly what’s expected of you as a foreign driver, and always follow the local rules of the road. Take all the documents and items you need, so they’re ready in case of a routine stop or an emergency, too. When you’re properly prepared, you can relax and fully commit to enjoying yourselves.