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The Caravan Club provides top tips for travelling abroad this summer

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Escaping abroad in your leisure vehicle can be all the more rewarding as long as you know what you're doing

by Joe Jeffrey

Thinking of going abroad in your leisure vehicle this summer? Well, The Caravan Club may just be able to help

When looking to escape overseas in your leisure vehicle it could be assumed that driving on the correct side of the road is the only thing to worry about, but with different driving regulations across the world, there is much more to prepare for. And now, as the summer rapidly approaches and holiday planning begins, The Caravan Club has put together a list of top tips and advice for those driving abroad this summer.

Read on to find out what The Caravan Club recommends if you’re thinking of heading a little further afield this summer.

Planning

  • Prepare the car or motorhome by making sure it is serviced and check the tyre pressure and oil levels before setting off on the road.
  • Many vehicles have a ‘GB’ identifier on their registration plate. If not, make sure that the vehicle is labelled with GB stickers. This will allow authorities and other drivers to recognise visitors from abroad.
  • Plan the journey in advance. Before setting off on the road ensure that maps, directions to campsites or a Sat Nav with European mapping are to hand. A phrase book or dictionary is also useful.

    • Legal Requirements

  • Be sure to have all of the required documents: passport, driving licence, insurance certificate, MOT certificate or vehicle on hire certificate. If stopped by the police in any country, caravaners and motorhomers will need to prove that they have permission to use the vehicle and that they are insured.
  • Adhere to the speed limits of the country. In some European countries, the speed limit may not be sign posted if driving through a town or village, it is required that motorists drive at 30mph, unless a lower limit is signed.
  • Check what compulsory in-car equipment is required in the country being visited. For example, in France drivers are obliged to carry a warning triangle and fluorescent vest(s). In a number of European countries, it is compulsory to carry a first aid kit and The Caravan Club always recommends that its members have one in the car.

For more tips and advice on travelling overseas take a look at The Caravan Club’s advice and information page here now .