Driving abroad this summer?

Although the law of averages dictates that we surely must be due an exceptional summer (it has been a while!), many of us will be hedging our bets and booking up an overseas trip to shift the odds of summer sunshine more firmly in our favour.

With the days of flying to the Côte d'Azur for less than £20 a thing of the past, it’s likely that the family saloon may be getting its longest workout of the year and driving higher than average mileage in a more challenging environment (ok, so there are some benefits to the fact that the temperature in the UK rarely creeps above 25°!).

So, if you are taking on a Europe trip this summer there are some things that you can’t plan for (Spanish driving?!), but there are a few ways to ensure that you’re prepared for every other eventuality:

Breakdown Cover – Check your policy: many standard policies don’t cover European breakdowns. You can buy an extension for policies but this often works out expensive. One of the cheapest ‘Europe inclusive’ providers is Quoteline Direct who include 90 days European cover (21 days per trip) as part of their £59 comprehensive policy.

Petrol prices – The days of European fuel being half the price of the UK are long gone. In fact, unleaded is generally around 20% more expensive on the continent. Diesel, on the other hand is cheaper (particularly in Spain). So, think about what you’re using and where you’re heading and maybe try to leave the country with a full tank...

Documents – Hopefully you will remember passports for you and your family, but don’t forget your car’s important documents – including insurance and your V5.

Car preparation - If your car’s getting the longest run of the year and will be fully loaded (+ trailer and dog?!) then it really does pay to ensure that it’s up to the job. Do you know that you have the right mix in the radiator to stop things getting too hot? And when did you last have your brakes checked? IN’n’OUT offer a comprehensive package of services, including their ‘15 point’ Xpress service. Which could well be the best £99 you spend all holiday (definitely worth it to avoid being stuck on the edge of the Peage, kids screaming, waiting for the temperature to drop back down).

Be legal - Different countries have different requirements, so check out the specifics of where you’re heading. As a rule you will need a GB sticker (If there’s not one on your number plate); a reflective jacket; at least one warning triangle, and make sure your headlights have been adjusted for driving on the right. The AA sell a comprehensive kit that contains all you need for travelling anywhere in Europe.

Wherever your travels take you this summer, IN’n’OUT wish you happy motoring and a stress free trip. And we hope that the week you pick to head off isn’t the one week that has wall-to-wall sunshine in the UK..!