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Driving Abroad

Tips On Travelling With Children

Driving in a foreign country can be a daunting experience, especially if you have never driven abroad before. It needn’t be such a challenge however if you take the necessary precautions and prepare properly. The following tips will give you handy and general advice to make your time abroad much more relaxed.

• Before you even land in the country, make sure that you are aware of the speed limits on the roads. Many foreign countries have lasers that are a much more effective way of catching speeding cars and you don’t want a hefty fine ruining your holiday. Don’t forget that the road speeds will often be displayed in km/hr rather than miles per hour.
• Research the area that you will be driving in and make yourself aware of the roads that you will be using. Beware that in the majority of other countries you will be driving on the other side of the road, so take particular care at junctions. Looking at a map before you go will give you some reassurance when you get there as to what routes you will be taking.
• Check out the price of fuel in the country that you are visiting. If you are planning on doing a lot of driving this could increase the cost dramatically. It may be more economical to hire a diesel.
• When driving in Europe it is the law to carry a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher, a set of bulbs and a first aid kit. Before you go however, check what the regulations are in your destination country.
• Is your driving licence eligible for driving abroad? Make sure you have checked whether you need a particular type of licence or whether you need an international travel permit before arriving. The DVLA has information on the different types of licenses required in different countries and how to go about applying for an international driving license. One other important point, make sure that your driving licence is actually in date.
• Never leave any possessions in the car when leaving it somewhere. Things on show make the vehicle a prime target for thieves.
• When hiring a car always give it a thorough check before you set off in it. Check the brakes, tyres, headlights and seatbelts. It will be no good driving a mile down the road only to realise that the car does not actually work properly.
• Be safe! Be aware when driving and remember that you do not know the area like you might at home so stay alert and focussed at all times. If possible share the driving with another person and always make sure that someone else in the car is always looking out for you as well.

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