Don’t drive abroad unprepared - read our advice on insurance, break down cover, accidents and car hire.

Be prepared to drive abroad

• service your vehicle before leaving the UK
• check you can comply with the vehicle requirements of the countries you’ll visit

Don't go without taking:

• a spare set of car keys
• GB sticker and a set of headlamp converters
• fire extinguisher, first aid kit, tool kit, spare bulbs
• warning triangle
• registration document, driving licence and passport- check if you’ll need an International Driving Permit
• your UK motor insurance certificate, Green Card (if issued)
• breakdown policy and contact numbers
• travel insurance documents
• emergency helpline numbers

Car insurance abroad

You must have minimum cover for your liability to third parties.

Remember: this may not cover you for medical or hospital expenses after an accident.

Consult your insurance company or a motoring organisation before leaving the UK to make sure that you are fully insured.

All UK car insurance policies automatically provide, at no extra cost, the minimum cover required by law in all European Union (EU) countries.

Most people want the same protection they enjoy in the UK when they drive abroad.

But some of the cover you have in the UK may be restricted to the UK only, such as accidental damage.

Ask your insurer or broker to extend the scope of your cover before you travel if it is not already included. An additional premium may be charged.

What is a Green Card and how do I get one?

A Green Card provides NO insurance cover in itself, but it is an internationally recognised document that proves you have the minimum insurance cover required by law in that country.

You are required to have a Green Card in some countries, but not in the EU and certain other European countries where your Certificate of Insurance is enough – see full list on the Association of British Insurers website.

Insurers do not charge for a Green Card, though a broker may levy an administration fee for arranging it.

Driving accidents abroad

Immediately tell your insurer or your insurer's representative in the country if you’re involved in an accident.

Many insurers issue a European Accident Statement. This enables drivers to exchange facts while events are still fresh in their minds and without admitting liability.

Many insurers offer 24-hour UK-based emergency telephone helplines. Make sure you have the number handy.

Breaking down abroad

Don’t presume you are covered for breakdown assistance abroad. Even if you have extended your policy for driving abroad, this will not cover your car against breaking down.

Vehicle breakdown policies can be bought with your holiday insurance or with your motor insurer.

A policy will cover the cost of:

• hiring a car while your own is being repaired
• road-side assistance and emergency repairs
• returning your car to the UK or sending out spare parts
• emergency accommodation

Remember: a monetary limit will apply to each section of the policy.

Hiring a car abroad

Insurance cover is often limited to the legal minimum of the country or state you hire in. You could be held personally responsible for any claim for injury or damage over this limit.

Ask your tour operator or insurer if they can provide top-up insurance to increase your cover. This may be cheaper than buying it abroad.