Newcastle Motorhomes

Get practical advice for driving a campervan in Europe, from navigating different road rules to essential travel tips and safety precautions. Make your European road trip smooth and enjoyable with our helpful driving guide.

Get Your Documentation in Order

When planning a trip to Europe in a campervan, the first thing you need to ensure is that all your documentation is in order. Before leaving the UK, double-check that your passport is up to date—most countries require it to be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. 

You'll also need to have the right driving licence; a full UK driving licence is usually sufficient for most European countries. However, you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for countries like Croatia or Turkey. 

Make sure to carry your vehicle’s registration document (V5C), as well as proof of motorhome insurance and a Green Card. Ensure you have a European breakdown cover policy in place. This will help you avoid high costs and headaches if your campervan breaks down.

Additionally, some countries require you to carry a warning triangle, high-visibility jacket, first aid kit, and even a fire extinguisher in your vehicle. It's important to check the specific requirements of each country you plan to visit. Keeping all these documents and essential items organised in one place will save you time and stress during your trip. 

Knowing you have everything in order means you can focus on enjoying your European adventure without any unexpected disruptions or compliance issues. Always being prepared will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to create wonderful memories on the road. Safe travels! 

get a uk sticker

When driving through Europe in your campervan, ensuring your vehicle displays a "UK" sticker is crucial. This sticker signifies that your campervan is registered in the United Kingdom and is a legal necessity when travelling across European countries. 

It should be prominently placed on the rear of your vehicle to be easily visible to local authorities and other drivers.

Besides the "UK" sticker, another crucial consideration is the emission zones in many European cities. Places like Paris and Berlin have low-emission zones where older, high-emission vehicles may be banned or subject to charges. 

Researching the emission regulations for each destination city is necessary. You might need to purchase an emissions sticker or vignette, which should be displayed on your windscreen.

 Therefore, preparation goes beyond just having a "UK" sticker. Investigate the emission rules and equip yourself with the necessary stickers or vignettes for the cities you plan to visit.

Additionally, it's worth noting that some countries have other specific requirements for vehicles, such as carrying a first aid kit, warning triangle, reflective jacket, and, in winter, snow chains. 

Failure to comply with these requirements can also result in fines or other penalties. These small, preparatory measures can save you considerable time, money, and inconvenience. A "UK" sticker, while seemingly a minor detail, is pivotal for a hassle-free road trip across Europe.

Applying this sticker before beginning your journey is a simple yet essential step to ensure you comply with European travel regulations. So, take the time to affix it correctly to prevent unnecessary disruptions during your travels. Proper preparation will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable road trip experience across the continent.

Stay Within the Law

When driving a campervan in Europe, staying within the law is crucial for a hassle-free trip. Each European country has its own set of traffic laws, which can differ significantly from those in the UK. Familiarising yourself with these laws will help you avoid run-ins with the local police and expensive fines.

For example, in France, it’s mandatory to carry a breathalyser in your vehicle, and in Spain, you must have a spare pair of glasses if you wear prescription lenses. 

Additionally, speed limits often vary depending on the type of road and weather conditions. In Germany, the Autobahn is famous for having sections with no speed limit, but in most other places, strict limits are enforced.

Parking regulations are another thing to be aware of. Many European cities have restricted areas for overnight parking and camping. It's always a good idea to research and use designated campsites, which are often well-equipped and safe.In some countries, such as Austria and Switzerland, you’ll need to purchase a vignette or toll sticker to use the motorways. 

These can be bought at border crossings, petrol stations, or online before you travel.By staying within the law, you ensure a smoother travel experience. Make sure to read up on the rules and regulations for each country you plan to visit.

Plan Ahead

Proper planning is essential for a successful and enjoyable campervan trip across Europe. Before you set off, make sure you have a clear itinerary and know the routes you will be taking. Using tools like Google Maps and local travel guides can help you get an idea of the best roads and stops along the way.

You should also factor in toll roads, especially in countries like France, Spain, and Italy. These can add up quickly, so budget accordingly or plan alternative routes if you're looking to save money.

Planning ahead is not just about logistics; it’s also about making the most of your trip by researching fun activities and attractions. Knowing your options can make your journey more enjoyable and less stressful.

Safety Checks

Safety should always be a top priority when planning a campervan trip across Europe. Before setting off, conduct thorough safety checks to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. 

Start with a complete check of your campervan's mechanical aspects. Make sure the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant levels are correct. Check the tyre pressure and tread depth, as well as the condition of the brakes and lights.

Ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained can't be overstated. Breaking down in a foreign country can be difficult and costly. Therefore, a pre-trip visit to your local mechanic for a comprehensive check-up is highly recommended.

Another essential safety aspect is having the right equipment on board. Make sure you carry a warning triangle, high-visibility vests, and a first aid kit. Some countries like France and Spain require these by law. It’s also wise to have a basic tool kit and spare parts like bulbs and fuses in case of minor issues.

It's not just the vehicle that needs preparing—think about what you need too. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance and European breakdown cover. These can save you a lot of money and hassle if something goes wrong.

Also, familiarise yourself with the emergency numbers for each country you will be visiting. Knowing these in advance can save crucial time in case of an accident or medical emergency. For example, the general emergency number in most European countries is 112.

Safety checks might seem time-consuming, but they are an essential part of a successful and enjoyable trip.

---

Motorhome rental In Newcastle

We will be happy to discuss the details of our motorhome hire service with you when you come to the workshop. If you would like to book your motorhome hire in Newcastle then please do get in touch.

Find out more about our motorhome rental Newcastle Upon Tyne.