With the likelihood that strike action and trouble from volcanic ash clouds will cause more travel chaos at UK airports this summer, more Brits are likely to opt to drive to Europe instead; if you do, make sure you have European car insurance before you set-off.
Taking your car to mainland Europe gives you a fantastic level of flexibility to explore wherever you wish in countries like France and Italy, making the most of scenic routes and discovering parts of a country that are missed when flying or relying on public transport when there.
However, if you car is not up to the task, the distances can take their toll and result in car breakdowns and delays.
For those who intend to drive in the European Union outside the UK this summer, it is important to make sure your insurance policy covers EU travel.
Some cover you, some don't...
Some insurance policies will come with this included, but you should not assume this is the case with all policies.
Research from M&S Car Insurance revealed recently that only 12% of car drivers will fully read their car manual before driving off in a car for the first time.
“Travelling by car avoids the risk of flight delays and cancellations,” says Andrew Ferguson, M&S Head of General Insurance.
“However, it is crucial for drivers who are making longer journeys by car for the first time, to make sure they have the adequate car insurance and breakdown cover in place, so that they have peace of mind should the worse happen.”
Tips for driving abroad
To get the best out of your summer holiday trip when driving in Europe it is always advisable to plan your journey beforehand using a route planner and if you do not speak the language where you are going have a travel book to hand that contains local phrases to ask locals for directions and good places to stop.
As with any long car journey you should also check the car over before setting off, ensuring the oil, screen wash, coolant and tyre pressures are at correct levels.
You should never drive abroad without first checking to see if your car insurance covers you for European driving. If not, you should look for additional car insurance cover.
