Driving Abroad: 7 Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

1. Pay attention to the vignettes for entering environmental zones

Many people get stressed out just by the idea of the jumble of vignettes in circulation. The vignette that causes the most confusion is the environmental vignette. Just to illustrate that this confusion isn't entirely unfounded.

In France, for example, you have to decide in advance whether you want to enter Paris, Grenoble, or Lyon, because you need a different eco-vignette for each city, as they each fall within a different environmental zone. So far, there doesn't seem to be much to worry about. The problem, however, is that you can only buy the stickers online and you only need them in the cities. If you're driving on the ring road, you don't need a vignette. This also applies to many other countries, such as Germany and Italy. You can often buy them on the spot before entering the city, but in some cases, they can only be purchased online. The delivery time is about four weeks, and the cost is usually no more than five euros. However, if you don't have one with you, even though it's required, you risk a fine of up to 80 euros.

2. Find out in advance where the toll roads are so that you can roughly estimate what the costs will be.

If you're heading south, you'll likely encounter a number of toll roads. Tolls also vary from country to country. It's helpful to estimate the approximate cost of a toll road beforehand. The ANWB website offers a good overview. This will give you a good idea of the costs and how much cash you'll need to bring to reach your holiday destination.

3. Make sure you have a breathalyzer with you

In France, breathalyzers are even mandatory! They certainly know their stuff there. In a holiday destination known for its fine wines and rosé, one glass too many is easily consumed. Considering that many people also tow caravans, it's only logical that the country enforces strict regulations. Therefore, the breathalyzer is mandatory.

4. Another requirement in many countries: the safety vest

A safety vest is also mandatory in many countries. For example, in Austria, Italy, Spain, and also in the aforementioned France, and since July 1st, even in Germany, you must have at least one safety vest in your car. Don't just toss it carelessly in the trunk; make sure it's within easy reach. Think of the map pocket in the door or the parcel shelf. You might be checked for it! A warning triangle is also mandatory.

The breathalyzer and safety vest are also available via the ANWB website.

5. Check the traffic regulations of the countries you visit

Besides the different rules for the items you need to carry with you, many holiday destinations have slightly different traffic regulations. There's nothing more frustrating than getting a fine for an offense that could have easily been avoided!

6. What to do in case of an accident on the road

Breakdowns on the road are always unpleasant, especially when you're far from home. We might be able to fix a flat tire ourselves. And for engine problems, there's always the ANWB (Royal Dutch Touring Club) to help, but what if we're involved in an accident during our trip? Things often become more urgent, especially because emotions often play a role. It's advisable to have a handy address on hand to quickly get a solution in case of windshield damage .

7. Finally: Always take a spare key with you!

It can happen to anyone. You're on vacation, unsuspectingly slip your car key into your shorts or swimsuit, and a few hours later you discover you've lost it. Panic sets in, of course, because the spare key is at home, but that's, let's say, 500 kilometers away. What now?

You could, of course, have the car broken into, but it's smarter to simply make sure you have a spare key with you at your vacation destination or in your belt pouch. So, have a spare car key made before you leave. That will save you a lot of unnecessary stress.

With the above tips, you can hit the road with peace of mind and enjoy a wonderful holiday!