Jun 21, 2019
Getting behind the wheel while you’re abroad can be daunting. Questions will be raised around; do they drive on the other side of the road? What are the different road rules? Some road signs may be different, what do they mean? This is something you need to be prepared for as you want to have a good chance to get to know the best things about your holiday destination.
Road trip holidays are becoming increasingly popular nowadays, so here are our top tips on how to be safe and make the most of your upcoming adventure.
Are you old enough to drive?
Many countries have a legal driving age of 18, however, it is important to be aware that many car rental companies will charge premiums for under 25 drivers or simply refuse to rent the car out. Knowing this is a must when it comes to road trip tips as this would be one of the first things to check out before planning your trip!
How much do I need to pack?
Our advice is to pack light, a heavy car means using up more fuel. It also means that if you buy anything while you’re away, there is enough room to stow it!
Learn the rules of the road!
This is an important one because you need to make sure that you aren’t breaking the law! You may think, ‘Oh, this is just about knowing which side of the road to drive on’. Well, it is, but we also have other points you may want to take into consideration. Know the different speed limits, what the road signs mean and what the drink-driving laws are.
It’s important to make sure you have the correct documentation to be able to drive whilst on holiday, just in case you get stopped! For example, here are some of the road rules in the USA, undertaking isn’t illegal there, you must come to a complete stop when you see pedestrians trying to cross the road and it is illegal to drink drive in all 50 states.
Do I need a credit card?
After doing a lot of research, many road-trippers have recommended getting a credit card. This is good in case of emergencies such as losing your debit card or even running out of money. Some car rental companies require you to hand over a credit card so that they can use it in event of excess charges, such as being in an accident or for any damage that the car may have while it’s in your care.
Expect the unexpected and don’t rush.
While on your holiday road trip, you may bump into some wildlife roaming the roads. You may also encounter road works that could block off an important road for your desired route. The important thing is, do not panic or rush. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions. You are on holiday after all, which is meant to be a time to enjoy yourself and not feel any stress.
The important thing to note is to do your research before you go, this means you will know as much as you possibly can! Keep your family and friends at home updated so they know your whereabouts, just in case something happens while you’re away. See our top summer driving tips infographic here.
Happy travelling!
