As someone who had always wanted to experience the sheer, unadulterated joy of a road-trip, I became obsessed with the romance of life on the road and the concept of moving closer to nature. So when I eventually began to plan my road-trip through the diverse terrain of central and Eastern Europe. I focused on the destinations I would visit and the sights that I could hope to see.
As this fascinating infographic from the Daily Mail highlights, however, this is a big mistake. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying the romance and spontaneity of a trip along Europe’s diverse, open roads, it is a false economy and potentially dangerous not to consider the practical demands of this mode of travel and the risks associated with it.
From strange laws and customs to viable breakdown cover, your dream road-trip can quickly become a nightmare if you are not prepared for the real world challenges and obstacles on the open road!
3 Crucial considerations when planning your Road-trip Abroad
With this in mind, here is a basic guide that highlights the most important considerations when travelling abroad. These include: –
Prepare for Basic Vehicle Maintenance tasks
The breakdown of your vehicle is inconvenient at the best of times, but it can be potentially devastating when it happens during a road-trip or in a foreign country. In this instance, the cost of funding even basic repairs can be extortionate, while you must also factor in language barriers and currency fluctuations.
It is therefore your duty to assume responsibility for at least basic vehicle repairs that may be needed on the road. This can include everything from changing oil and tyres to checking the rate of air compression in your car, so it is crucial that you learn the necessary skills and take a selection of tools that can execute simple repairs. These can save you money and empower through independence while out on the road!
Make sure that you have Adequate and relevant Breakdown cover
For those repairs that are beyond your skill-set, you will have no choice but to commission a professional mechanic to attend to your vehicle. We have already touched on the potential cost of this, however, so it is important that you speak to your insurers prior to leaving to check the validity of your breakdown coverage.
Typically, standard UK policies apply to UK breakdowns only, meaning that you will either need to speak to your service provider about an extension to your coverage and enquire about any specialist policies that they can offer you ate a discounted rate. Once you have agreed to coverage, make sure that you pack all of the necessary documentation in your glove compartment before setting off!
Consider your choice of Vehicle
While this may sound odd, it is important that you consider the diverse and challenging nature of European terrain. Regions in the East of Europe have less of an infrastructure when it comes to building public roads; while alternative designs and driving laws can also make it difficult to travelers to traverse the land safely (consider Italy’s The Amalfi Coast, for example).
With this in mind, it can be a huge risk taking your existing vehicle out on the European roads, as it may well cause damage and potentially thousands of pounds in repairs. Instead, you may better served by buying a second-hand runner for cash or leasing a car once you have crossed the channel into mainland Europe!
