Before embarking on a road trip to mainland Europe, there are several important considerations to keep in mind, including insurance coverage, breakdown assistance, and toll payment methods.
When it comes to insurance, UK car insurance policies typically provide third-party coverage while driving in EU countries, including Switzerland. However, if you prefer to have comprehensive coverage, it’s advisable to contact your insurance provider. Some insurers, like LV=, automatically include up to 180 days of driving in Europe with their comprehensive policies. Others may offer up to 30 days of comprehensive coverage, but this may come at an additional cost. It’s important to review your policy and make any necessary adjustments.
For breakdown cover in mainland Europe, it’s worth checking if you already have coverage. Lease cars often come with the manufacturer’s breakdown cover, which usually extends to the entire European region. Many UK breakdown policies and car service plans also include coverage in Europe. Nationwide’s FlexPlus current account, along with some other paid-for accounts, provide total European breakdown cover.
If you don’t have existing breakdown cover and desire peace of mind, a two-week standard cover typically ranges from £30 to £80. A recent comparison by Compare the Market found that Nova Direct offers the cheapest policy at £31 for a 2017 car spending two weeks in mainland Europe during August. In contrast, the AA charges £80 and the RAC charges £82 for the same trip. It’s generally advisable to avoid the cheapest providers unless you have a highly reliable car. Rescuemycar.com offers reasonable policies for £44 and Green Flag policies are well-regarded and provide a good mid-price option. AutoAid, a previous favorite of Guardian Money, offers Euro Rescue cover for £47, covering 17 days in mainland Europe. It’s worth comparing premiums on comparison sites to find the most affordable option.
When purchasing such policies, it’s crucial to be aware of any age limits that companies may impose on the cars they cover, which can range from 10 to 15 years. Additionally, companies typically won’t recover a car to the UK if the cost exceeds the car’s value. This is especially important to consider if you’re planning a long trip with a low-value vehicle.
If you’re planning a long drive in France, don’t forget to factor in the cost of motorway tolls and decide how you’ll pay them. Driving from Calais to Nice, for example, can cost around €110 or £95 in tolls alone. While there’s a lot of talk about signing up for automated toll payment services like the Sanef Télépéage, it may not be worth it for those making a single annual trip due to upfront and ongoing charges. Opting to pay as you go by credit card at the automated booths is a viable alternative.
In conclusion, before traveling to mainland Europe by car, it’s crucial to review your insurance coverage, consider breakdown assistance options, and plan for toll payments. Taking these steps will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey.
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