Top tips for driving in Europe
June, 2017
Going on a road trip in a foreign country can be daunting. How do you prepare? What do you need to know? How do you navigate the roads? Are the driving laws different? These are all valid questions to ask before you set out on your adventure.
The first thing you need to do
If you’re coming from the United States, first things first. Apply for an International Driver’s Permit. All you need is your current US driver’s license and pay for the application. Your photo will be taken and you will get the International Driver’s Permit the next day.
Get a Navigation App
Make sure you download navigational apps to your phone or invest in a GPS that contains the country you are visiting. Google Maps is a reliable option and you can download it for free.
What’s that sign again?
You should research the difference in street signs and rules of the road. Fortunately, they are not too difficult to become accustomed to, but it’s always better to be prepared.
Book your car hire ASAP
This is very important. Most people don’t know that car hire works in a similar way to flights: prices change every day so the sooner you book, the better price you will get.
Space for Everyone and Everything
Make sure you pick a vehicle that is large enough for your belongings, but small enough to fit in the narrow city streets of most European cities.
Last but not least
As with any road trip, keep in mind the potential to pay for parking as well as highway tolls.
Blog credit: Warm thank you to Jonathan Rojas and Jasmin Rojas for their blog contribution. View more photos and videos via Instagram @jrojasmedia and @jasminelainephoto
