If you're planning a European road trip you’ll want to make sure you take the right kit with you, to avoid the risk of a fine for not carrying something as simple as a warning triangle or reflective jacket.
Road rules change, too, so even if you’re a regular abroad you’ll want to keep up with the latest.
The rules vary quite a lot from country to country – our quick guide will tell you what you need to know for the 14 countries most popular with British drivers: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
BrexitThe documents you'll need to carry if driving in Europe will change in the event of a 'no-deal' Brexit. The UK and EU have agreed an extension to Article 50 until 31 October at the latest, with the option to leave earlier as soon as a deal has been ratified. So while no deal remains the legal default at the end of this extension period, it's now unlikely that there will be any changes affecting European travel this summer e.g. you will not need to carry an IDP or insurance green card to drive in an EU country. If the UK does leave without a deal:
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Compulsory kit – our handy PDF guide
Touring tips
Our country-specific touring tips include compulsory equipment rules as well as helping you get up-to-speed with local laws, from drink drive and speed limits to child safety. There’s also more general advice on things like fuel availability and tolls.
Touring tips for driving in over 40 countries
updated 1 July 2019