Driving To Europe? Make Sure You Pack A High Vis Jacket

If you’re planning a driving holiday in Europe this summer there are probably a lot of things on your packing list, but a high visibility jacket may not be one of them.

However, the Independent recently pointed out that British drivers could be risking heavy penalties if they don’t have high visibility jackets, along with other items that are required by law in different European countries.

A first aid kit and hazard warning triangle are essentials in most European nations, but other items you may need to pick up include a breathalyser if you’re driving in France, or a spare pair of driving glasses if you’ll be travelling around Spain.

Motoring expert at Halfords David Hammond recommended that drivers also refresh their knowledge of driving laws and signs in the country they’ll be visiting.

“Unfamiliar road signs, lack of local knowledge and driving on the opposite side of the road can all lead to a disconcerting driving experience on the continent,” he explained.

The AA recently revealed that Paris is the most popular destination among British drivers heading to the continent, while Amsterdam, Chamonix, Bordeaux and Milan also made the top ten.

The organisation highlighted the low emission zones that have been introduced to parts of France, including Paris, and elsewhere in Europe. In France, drivers need to display a sticker in their windscreen that shows their vehicle’s emissions levels.

These aren’t expensive - costing €4.80 from the official website - but the AA warned motorists to be careful that they don’t buy their sticker from another site that could charge considerably more.