Preparing for a Road Trip Across Europe from the UK

Planning a road trip across Europe can feel both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there. My partner Stuart, our son Ben, and I are getting ready to drive from the UK all the way to Mallorca, and there’s so much to do before you even start the engine. But honestly, a little preparation goes a long way to make sure everything runs smoothly.

I’ve learned a thing or two after last year’s road trip about preparing for a road trip across Europe, so here’s my advice based on our adventure last summer when we drove to Portugal, and what I’ve been ticking off my list for this trip.

Whether you are planning your own road trip across Europe or are just intrigued about what we plan, these are my top tips.

1. Keep Your Hotel Details at Hand

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that being organised saves more time and stress than you’d imagine. One simple tip is to have all your accommodation details printed out and organised by date and destination for the whole road trip across Europe.

Last year, for our road trip across Europe, I found printing the information out for each hotel and putting it in a large A4 envelope for each place was helpful. I wrote the basics on the front of the envelope, so the address, if breakfast was included, any specifics on parking or check-in, etc. Yes, it’s the 21st century, but relying too much on technology, you might regret it if there is no signal or your phone decides to do an update! We are doing the same this year.

Having those printed details means you’ve got backup information about addresses, phone numbers, check-in times, and any special instructions. It also makes everything feel much smoother when the satnav is trying to confuse you. If I could only share one tip with you for a road trip across Europe, this would be it.

2. Key Phrases Save the Day

Travelling through multiple countries means you’ll encounter different languages, and while many people speak English, you can’t always rely on it. I like to jot down (or print) a few simple and helpful phrases in each local language. I put the same selection in each envelope, so it is handy.

One of my go-to phrases when eating out is, “Is this vegetarian, with no meat or fish?”.

Some other phrases I’ve prepped for this trip include:

• “Where is the nearest fuel station?” (Better safe than stranded!)
• “Can you help us? We are lost.” (Because getting a bit lost is part of the fun, right?)
• “Do you speak English?” (Nearly always a good icebreaker.)

It only takes a few minutes to note these down and practice saying them out loud. You don’t need to sound perfect; locals usually appreciate even the clumsiest efforts at speaking their language. If you have it written down, you could also just show them if needed.

If you’re a little tech-savvy, consider downloading a translation app before your road trip across Europe as a backup, but don’t fully depend on it; those apps aren’t always reliable. If you have no signal or are using your phone for the SatNav or something, it helps not to need it.

3. Get to Know Road Rules

Here’s the thing about a road trip across Europe: every country has its own quirks and rules. And, breaking those rules, intentionally or not, can result in hefty fines, odd looks, or being pulled over by someone in a uniform who’s definitely not amused.

One rule is that dashcams are actually illegal in some countries, like Portugal. Who knew, right? If you’re caught with one running, you could be fined.

Other things to remember include:

• Speed limits: These can vary, and in places like France, they even change depending on the weather.
• Alcohol limits: Some countries have stricter drink-driving laws than the UK, while others have zero tolerance, so it’s best to just avoid that tipple if you’re behind the wheel.
• Required items: Countries like France require you to carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, and a breathalyser kit in your car. When packing for your road trip across Europe, ensure these are easy to access in the car!

I’ve created a checklist of these rules for each country we’re driving through. It’s straightforward and ensures we don’t forget anything important.

4. Entertainment for the Journey

We usually download some podcasts or films to watch (when not driving) ahead of time. It’s a great way to pass the miles, especially on those long, straight motorways. Remember that gadgets never charge as quickly from the car sockets, so pack plenty of charged power banks and charge them every time you have a night in a hotel.

5. Plan for Pit Stops

Driving on a road trip across Europe is an adventure in itself, and one thing we’ve learned is to schedule plenty of stops. Not just fuel stops, but proper breaks where you can stretch your legs, grab a snack, and soak in the surroundings.

In France, there are lots of aires which are sometimes big camping and picnic areas, other times not much more than a layby, but useful for stretching your legs.

6. Pack Like a Pro

Packing for a road trip across Europe is all about balance. Too much stuff, and you’ll spend half the trip digging through the car to find things. Too little, and you’ll kick yourself when you realise you left something essential behind.

Here’s what we’re bringing this time:

• Essentials: Passports, travel insurance documents, driving licenses, and car registration papers.
• Snacks: Honestly, a road trip without snacks is just boring.
• Comfort items: Pillows and blankets for naps.
• Clothes for all weathers: Europe’s weather can be unpredictable, so we’re bringing a mixture.
• Portable phone chargers: Absolute lifesavers.

I will be sharing a more in-depth packing guide next week, so keep an eye out for that.

7. Don’t Forget the Ferry

Since we’re travelling to Mallorca, there’s a ferry involved. If your trip includes a ferry or tunnel crossing, be sure you’ve booked your tickets in advance and know the check-in times.

Also, keep in mind that ferries may have restrictions on what you can bring (such as gas canisters), so double-check before you pack. Also, if you get seasick, remember to pack medication to help with that. I find that some make me drowsy, so it is worth trying them before your break, so you know if you are safe to drive after them.

8. Go with the Flow

Lastly, remember that road trips are supposed to be fun. Even with all the planning in the world, things can go wrong, a traffic jam here, a missed turn there, but those little hiccups often make the best stories later on.

Last year, we took a shortcut as it seemed a good idea at the time and ended up on the narrowest country road in the world in France. I was driving and so lucky that nothing came the other way, as it was tight as it was and very much only space for one car!

Our first road trip across Europe was full of mistakes, but it’s also full of happy memories. This time, we’re better prepared, but I’m sure there will still be a few surprises along the way. And honestly? That’s part of the magic.

Preparing for a road trip across Europe isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about setting yourself up for a memorable adventure. From printing hotel details to learning a few key phrases, each small effort makes your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Now, all that’s left is to hit the road. I will be sharing packing tips with you and all the essentials we are taking shortly, but also keep an eye on my social media to follow our travels! Have you ever been on a road trip across Europe? Is it something you would do? Let me know in the comments below.

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