Tips for driving holidays
When going on a driving holiday, make sure that you are absolutely clear on the road rules and speed limits in each country you are driving through
Remember that in Europe speed limits are in kilometres per hour and not miles.
Here is a list of various speed limits throughout Europe that can be of some help to the driving tourist:
| Country | Motorways | Open roads | Towns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austria | 130 km/h | 100 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Belgium | 120 km/h | 90 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Denmark | 110 km/h | 80 km/h | 50 km/h |
| France | 130 km/h (110 when wet) | 90 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Germany | none unless shown | 100 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Italy | 130 km/h | 90 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Luxembourg | 120 km/h | 90 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Netherlands | 120/100 km/h | 80 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Norway | 90 km/h | 80 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Spain | 120 km/h | 100 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Switzerland | 120 km/h | 80 km/h | 50 km/h |
Invest in a map that covers the major and small roads of the countries you are visiting. This means the whole family can get involved in navigating.
Many toll booths do take credit cards but make sure that you have small change in local money in the car to pay at the tolls.
Thoroughly check the car before you leave including oil, anti-freeze, brake fluid and tyre pressure. Check regularly during your holiday.
If you are travelling during the winter take chains and an ice scraper for the windscreen.
It is worth considering taking out international breakdown cover is this is not already provided by your regular car insurance. Contact your provider for more information.
