UK drivers warned over costly European road trip mistakes as summer holiday travel begins
UK motorists planning a European road trip this summer are being urged to prepare well before setting off, with road safety experts warning that unfamiliar driving laws and overlooked paperwork could result in hefty fines or disrupted journeys.
Breakdown and road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist has issued fresh guidance for drivers travelling overseas, highlighting everything from motorway toll costs to compulsory safety equipment that varies between European countries.
One of the biggest expenses facing motorists is the cost of toll roads. According to GEM, a return motorway journey between the UK and southern France can exceed £200 in toll charges, depending on the route and vehicle being used. Drivers are advised to check payment methods in advance, as some toll routes require cash, card payments, or electronic tags.
The organisation is also reminding motorists that road laws differ significantly across Europe. In many countries, failing to carry the correct documents or mandatory equipment can lead to on-the-spot penalties.
Drivers travelling without their driving licence, passport, insurance documents, or vehicle registration papers may be prevented from continuing their journey and could face fines or have their vehicle impounded until the paperwork is produced.
Other common mistakes include failing to display the correct UK country identifier, driving without beam deflectors for right-hand drive vehicles, or entering French low-emission zones without the required Crit’Air emissions sticker. Reflective jackets, warning triangles, and other safety items are compulsory in several countries, with some motorists risking fines of more than €100 if they are missing.
Alongside legal requirements, GEM says driver fatigue remains a significant road safety concern during long summer journeys. Research cited by the organisation suggests tiredness contributes to as many as one in five collisions on major roads.
Motorists are encouraged to take regular breaks every two hours, stay hydrated, avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day where possible, and share driving responsibilities on longer trips.
GEM is also reminding holidaymakers that most European countries operate lower drink-driving limits than the UK, while some apply zero-tolerance rules for certain drivers. Speed limits, environmental restrictions and junction priority rules can also differ between countries, making advance planning an important part of travelling safely.
Driving to Europe this summer? Check the rules before you travel and follow EyeOnLondon for the latest travel and motoring updates.
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