4 ways to stay safe during a European road trip

There is no longer any doubt that Europe is the most popular destination for international tourism. In their 2018 report, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation highlighted that very fact with the statistic that over half of all tourists worldwide, or 672 million people, chose Europe as their travel destination.

And why not? With 51 countries, all of which have their own unique cultures, cuisines and climates, with 132 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Western Europe alone, and with a plethora of stable governments which actively promote and encourage tourism, it would seem to be the obvious choice for any wanderer looking to put a few miles under their belt.

But as with any journey through foreign lands, particularly one done by car, it is important to bear in mind how to keep yourself safe.

1. Know the region

While Europe has a reputation for stability, it is important to recognise that this is not the case across the board. Organised crime, regional conflicts, political volatility; there are all sorts of risks to be considered. Fortunately, most governments will provide free foreign travel advice on their websites, covering everything from information on terrorism hotspots, local laws and customs, to prevalence of natural disasters. Consulting one of these sites can be a good first step for anyone planning a road trip.

2: Be prepared

One of the first tasks for anyone facing a long road trip should be to make sure their vehicle is in top working order. Regardless of its condition, booking your car in for an appointment at your local garage or ensuring you’re using a reputable rental company is a sensible solution for avoiding the unexpected later on down the line. The last thing you need when you’re a week into your journey is to have a breakdown in the middle of the Black Forest or halfway up a pass through the Alps.

It’s also worth researching any rules and regulations before setting off on your road trip. For example, did you know that if you need to wear prescription lenses while driving in Spain you’re required to carry a second pair at all times?

3: Have a plan

Although there may be something romantic in the notion of throwing caution to the wind and hitting the open road, it is worth making sure you have the bare bones of a plan when taking a trip. This can range from knowing where the nearest petrol stations and major towns are, keeping an eye on weather reports for the area, letting someone know where you are every so often, and of course, pre-empting network blackouts by familiarising yourself with a physical map of the region; don’t rely on GPS to guide you all the way.

4: Stock up

Having enough supplies to last you through emergencies is a must, especially if you’re planning on travelling through remote areas. Pack enough food and water to last a day longer than necessary, keep a well-equipped medical and repair kit to hand, and include weather appropriate clothing in your luggage. And of course, get enough sleep, if for no other reason than the fact that it’s hard to take in the scenery when you can barely keep your eyes open.

This post is a contributed post and contains affiliate links.