Planning a summer road trip through Europe in your own car can be a fantastic way to explore the continent — but it’s essential to make sure you’re properly prepared. While travel insurance may be front of mind, European breakdown cover is just as important when it comes to peace of mind on the road.
Without it, a mechanical issue or roadside mishap in another country could lead to costly repairs, delays, or even being stranded — not the kind of holiday memory anyone wants.
Here’s why European breakdown cover is essential, and what else you need to know before driving your car abroad this summer.
The Importance of European Breakdown Cover
Your standard UK breakdown cover typically won’t protect you once you leave the country. European breakdown coveris designed to provide assistance in EU countries (and beyond), covering:
Roadside repairs or recovery
Towing to the nearest garage
Emergency accommodation
Repatriation of your vehicle back to the UK (if necessary)
Onward travel or a replacement vehicle
Without this cover, even a minor fault could result in expensive recovery costs and major disruption to your trip — especially if language barriers or unfamiliar regulations slow things down.
If you’re hiring or subscribing to a vehicle, always check what’s included as part of the package, and consider adding standalone cover if needed.
What You Might Need When Driving in Europe
Planning a road trip across Europe involves more than just booking ferries or mapping out scenic routes. Here are some key legal requirements and helpful extras that could apply when driving through popular destinations such as France, Spain, Germany or Italy.
1. VE103B Certificate (For Leased or Subscribed Vehicles)
If you’re driving a vehicle on a lease or subscription — rather than one registered in your name — you’ll need a VE103B certificate. This document acts as proof that you have permission to take the vehicle abroad and is a legal requirement for travelling in most European countries.
Failing to carry one could result in delays at borders or fines from local authorities.
2. Crit’Air Emissions Sticker (France)
If your holiday route takes you into cities like Paris, Lyon or Grenoble, you may be entering a low-emission zone. France operates the Crit’Air scheme, which requires drivers to display an emissions sticker on their windscreen.
Order it in advance via the official French government site
Fines can apply if you enter restricted zones without it
Even tourists must comply, so don’t assume you’re exempt.
3. Legally Required Equipment (Varies by Country)
Different countries have different laws when it comes to what must be carried in your vehicle. If you’re travelling through France, Spain or Germany, you may need to bring:
Reflective jackets (one per occupant)
Warning triangle(s)
Headlamp beam deflectors
GB or UK sticker (if not shown on your number plate)
First aid kit (required in some countries like Austria or Germany)
Breathalyser kit (still recommended in France)
Always research each country on your route to avoid fines for non-compliance.
4. Travel and Vehicle Insurance
Make sure your UK car insurance covers driving abroad, and check for any time limits (some policies restrict cover to 30 or 60 days abroad per year). You may also want to confirm that the level of cover (e.g. comprehensive) remains the same outside the UK — not all policies guarantee this.
And don’t forget your travel insurance for personal protection while you’re away.
Final Preparations Before You Go
Check your car’s servicing is up to date
Carry physical copies of your documents: driving licence, logbook (V5C), insurance certificate, VE103B if required
Check tyre tread depth and pressure
Load maps or sat nav updates in advance (some areas may lack signal)
Have breakdown contact numbers to hand
Being prepared can help you avoid unnecessary stress and keep your holiday running smoothly from start to finish.
Final Thought
Driving your own car through Europe can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore — but it comes with responsibilities. Having the right European breakdown cover is essential if you want to travel with confidence, knowing that help is just a phone call away should anything go wrong.
For those driving leased or subscription vehicles, don’t forget the VE103B certificate, and be aware of local laws such as emissions zones or mandatory safety gear.
Whether you’re heading to the Riviera, the Alps, or the Spanish coast, take the time to prepare properly. And if you need fully comprehensive insurance for your trip, use Einsure.uk to compare policies and find the right cover for your journey.