Caught Driving in Flip Flops? 8 Weird Myths That Could Ruin Your Road Trip in Europe

Sure, you can drive in flip flops in most of Europe, however not in all places! Some nations have shocking guidelines that would land you a advantageous and even void your insurance coverage. Listed here are 8 widespread driving myths that would destroy your Journey in Europe.

Should you’re working whereas touring, plan forward. Select a quiet spot for video calls. Pack a laptop computer stand. Be sure to have sturdy Wi-Fi. Don’t overlook your well being both. Stretch throughout breaks. Drink water. Carry snacks. This makes it simpler to remain wholesome whereas on the highway.

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So let’s clear up the confusion. Listed here are eight widespread myths about driving overseas that try to be conscious of:

1. No Shirt, No Drive

Many individuals assume it’s okay to drive and not using a shirt. However in locations like Spain, Italy, and components of France, it’s not. Being shirtless whereas driving will be seen as “improper driving.” Naked pores and skin can keep on with seats or slide on leather-based. This would possibly cut back management.

If a police officer thinks your outfit impacts the way you drive, they will cease and advantageous you. Even in the summertime warmth of Greece, Malta or Cyprus, put on a lightweight t-shirt.

2. Honking Anytime is Okay

Within the UK, honking generally is a pleasant sign.

However in lots of European cities like Vienna or Bratislava, horns are for emergencies solely. In Spain, use it solely to warn others of hazard. In Italy, don’t honk in neighborhoods until you actually need to.

In Belgium and the Czech Republic, that small beep may cost you. Your common horn works advantageous. You don’t want a “overseas horn.”

3. Flip-Flops are Advantageous

Footwear may cause issues for drivers. Flip-flops, backless sandals, and delicate sneakers might really feel cozy. However in France, they’re seen as unsafe. Police can cease you in the event that they assume your sneakers cut back your management. The identical guidelines apply in Eire, Bulgaria, or Poland.

4. Spare Glasses Rule

There’s a rumor that each one drivers want spare glasses. This comes from actual guidelines in Spain, Hungary, and Slovakia. Drivers who want glasses should hold a backup pair within the automobile. However for those who don’t put on glasses, you’re advantageous.

Nonetheless, preserving an outdated pair close by may assist keep away from bother. It’s a small factor that may forestall massive issues on toll roads or in low emission zones.

5. Barefoot Driving Is Allowed

Some assume driving barefoot is allowed throughout Europe. It isn’t banned in most nations like Finland, however it may nonetheless trigger issues. Should you crash and weren’t sporting sneakers, it may depend towards you.

Insurance coverage would possibly say you didn’t have full management. Police would possibly agree. So even on lengthy drives, put on sneakers with a strong grip. Particularly when driving by means of Romania, Iceland, or the Isle of Man.

Put good sneakers on earlier than driving, particularly on lengthy or tough routes.

6. The Rule for Pajamas

Sporting pajamas whereas driving may appear okay. However not everywhere. In Spain, police have fined drivers for “improper” clothes. In case your outfit makes it exhausting to maneuver or react shortly, that’s an issue.

Sure, pajamas would possibly really feel cozy. But when they appear like sleepwear, you possibly can get stopped. Should you wouldn’t put on it to the store in Gibraltar, Jersey or Denmark, don’t put on it to drive.

7. Selecting Up Hitchhikers Isn’t All the time Authorized

Hitchhiking nonetheless exists in some components of Europe. However pulling over within the fallacious place will be unlawful. In Germany or Norway, don’t cease on the Autobahn until it’s a secure zone. France and Italy even have guidelines.

Need to provide somebody a trip? Use official relaxation stops. Don’t cease simply wherever. That is vital in locations like Greece and Croatia.

8. One License Often Works

Some nonetheless assume you want a brand new legitimate driving licence for every nation. That’s not true. A sound UK or EU driver’s license is ok in most European nations. This consists of nations like Austria and Poland. This rule applies to quick visits.

However some locations exterior the EU would possibly want an Worldwide Driving Allow (IDP). In nations like Cyprus or Hungary, it’s finest to verify forward. An IDP prices just some kilos. Get it on the Publish Workplace or by means of AAA. It’s simpler than coping with a car-rental firm or public transportation from the airport.

Issues to Bear in mind

Earlier than your subsequent highway journey, verify the driving legal guidelines in every nation. This consists of guidelines about quantity plates, warning triangles, and winter tyres. In some nations, like Switzerland, you’ll want a vignette for toll roads. In others, you would possibly want a UK sticker or particular registration.

Select Leisure, a Kent-based motorhome firm, says confusion is widespread. Don’t belief outdated blogs, TikTok suggestions, or what a pal stated. One thing that feels regular may result in a advantageous.

Driving overseas continues to be a good way to discover Europe. Just a little planning helps. Be taught the native legal guidelines. Pack good with EktaTraveling medical insurance prepared, too. Keep away from the myths. That approach, you’ll be able to benefit from the journey and never fear a couple of ticket.

Test the final velocity limits in km or mph. Gown proper. And benefit from the trip!

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About The Author

I’m Cyrine, a 19-year-old Filipina author navigating school, freelancing, and the journey to turning into a digital nomad. I share actual tales, funds suggestions, and classes from chasing freedom by means of distant work, one step at a time.