Driving abroad gives you the freedom to explore a new country at your own convenience, who knows maybe you’ll discover a hidden gem.

With the school holidays just around the corner many will be taking to the roads and head for the continent, whilst others may decide to hire a car when on holiday.

In this week’s travel blog we give you our top 7 tips when driving or planning to drive abroad.

Our 7 tips when driving abroad

• Make sure that you do your research on the traffic laws for the country you are visiting, find out more about the legal requirements from the Daily Mail to help keep you safe

• Take your own Sat Nav or buy a second hand one online, just make sure that you install the correct maps prior to travel, this can save you £££’s and help keep you out of trouble.

• When paying for your hire car always use a credit card, never give the hire company details of your debit card. The protection offered on a credit card makes the card supplier jointly liable in the case of any disputes (Consumer Credit Act 1974).

• If hiring a car remember to take pictures of the vehicle on delivery and at collection, make sure your photographs contain the time and date. Point out and note any damage if the attendant is available.

• When taking your own car make sure you have carried out these basic checks before starting your journey.

• Keep loose change to hand. Many countries operate toll roads, so make sure you have plenty of change in the correct currency.

• Expect the unexpected, use your common-sense and remember accidents happen, if you are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident, contact your insurer or hire car provider immediately for advice.

Our final tip… Make sure that you enjoy the freedom of exploring a new country.

Taking your own car

Are you taking your own car abroad? Travel insurance does not cover personal liability as a result of a motor claim, please check that you have adequate car insurance cover before travelling.

Our preferred partner One Call Insurance can help you, call their car insurance specialists on 01302 554012 or get a car insurance quote online, you will also receive a £20 discount by mentioning the discount code JTRAVEL20.

Join the conversation

Have you got any tips to add to our list? Join in the conversation on our Facebook or Twitter pages.

If you are considering driving whist abroad then please remember to arrange travel insurance with Just Travel cover. You can get a quote online or alternatively call us on 0800 294 2969, remember to save yourself 10% by using discount code NW17.