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european essentials

Did you know for european driving you need at least one warning trangle, hi-vis for every person in the vehicle, bulb kit for all major lights, GB badge or numberplate and headlight beam adjusters.

Additional items like fire extinguisher, first aid kit and spare glasses are needed in some countries

GB badge

Compulsory, and failure to comply could result in an on-the-spot fine.

Euro-plates - number plates that include the GB euro-symbol - have been legal since March 2001 and make display of a conventional sticker unnecessary within the EU.

In some countries outside the EU a conventional sticker is required even if you have euro-plates, so it is always safer to display one.

Hi-vis jacket/vest

It is now compulsory in many European countries for visiting motorists to carry/wear reflective jackets.

In addition, as they are compulsory for residents in Norway and Portugal we would recommend that they are carried by visitors too.

The AA recommends that each vehicle carries at least two jackets/waistcoats in the passenger compartment - one for the driver and one for a passenger.

The Jacket/waistcoat must conform to EU Standard BS EN 471: 1994 Class 1 or 2.

headlights

If you're driving to the Continent and using headlights then you must adjust the headlamp beam pattern to suit driving on the right so that the dipped beam doesn't dazzle oncoming drivers.

The legal requirement is to 'not cause dazzle to oncoming drivers' rather than specifically to adjust/convert headlamp beam pattern so if it's only a short trip and you know you won't have to drive with lights on then conversion is not necessary. You can be delayed however or the weather can change suddenly so it is recommended that you always adapt your headlights or at the very least take the means with you to do so.

warning triangle

The carrying of a warning triangle is compulsory in some countries including France and Spain, it is reommended that two are carried when driving in Spain as in the case of an accident or breakdown you may be fined if only one is produced.

fire extinguisher & first aid kit

It is recommended that a fire extinguisher and first aid kit are carried in the vehicle.

replacement bulb kit

All lamps, including lenses and reflectors must be in working order, even during daylight hours. Failure to be in a position to replace a blown exterior bulb could result in temporary cessation of your journey and/or a spot fine.