One of the best ways to explore and enjoy Europe is by taking a road trip. Europe has nice roads that traverse the countryside, twist up and down mountains, and brush sandy shores. This makes it easier for you to see some parts of this continent that you cannot see using other modes of transportation. If you want to have a memorable trip, there are a number of things you need to do.
6 Travel Tips for a Great European Road Trip
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1. A Destination and a Route
It is important to decide where your trip will begin and end. This will help you to carefully plan the route and estimate your budget. You could decide to take the short route, the long one, the adventurous one or combine all three. After picking your destination, you can decide on the car to use, the type of clothing to pack and other requirements for the trip.
2. A Well Serviced Car
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You could either decided to use your own car or hire a car. This decision will be based mainly on your destination, route and budget. The most important thing is to ensure that the car is in tip-top condition. This means that the engine should be well serviced, fluid levels checked and topped up. The power steering, central locking, windscreen wipers, heating, air con and all lights should be working efficiently.
3. High Quality Tires
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A road trip causes more wear and tear on the tires than an ordinary trip. If you can afford it, have the vehicle fixed with high quality tires. Such tires could give you thousands of miles/kilometers as they can withstand wear and tear for a longer period. In addition, good quality tires help to save on fuel. High quality tires are available from various sites such as Point-S.co.uk.
4. Travel Documents
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The documents you require for the trip are determined by the final destination and the route. For instance, if you are travelling from London to France, Norway or Switzerland, you may need passports, valid driver license, international driving permit and visas. Some countries may also require you to have a car passport, road tax, personal accident cover and car insurance.
5. GPS Device
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Although a map is essential when taking a road trip, having a GPS device is an additional bonus. This device ensures that you do not get lost and that you do not have to ask for directions. It does this by letting you know your precise location. As a result, you can avoid the hassles associated with compasses and traditional maps. It can be installed in your car or you could rent a vehicle that already has one.
6. Car Essentials
These are things that you need to make your trip easier and more enjoyable. These things occupy a very small space in the car. They include owner’s manual, maps, jumper cables, tire weld, tire repair kit, first aid kit and road flares. Other essentials are flashlights, extra batteries, portable charger, fire extinguisher, spare tires, tire pressure checker and a jack. You will also need snacks and bottled water to give you energy and keep you hydrated on the road.
If you would like to explore Europe, it would be advisable to take a road trip. A European road trip is a refreshing idea that encompasses history, art, nature and prehistoric settlements among other things. Memories of such a trip could last a lifetime.
Have you taken a European road trip before?
Author Bio:
My name is Emma Venn & I am a travel enthusiast. I love to explore the world as I can’t sit still.
I have road tripped with four kids throughout Europe and would add a practical tip. Bring toilet paper and change in local currency for pay toilets. Public restrooms are not the same standard in Europe as you find in the USA.
That is a great tip Dawn. Thank you!
I have road tripped with four kids throughout Europe. It is truly an incredible experience, but I would add one practical tip. Bring toilet paper and change in the local currency for pay toilets. And realize that public restrooms are not the same standard as we are used to in the USA!
What road is that in the picture at the top. I want to go there!