Caught Driving in Flip Flops? 8 Bizarre Myths That May Break Your Street Journey in Europe

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

In the event 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 neglect your well being both. Stretch throughout breaks. Drink water. Carry snacks. This makes it simpler to keep wholesome whereas on the street.

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

If a police officer thinks your outfit impacts the way you drive, they’ll cease and wonderful you. Even in the summertime warmth of Greece, Malta or Cyprus, put on a light-weight 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 really want to.

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

3. Flip-Flops are Tremendous

Footwear could cause issues for drivers. Flip-flops, backless sandals, and delicate footwear might really feel cozy. However in France, they’re seen as unsafe. Police can cease you in the event that they suppose your footwear scale 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 automotive. However for those who don’t put on glasses, you’re wonderful.

Nonetheless, maintaining an outdated pair close by might assist keep away from bother.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

5. Barefoot Driving Is Allowed

Some suppose driving barefoot is allowed throughout Europe. It isn’t banned in most international locations like Finland, nevertheless it might nonetheless trigger issues. In the event you crash and weren’t carrying footwear, it might depend in opposition to you.

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

Put good footwear on earlier than driving, particularly on lengthy or difficult routes.

6. The Rule for Pajamas

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

Sure, pajamas would possibly really feel cozy. But when they appear to be sleepwear, you can get stopped. In the event 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 incorrect place could be unlawful. In Germany or Norway, don’t cease on the Autobahn until it’s a secure zone. France and Italy even have guidelines.

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

8. One License Normally Works

Some nonetheless suppose 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 international locations. This consists of international locations like Austria and Poland. This rule applies to brief visits.

However some locations outdoors the EU would possibly want an Worldwide Driving Allow (IDP). In international locations 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 Keep in mind

Earlier than your subsequent street journey, verify the driving legal guidelines in every nation. This consists of guidelines about quantity plates, warning triangles, and winter tyres. In some international locations, 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 ideas, or what a good friend stated. One thing that feels regular might result in a wonderful.

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

Examine the final velocity limits in km or mph. Costume proper. And benefit from the trip!

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About The Author

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