Trip checklist

Paperwork

• Passports valid for the whole trip (and 6 months where needed)
• Check visa or travel authorisation requirements
• Travel insurance booked (include breakdown cover abroad)
• Driving licence and, if needed, an international driving permit
• Vehicle log book (V5C) and insurance certificate
• Save copies of all documents to your phone and the cloud

Vehicle

• Service, oil and coolant checked
• Tyres checked, including tread, pressures and the spare
• Brakes, lights and wipers checked
• Required kit on board (warning triangle, hi-vis, first aid, bulbs)
• Country stickers, headlight adaptors and any clean-air permits
• Breakdown cover valid in every country you're driving through

Bookings

• Ferry or car train booked
• All overnight stays booked
• Tolls, vignettes and city charges sorted
• Any must-do attractions booked ahead
• Parking checked at each stay

Money & phone

• Tell your bank you're travelling
• Card that works abroad without big fees
• Some local cash for tolls and small places
• Roaming or eSIM sorted
• Offline maps downloaded

Packing

• Chargers, cables and a car phone mount
• Snacks, water and a cool bag
• Medication and travel first aid
• Weather-appropriate clothing and shoes
• Entertainment for passengers

Before you leave

• Share your route with someone at home
• Home secured: bins, plants, post, heating
• Fuel or charge topped up the night before
• Check traffic, weather and any road closures