Travel Requirements for Europe Trip

 

  1. Passport and Visas (if required)
  2. Proper size GB sticker at Rear (EU number plate is acceptable)
  3. Driving Licence
  4. V5 Log book
  5. Insurance certificate plus Green Card if insurance certificate does not cover it
  6. Accident Document (see Appendices)
  7. First Aid kit
  8. Spare bulb kit
  9. Warning triangle (possibly optional for motorcycles)
  10. Insulating tape and Tywraps
  11. Torch and Batteries
  12. Spare set of keys
  13. Sunglasses and sunblock/aftersun
  14. Cash in Euros plus credit cards (split it up amongst different pockets and bits of luggage) keep loose change available for tolls
  15. Reference numbers and bank numbers for cancelling cards if stolen
  16. Mobile phone ( don’t forget means of charging it and check it will work overseas)
  17. Vehicle locking devices ( don’t leave helmet attached to bike by strap)
  18. Bottles of drinking water ( can be 40 deg plus in summer) keep them handy
  19. Remember to drive on the right especially when leaving petrol/service stations etc
  20. Speed limits:
    1. Luxembourg and Belgium

                                                               i.      Motorways 75mph

                                                              ii.      Other roads 56 mph

                                                            iii.      Towns etc 31 mph

                                                            iv.      In Belgium you must give way to traffic emerging from the right, watch out for roundabouts especially, also watch out for and give way to Trams.

    1. France

                                                               i.      Motorways 80 mph

                                                              ii.      Dual Carriage 69 mph

                                                            iii.      Other Roads 56 mph

                                                            iv.      Towns etc 31 mph

 

  1. Watch out for tighter entry and exit slip roads on motorways (may catch you unawares, especially when looking at signage)
  2. All countries will dish out on the spot fines for offences, in France watch for Police checks at "Stop" signs; you must STOP, not just slow down - a foot on the ground is a wise precaution.
  3. France has tolls on motorways, usually designated “A” roads, can pay by credit cards
  4. Signs are sometimes in dual language particularly Belgium and Northern France
  5. Electrical voltage is 220V AC using round 2 pin sockets ( need travel adaptors)
  6. Waterproofs
  7. Maps preferably 1:250000 scale
  8. European Health card (replacement for E111 form)
  9. Travel/breakdown insurance
  10. Phrase books useful – French, Dutch ( Flemish speaking Belgians will be able to understand most of it), German
  11. Video/still camera plus films / charging adaptor etc
  12. Minimum clothing:
    1. 3 pairs shreddies, 3 pairs socks
    2. 3 T shirts, 1 smartish shirt plus tie
    3. 1 pair jeans
    4. 1 pair smart trousers
    5. 1 pair joggy bottoms
    6. 1 pair trainers or deck shoes
    7. 1 pair flip flops
    8. 1 foldup anorak/light jacket

Appendices

 

Security & General Tips

The following advice on security and laws and customs can help you stay out of trouble while you are abroad.

Security

  • Be security conscious and take sensible precautions
  • Be alert to unattended baggage in public places
  • Look out for people acting suspiciously near ‘Western’ institutions or gatherings
  • Avoid political and other demonstrations or gatherings
  • Check cars and other vehicles thoroughly for explosive devices before use; especially if the vehicle has been left unguarded for any time
  • Vary your route if making regular journeys
  • Avoid unlit streets at night
  • Carry only the minimum amount of cash that you need for the day
  • Leave your valuables and spare cash in the hotel safe or other secure place
  • Do not flaunt your (relative) wealth
  • Never resist violent theft
  • Check your guidebook, with your hotel or tour guide for warnings on local scams
  • Keep abreast of the local and regional political scene in the media

Obey the law

  • Find out about local laws and customs.
  • Remember that the laws and procedures which apply are those of the country you are in, not the UK’s.
  • Do not overstay your visa. You can extend your visa in most places; if you do not you can be imprisoned or fined.
  • Do not work illegally. You can be deported, fined and imprisoned if you do. You may also be prevented from entering the country again in the future.
  • Hobbies that involve the use of cameras and binoculars (like bird watching and train or plane spotting) can be misunderstood (particularly near military sites). If you are not sure, don't do it – it is not worth the risk of being wrongly arrested for spying.

Drugs

  • DO NOT get involved with drugs
  • Obey local laws. Penalties are often severe and include massive fines and long prison sentences in grim conditions. You can receive the death penalty in some countries. We cannot get you out.
  • NEVER carry packages through Customs for other people.
  • Do not sit in anyone else's vehicle when going through Customs or crossing a border – always get out and walk.
  • Always pack your own baggage and never leave it unattended.
  • If driving do not lend your vehicle to anyone else.
  • Do not give medicines prescribed for you by a doctor to people you meet on your travels.

Alcohol

  • Be aware of the local laws and attitudes to alcohol.
  • Do not try to import alcohol into a country where it is prohibited - penalties can be severe.
  • Public drunkenness is frowned on wherever you are.

Driving

  • DO NOT drink and drive.
  • Make sure you know the driving laws, licence requirements and driving conditions specific to the country you are visiting.
  • Make sure your UK driving licence is current and valid. Some countries require you to hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your UK licence.
  • If you are staying for an extended period of time or for any reason other than tourism check what the driving licence requirements are.
  • Be aware that in many countries there are on-the-spot fines for traffic offences. Exceptions are not made for foreigners.

If there is a natural disaster or trouble flares up

  • Contact your family and friends to let them know that you are safe and healthy.
  • Do this even if you are not near the area – remember family and friends will not know exactly where you are but they will worry if they think you are in potential danger.

Money & Credit Cards

  • Use a money belt or secure inside pocket. If you have to carry a lot of money ask your partner or a friend to carry some for you.
  • Don't carry all your cards with you – leave at least one in the hotel safe. If you lose or have your credit card stolen cancel it immediately by phoning the relevant 24-hour emergency number.
  • Change money in banks or legal foreign exchange dealers. It is often illegal to change with unauthorised persons, and you run the risk of receiving fake currency and arrest.
  • Keep all exchange receipts, as you may have to prove you obtained your local currency legally.
  • Ensure your credit card bills are paid and kept up-to-date whilst travelling.
  • Consider where your money goes. Try and put money into local people’s hands; try local drinks rather than imported brands; stay in locally-owned accommodation and try to eat in locally-owned restaurants.

Travel documents

  • Keep your passport in the hotel safe and carry a photocopy with you.
  • Keep your travel tickets in a safe place.

If you have anything stolen

  • If your money, passport or anything else is stolen report it at once to the local police.
  • Obtain a police statement about the loss: you will need one to claim against your insurance.
  • Theft of money – phone your bank at home to transfer money or to cancel your credit card using the relevant 24-hour emergency number.
  • Theft of traveller's cheques – contact the issuing agent.
  • Theft of tickets – see your tour representative or airline agent.

Respect the local Environment

  • Think about what happens to your rubbish e.g. take biodegradable products and a water filter bottle to cut down on plastic waste.
  • Help preserve local wildlife and habitats by respecting rules and regulations. Be aware that buying any wildlife souvenirs or products is highly risky – If in doubt don’t buy! See the UK Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Souvenir Alert! Campaign, which highlights the pitfalls of buying wildlife souvenirs abroad and also Trade Hotspots.
  • Customs throughout the world confiscate illegal souvenirs and in the UK you could face a criminal prosecution and unlimited fines.

Cultural Awareness

  • Get a good guidebook. This will tell you about the country you are visiting. Find out about local laws, customs and culture.
  • Take a phrase book and try speaking the local language.
  • Respect local customs and dress codes. Think about what you wear and how you fit in. Ask your tour operator or guide if you are unsure.
  • Be discreet about your views on cultural differences and behave and dress appropriately, particularly when visiting religious sites, markets and rural communities.
  • Particular care should be taken not to offend Islamic codes of dress and behaviour with regard to sexual relations, alcohol and drugs.
  • Always ask an individual’s permission before you take a photograph and respect their reply. In some cultures you should not attempt to photograph women.
  • Don’t haggle too aggressively. In most countries where haggling is the norm, it is done with good humour and not for too long. Although prices are usually inflated for tourists, it’s also important to remember that the discount you are haggling over could be a few pence for you but a significant means of income for a seller.
  • It is always best to err on the side of caution. Behaviour that would be regarded as innocuous elsewhere can lead to serious trouble.

 

 

 

If It All Goes Wrong

Any British national who gets into difficulty overseas can seek help from the nearest British diplomatic mission 24 hours a day. Where there is no British representative in a country, British nationals may instead contact the nearest EU Mission in that country.

The first thing you should do if anything goes wrong is to contact your relatives and friends at home. They can then take appropriate action within the UK. The same advice should be taken if a natural disaster occurs during your visit to a foreign country.

In most cases people only need advice, but in cases of real difficulty such as death abroad, serious accidents and illnesses, arrests and detentions, or those at risk of physical harm, the Consul will take action.

We have information on Consular Services and what you may need to do yourself. The best policy is to get it right 'before you go'.

 

EUROPEAN ACCIDENT STATEMENT

The European Accident Statement (EAS) is a standard form available throughout Europe in various languages. Its purpose is to get an agreed statement of facts when people are involved in road accidents, to assist with the processing of any subsequent insurance claims.

Insurance customers may be provided with a copy of the EAS before travelling in Europe.

Organisations wishing to obtain bulk supplies of the EAS in the English language should approach one of the following companies, who will be able to advise on price and terms of sale:

Lonsdale Print Solutions Ltd
Denington Estate
Wellingborough
Northamptonshire
NN8 2RA

Telephone: 01933 228855
Fax: 01933 440132
Email: neil.kipling@lonsdaleps.co.uk

Somers Group Ltd
9 Maxted Road
Hemel Hempstead
Hertfordshire
HP2 7DX

Telephone: 01442 269201
Fax: 01442 258273
Email: enquiries@thesomersgroup.co.uk (for the attention of Ms Sharman Webb)

 

These top five tips for avoiding crime on holiday may seem like common sense, but these extra precautions could save you money and help you avoid distress.

1. On your doorstep - if you cancel your milk and newspaper deliveries, it won't look obvious that you're away. You could even ask a neighbour to collect your post.
For more information on what to do before you go select this link.

2. Check your room - just like at home your accommodation should have a solid door and a lock. Be sure to look for signs of previous break-in, such as marks on the doors and windows, and if in doubt, ask to change your room.
For more information select this link.

3. Travellers cheques - if your cash gets stolen, it's gone forever, but if you make a note of the serial numbers on travellers cheques you can reclaim the lost money.
This link takes you to more information.

4. Travel insurance is worth it - it may seem like a pointless expense when you're lying on a beach, but it's a false economy not to get proper insurance, you could end up paying out hundreds of pounds just for the ambulence taking you to hospital.
Select this link for more advice.

5. Learn some local laws - save yourself a lot of fuss and bother with the local authorities by learning a little about the country you're visiting. Your idea of polite behaviour might be seen as an insult in some countries.
Follow this link for more advice.

 

SHOPPING WITHIN THE EU

 

You can:

 

Bring back into the UK as much EU duty paid tobacco and alcohol as you like as long as it is for your own use, which includes:

 

•Bringing back goods for your own consumption.

•Bringing back gifts for family and friends.

 

You cannot:

 

Bring back goods for commercial purposes, which includes:

 

•Bringing back goods for payment - even payment in kind.

•Bringing back goods for friends and family if they are paying you, giving you the cost price or paying for some or all of your travel costs.

•Bringing back goods for re-sale.

 

If you bring back large quantities of alcohol or tobacco goods and are stopped by Customs you may be asked some basic questions about your trip and purchases and the purposes for which you hold the goods. This particularly applies if you have with you more than the following amounts:

•3200 cigarettes • 400 cigarillos

•200 cigars • 3kg of smoking tobacco

•110 litres of beer • 10 litres of spirits

•90 litres of wine • 20 litres of fortified wine (such as port or sherry)

 

These are only guide levels based on European law and Customs do NOT enforce any absolute limits

 

The EU countries are: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, The Irish Republic, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain (but not the Canary Islands), Sweden, The UK (but not Gibraltar or the Channel Islands).

The questions and checks which the Officer makes could be about:

 

•The frequency of your travel

•The amount and type of goods purchased

•The reason for purchasing goods

•The method of payment used

•Levels of consumption

•Whether all your goods are openly displayed or concealed.

•Any other relevant circumstances.

 

The Officer will take into account all the factors of the situation and your explanation. If you are unable or you refuse to provide a satisfactory explanation the Officer may well conclude that those goods are for commercial purposes and not for your own use. If the Officer is satisfied the goods are being brought into the UK for a commercial purpose, and are not for own use, the goods, along with any vehicle used to transport them, will be liable to seizure and may not be returned.