Caught Driving in Flip Flops? 8 Bizarre Myths That Might Wreck 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 fantastic and even void your insurance coverage. Listed here are 8 frequent driving myths that might destroy your Journey in Europe.

For those who’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 overlook your well being both. Stretch throughout breaks. Drink water. Convey snacks. This makes it simpler to keep wholesome whereas on the highway.

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So let’s clear up the confusion. Listed here are eight frequent myths about driving overseas that you ought to be conscious of:

1. No Shirt, No Drive

Many individuals suppose it’s okay to drive with no shirt. However in locations like Spain, Italy, and components of France, it’s not. Being shirtless whereas driving might be seen as “improper driving.” Naked pores and skin can follow seats or slide on leather-based. This would possibly cut back management.

If a police officer thinks your outfit impacts the way you drive, they’ll cease and fantastic 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 you. Your common horn works fantastic. You don’t want a “international horn.”

3. Flip-Flops are High-quality

Footwear could cause issues for drivers. Flip-flops, backless sandals, and tender footwear could really feel cozy. However in France, they’re seen as unsafe. Police can cease you in the event that they suppose your footwear cut back your management. The identical guidelines apply in Eire, Bulgaria, or Poland.

4. Spare Glasses Rule

There’s a rumor that every 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 if you happen to don’t put on glasses, you’re fantastic.

Nonetheless, holding an outdated pair close by might assist keep away from bother. It’s a small factor that may stop huge 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, but it surely might nonetheless trigger issues. For those who crash and weren’t carrying footwear, it might rely towards 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 stable 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 tough routes.

6. The Rule for Pajamas

Carrying pajamas whereas driving might sound okay. However not in every single place. In Spain, police have fined drivers for “improper” clothes. In case your outfit makes it arduous to maneuver or react rapidly, that’s an issue.

Sure, pajamas would possibly really feel cozy. But when they appear like sleepwear, you could possibly get stopped. For those who wouldn’t put on it to the store in Gibraltar, Jersey or Denmark, don’t put on it to drive.

7. Choosing Up Hitchhikers Isn’t All the time Authorized

Hitchhiking nonetheless exists in some components of Europe. However pulling over within the incorrect place might 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 supply somebody a experience? Use official relaxation stops. Don’t cease simply anyplace. That is necessary 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 legitimate 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 quick 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 examine 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 Bear in mind

Earlier than your subsequent highway journey, examine 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 frequent. Don’t belief outdated blogs, TikTok suggestions, or what a pal mentioned. One thing that feels regular might result in a fantastic.

Driving overseas continues to be an effective way to discover Europe. A little bit planning helps. Be taught the native legal guidelines. Pack good with EktaTraveling medical insurance prepared, too. Keep away from the myths. That approach, you possibly can benefit from the journey and never fear a couple of ticket.

Examine the overall pace limits in km or mph. Gown proper. And benefit from the experience!

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About The Author

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