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

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

If you happen to’re working whereas touring, plan forward. Select a quiet spot for video calls. Pack a laptop computer stand. Be sure you have sturdy Wi-Fi. Don’t overlook your well being both. Stretch throughout breaks. Drink water. Carry 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 widespread myths about driving overseas that you ought to be conscious of:

1. No Shirt, No Drive

Many individuals suppose it’s okay to drive and not using a shirt. However in locations like Spain, Italy, and components of France, it’s not. Being shirtless whereas driving will be seen as “improper driving.” Naked pores and skin can persist with seats or slide on leather-based. This may cut back management.

If a police officer thinks your outfit impacts the way you drive, they’ll cease and advantageous 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 could be 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 except you actually need to.

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

3. Flip-Flops are Effective

Footwear may cause issues for drivers. Flip-flops, backless sandals, and comfortable sneakers might really feel cozy. However in France, they’re seen as unsafe. Police can cease you in the event that they suppose your sneakers cut 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 when you don’t put on glasses, you’re advantageous.

Nonetheless, conserving an outdated pair close by may assist keep away from hassle. It’s a small factor that may forestall 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, however it may nonetheless trigger issues. If you happen to crash and weren’t carrying sneakers, it may rely towards you.

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

Put good sneakers on earlier than driving, particularly on lengthy or difficult 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 onerous to maneuver or react shortly, that’s an issue.

Sure, pajamas may really feel cozy. But when they appear to be sleepwear, you might get stopped. If you happen to 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 unsuitable place will be unlawful. In Germany or Norway, don’t cease on the Autobahn except it’s a protected zone. France and Italy even have guidelines.

Need to supply somebody a experience? Use official relaxation stops. Don’t cease simply wherever. 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 okay in most European international locations. This consists of international locations like Austria and Poland. This rule applies to brief visits.

However some locations exterior the EU may want an Worldwide Driving Allow (IDP). In international locations like Cyprus or Hungary, it’s greatest to verify forward. An IDP prices only a few kilos. Get it on the Publish Workplace or via 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, 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 may want a UK sticker or particular registration.

Select Leisure, a Kent-based motorhome firm, says confusion is widespread. Don’t belief outdated blogs, TikTok suggestions, or what a good friend mentioned. One thing that feels regular may result in a advantageous.

Driving overseas continues to be a good way to discover Europe. Slightly planning helps. Study the native legal guidelines. Pack good with EktaTraveling medical insurance prepared, too. Keep away from the myths. That means, you’ll be able to benefit from the journey and never fear a couple of ticket.

Verify the final velocity limits in km or mph. Costume 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, finances suggestions, and classes from chasing freedom via distant work, one step at a time.