Documents

Travel between EU countries is now so easy that you can drive across Europe without ever being stopped at a customs post.

But don't let this deceive you into thinking you can drive in Europe with no more than the documents and insurance you need in the UK. Before taking a car abroad it's vital to make sure your paperwork is in order, and that you take with you everything that the local police might ask to see if they stop you.

This includes accessories such as a warning triangle, which is a legal requirement in most of Europe but not the UK.

Essential items can easily be overlooked, especially when just popping over to France for a day trip, and drivers don't realise the potential hassle they are letting themselves in for until they are involved in an accident and the police arrive.