Caught Driving in Flip Flops? 8 Bizarre Myths That May Destroy 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 superb and even void your insurance coverage. Listed here are 8 frequent driving myths that might smash your Journey in Europe.

When you’re working whereas touring, plan forward. Select a quiet spot for video calls. Pack a laptop computer stand. Be sure you have robust Wi-Fi. Don’t neglect 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 need 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 elements of France, it’s not. Being shirtless whereas driving might be seen as “improper driving.” Naked pores and skin can keep on with seats or slide on leather-based. This would possibly scale back management.

If a police officer thinks your outfit impacts the way you drive, they will cease and superb 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 except you actually need to.

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

3. Flip-Flops are Superb

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 scale 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 maintain a backup pair within the automobile. However should you don’t put on glasses, you’re superb.

Nonetheless, maintaining an outdated pair close by may assist keep away from bother. It’s a small factor that may forestall large 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. When you crash and weren’t carrying sneakers, it may 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 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 tough routes.

6. The Rule for Pajamas

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

Sure, pajamas would possibly really feel cozy. But when they appear like sleepwear, you can get stopped. When you 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 elements of Europe. However pulling over within the fallacious place might be unlawful. In Germany or Norway, don’t cease on the Autobahn except 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 vital in locations like Greece and Croatia.

8. One License Often 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 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 verify forward. An IDP prices only a few kilos. Get it on the Submit 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 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 ideas, or what a pal mentioned. One thing that feels regular may result in a superb.

Driving overseas continues to be an effective way to discover Europe. Slightly planning helps. Be taught 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.

Examine the overall velocity 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 ideas, and classes from chasing freedom via distant work, one step at a time.