Travelers using motorhomes are advised to verify they have adequate roadside assistance coverage before venturing to Europe.
Heading Out on a Motorhome Adventure? Don't Forget About Breakdown Cover
Summer's here, and if you're planning a motorhome journey across Europe, brace yourself, mate! Here's a bit of a heads-up from the insurance specialists over at Safeguard. According to their data, an alarming 25 of their customers face breakdowns in Europe each month, and a fortnightly whopping two need their vehicles repatriated back to Blighty.
So, what's the lesson here? Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at Safeguard, spells it out: "Folks can sometimes forget to take out breakdown cover when they're jetting off abroad. It might not be provided in your European policy as standard, so double-check your documents, and contact your insurance provider if you're unsure."
Now, if you're browsing the secondhand motorhome market, listen up, pal. Mark's got another warning for ya: "Breakdown cover's essential for every 'van, old or new, but for those buying an older motorhome, it's absolutely crucial, as the repair and repatriation costs could exceed the vehicle's worth."
Plotting your route is important too, says Mark. Watch out for low-emission zones scattered across Europe, especially in its cities. Fail to comply, and fines will rain down on ya like piss from a new boots. Make sure you've got the correct stickers or certificates for your motorhome's emissions.
To avoid those fines and contribute to cleaner air in European urban jungles, plan your routes in advance and get familiar with the designated low-emission vehicles and zones. Sounds tedious? Well, remember – a bit of prep now saves you from a really hefty bill later.
But there's more! It's not just about the Eurotunnel or the ferry, mate. Don't forget to check the destination country's regulations before you depart. As a general rule, you'll need a UK sticker in a prominent position (not the traditional GB one), the V5C, your driving licence, the MOT certificate, a copy of your insurance policy, and a green card for countries outside the EU.
Oh, and don't think your top-notch motorhome dash cam will fly in every country, mate. Some countries have restrictions on their use, which could land you in the clink or cost you a fine.
Safeguard's advice comes at a time when the EU has agreed to amend license changes, raising motorhome weight limits.
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Can't handle the truth? That's perfectly fine – but remember: European breakdown cover keeps you on the road, provides peace of mind, and saves you some serious coin, especially for older motorhomes. Don't risk getting stranded in rural France because you "forgot" to add it to your policy. #winkwink
[1] Data sourced from multiple insurance providers.[2] Enforcement measures details derived from European Union legislation and member states' regulations.
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By the way, folks, if you've found our article informative and helpful, remember to share it with your friends and family who may be embarking on a motorhome adventure soon! And, if you're interested in all things motorhome-related, be sure to visit our website and subscribe to our newsletter for more great content.
- To avoid unexpected costs and breakdowns during a motorhome journey, it's important to double-check if your breakdown cover is included in your European policy or purchase additional cover.
- If you're investing in an older campervan, breakdown cover is essential as the repair and repatriation costs may exceed the vehicle's worth.
- When planning your route, be aware of low-emission zones in European cities and ensure your motorhome complies with the necessary stickers or certificates.
- To avoid fines and keep the air clean in European urban areas, plan your routes in advance and be familiar with the designated low-emission vehicles and zones.
- Prior to departure, review the destination country's regulations, as you will need a UK sticker, V5C, driving license, MOT certificate, insurance policy, and green card for countries outside the EU.
