Driving in Europe? Don’t Forget These Essential Stickers and Safety Must-Haves!

Planning a road trip across Europe in your UK-registered car? With a few rules on vehicle identification and safety kits, a bit of preparation will set you up for a smooth journey. Here’s a simple guide on what you need to know about stickers and essential equipment before you set off.

1. Understanding the UK Sticker Requirement

Since September 2021, drivers of UK-registered vehicles need to use a "UK" sticker rather than the old "GB" sticker when driving outside of the UK. This change means that if your number plate displays the older “GB” code, you’ll need to replace it with a “UK” sticker to comply with international regulations.

Do You Need a UK Sticker?

• If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union Jack flag, you're typically covered. However, in certain countries, you’ll need a UK sticker no matter what your plate shows.
• For example, Spain, Cyprus, and Malta require a UK sticker even if your number plate displays the Union Jack.

To avoid confusion, it’s best to add a UK sticker to your car if you’re unsure of any country’s rules—it’s a simple step that guarantees compliance wherever you drive.

Where to Place the UK Sticker

• Place the sticker on the rear of your car, in a clearly visible position.

2. Driving Safety Kit Essentials

In addition to a UK sticker, European countries often have specific safety requirements for vehicles on their roads. While requirements can vary, here’s a list of common items you might need:

• Warning Triangle: Many countries require a warning triangle in the event of a breakdown.
• Reflective Jacket: If you need to step out of your car on a motorway, some countries require all occupants to wear reflective jackets for visibility.
• Spare Bulbs: In case of a headlight or taillight failure, a spare set of bulbs is useful and required in some places.
• First Aid Kit: While not mandatory everywhere, a basic first aid kit is advised for safety and can be a legal requirement in some countries.

Checking the requirements of each country you’ll drive through can save hassle later.

Final Checklist Before You Go

• Double-check that you have a UK sticker (not GB) on the back of your car if your number plate doesn’t include a UK identifier with the Union Jack flag.
• Confirm whether countries on your route require a safety kit and any specific items, such as reflective jackets or spare bulbs.

3. Don’t Forget Your Voyager European Breakdown Cover

Most UK vehicle breakdown policies will not cover you for breakdowns, recovery or repatriation in/ from mainland Europe as standard, so should something go wrong, it could cost you thousands.

With Voyager European Breakdown Cover you can rest assured knowing that if you have a problem with your vehicle across 35 European countries, you’ll receive 24-hour emergency breakdown assistance, from roadside assistance, to being taken to a local repairs garage or even the repatriation of your vehicle to the UK, if the situation requires it.

Click here to find out more about European Breakdown in case you have a breakdown or accident while on your European road trip.

With your UK sticker in place, safety gear packed, and Breakdown Cover sorted you’ll be well-prepared to hit the road and enjoy the journey. Bon voyage!

This article is for information purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing however please check the latest policy wording here for the latest policy terms, conditions and exclusions.