Caught Driving in Flip Flops? 8 Bizarre Myths That May Smash Your Street Journey in Europe

Sure, you can drive in flip flops in most of Europe, however not all over the place! Some nations have shocking guidelines that would land you a tremendous and even void your insurance coverage. Listed below are 8 widespread driving myths that would damage your Journey in Europe.

Should you’re working whereas touring, plan forward. Select a quiet spot for video calls. Pack a laptop computer stand. Be sure to have sturdy 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 below 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 might be seen as “improper driving.” Naked pores and skin can follow 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 tremendous you. Even in the summertime warmth of Greece, Malta or Cyprus, put on a lightweight 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 really want to.

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

3. Flip-Flops are Superb

Footwear may cause issues for drivers. Flip-flops, backless sandals, and comfortable footwear could really feel comfortable. However in France, they’re seen as unsafe. Police can cease you in the event that they suppose your footwear 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 tremendous.

Nonetheless, maintaining an previous pair close by may assist keep away from bother. It’s a small factor that may forestall massive 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 nations like Finland, nevertheless it may nonetheless trigger issues. Should you crash and weren’t sporting footwear, it may rely in opposition to you.

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

Put good footwear on earlier than driving, particularly on lengthy or tough routes.

6. The Rule for Pajamas

Sporting pajamas whereas driving may appear 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 rapidly, that’s an issue.

Sure, pajamas may really feel comfortable. But when they appear like sleepwear, you would get stopped. Should you wouldn’t put on it to the store in Gibraltar, Jersey or Denmark, don’t put on it to drive.

7. Choosing Up Hitchhikers Isn’t At all times Authorized

Hitchhiking nonetheless exists in some components of Europe. However pulling over within the incorrect 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.

Need to supply somebody a experience? Use official relaxation stops. Don’t cease simply anyplace. That is essential 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 nations. This consists of nations like Austria and Poland. This rule applies to quick visits.

However some locations exterior the EU may want an Worldwide Driving Allow (IDP). In nations like Cyprus or Hungary, it’s greatest to verify forward. An IDP prices just some 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 Keep 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 nations, 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 previous blogs, TikTok ideas, or what a pal mentioned. One thing that feels regular may result in a tremendous.

Driving overseas remains to be an effective way to discover Europe. Somewhat planning helps. Be taught the native legal guidelines. Pack sensible with EktaTraveling medical insurance prepared, too. Keep away from the myths. That method, you may benefit from the journey and never fear a few ticket.

Examine the overall pace 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 school, 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.