What insurance cover do you need to drive abroad?

If you are driving your own car or hiring a car whilst you are abroad you need to have appropriate car insurance in addition to travel insurance.

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Can you be refused Travel Insurance?
Insurance is all about risk. The greater the risk of an illness, accident, loss or another event occurring, the higher the premium you will be expected to pay for cover. If the Insurance Company decides that the chances of an incident occurring are extremely high, it is not obliged to insure you.
Are there any reasons why I may be unable to claim?
All claims should be honoured by your Travel Insurance Company providing you have supplied correct information and acted responsibly with your personal belongings. If this is not the case, your policy will be void and you will be unable to claim!
What is Form E111 and do you really need it?
Yes, if you are travelling within the European Economic Area, you should get the Form E111, which entitles most UK residents to free, or reduced- cost emergency medical treatment. However, you will still need appropriate travel insurance for complete peace of mind.
Do you need special travel insurance for ski-ing holidays?
At the very least you should top up standard travel insurance with ski cover - but you are probably better off buying a specialist ski or extreme sports travel policy which gives you more extensive cover.
How much can you really save buying travel insurance online?
You could save up to 40% through Securance, our partners for Travel Insurance.
The channel tunnel has made it easier than ever for us to drive our own cars on the Continent. Nowadays UK holidaymakers think nothing of getting behind their steering wheel and heading for locations throughout Europe.

However, unfamiliar surroundings, driving on the left hand side and different driving laws all combine to heighten the risks of accidents for even the most confident of drivers. What’s more, if your car breaks down in a foreign country you are unlikely to have sufficient cover.

Although your UK car insurance covers you for third party liability in EU countries, you should really consider extending your cover through your car insurer. Check out and arrange suitable breakdown cover too – it could save you a fortune.

If you are renting a car whilst you are on abroad, the car hire company should offer you appropriate car insurance. Check the details on the insurance document carefully before signing any agreement.

In some countries especially those outside the EU you may require an International Driving Permit in addition to your UK driving licence. It’s essential to apply for an International Driving Permit before going abroad either through the AA, RAC or some branches of the Post Office.

If you are staying in another country for long period of time, working there or on a business trip – you must find out if there are any specific licensing requirements before relying your international driving permit.