Extra items required when driving abroad

In most European countries you have to carry a warning triangle, spare bulbs, first aid kit, spare glasses and your vehicle registration documents. Austria, Belgium, Croatia, France, Italy, Slovakia, Spain and Portugal require high-visibility waistcoats or jackets to be carried in the passenger area and used by every adult in case of breakdown.

 

Items you should carry when driving in France

• Warning triangle: if your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident, you must give warning to approaching traffic by placing a warning triangle 50 - 150 metres behind your vehicle. The use of hazard warning lights alone is not enough.
• A complete set of light bulbs: all lamps, including lenses and reflectors must be in working order, even during daylight hours. Failure to be in a position to replace an exterior bulb could result in a temporary stop of your journey and/or an on-the-spot fine.
• Headlamp beam adaptors: failure to adapt your headlamps at any time, day or night, will render your vehicle unfit for use on the road and could invalidate your motor insurance.
• GB sticker: required by law to indicate country of registration.
• First Aid kit and fire extinguisher: The European Good Samaritan Law requires every driver to stop and provide assistance when an accident is encountered, providing it is safe to do so. This may require a first aid kit and fire extinguisher and it is advisable to have these items when driving in France.
• Reflective vest: Anyone providing roadside assistance or leaving a stranded vehicle should always wear a reflective vest for their own safety. This is now a legal requirement in a number of European countries. (EU ref: RD1428/2003 and Art.162 Cod4 Bis4 Ter - CDS 2003.)

Please see our parts and spares page for these accessories.