travelling to europe with your car

Europe Travel by Car: How to Plan Your Europe Road Trip in 2023

Looking for a guide on how to plan your Europe travel by car? Our ultimate guide provides essential tips, must-visit destinations, and cross-border regulations for your travel needs.

Europe is a continent that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a place that is best explored at your own pace, with the freedom to stop whenever you want to take in the breathtaking views and landmarks along the way. And what better way to do that than by planning a road trip across Europe?

Europe travel by car allows you to experience the charm of small towns, countryside landscapes, and other hidden gems often missed when traveling via public transport or plane. One of the key advantages of embarking on a Europe road trip is the ability to see more than one country during your travels.

You can explore different cultures and cuisines while driving from one country to another. The continent has an excellent network of roads and highways connecting major cities and smaller towns and villages.

With good planning and organization, you can cover several countries in a single trip or spend more time exploring one particular region in depth. Moreover, Europe travel by car offers flexibility in terms of timing – you can decide when to start your journey or make stops along the route without being bound by transportation schedules.

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Table of Contents

A Guide on How to Plan Your Europe Travel by Car

The unparalleled joy of self-driving vacations in Europe cannot be overstated. The freedom of the open road, the ability to stop and explore at will, and the chance to take in breathtaking scenery are all key reasons why Europe travel by car is an experience unlike any other.

For adventurers who yearn for a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of this fascinating continent, a road trip across Europe is a must. Key advantages of exploring Europe by car include giving travelers complete control over their itinerary.

You can choose your own pace, make impromptu stops, and even change your route as you go along. Road trips in Europe also allow travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture at their own leisurely pace; whether it’s sampling regional wines or indulging in local cuisine, there’s no better way to get a true sense of European life than by hitting the open road.

And with so many picturesque towns and hidden gems scattered throughout the continent, something new and exciting is always waiting to be discovered on a Europe road trip. Of course, planning a successful European road trip requires careful preparation.

One of the most critical aspects is thorough route planning. This means considering factors such as distance, driving hours per day (and taking breaks!), and ensuring you have time for stops at top European sights and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Choosing the right vehicle for your adventure is important; do you want to rent or bring your own? Will you need something fuel-efficient or with all-wheel drive?

Getting proper documentation sorted out beforehand is also crucial – remember insurance! With so many things to consider before embarking on an epic tour across Europe by car, it’s essential to plan carefully but leave some room for spontaneity, too — after all, isn’t that what makes travel fun?

The unparalleled joy of self-driving vacations in Europe

The unparalleled joy of self-driving vacations in Europe is something that every traveler needs to experience at least once in their lifetime. There’s just something special about hitting the open road and exploring the stunning scenery, quaint villages, and vibrant cities that make up this incredible continent. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Europe travel by car has become increasingly popular over the years.

One of the biggest advantages of embarking on a Europe road trip is its freedom and flexibility. Unlike other modes of transportation, you can decide where you go, how long you stay there, and what route you take.

This allows you to fully immerse yourself in each destination without feeling rushed or constrained by schedules or tour groups. Plus, with so many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations waiting to be discovered all across Europe, having your own set of wheels gives you access to places that might otherwise be difficult (if possible) to reach via public transportation or walking tours.

Another major perk of Europe travel by car is the sense of adventure it provides. Whether navigating winding mountain roads or cruising along scenic coastal highways, every turn can bring a new surprise or breathtaking view.

Plus, there’s something undeniably satisfying about reaching a destination after tackling a challenging drive – it feels like an accomplishment in its own right! So if you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience Europe, consider hitting the road on your next vacation – who knows what amazing sights (and memories) await!

Key advantages of exploring Europe by car

Exploring Europe by car is one of the most exhilarating experiences a traveler can undertake. There are several key advantages to a road trip in Europe, including the freedom to travel at your own pace, the ability to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations, and the flexibility to adjust your itinerary. With some planning, a European road trip can be an unforgettable adventure.

One of the biggest advantages of traveling by car in Europe is the freedom it allows. Unlike train or bus travel, driving gives you complete control over your schedule and allows you to stop and explore at your leisure.

Whether you want to detour through the picturesque countryside or spend an extra day in a charming small town, having your own vehicle means you can do so without worrying about missing connections or adhering to strict schedules. Additionally, European road trips offer unparalleled flexibility when deciding how long you want to stay in each destination; if you fall in love with a particular place along the way, there’s no need to rush off before you’re ready.

Another advantage of exploring Europe by car is that it allows visitors access to some truly exceptional destinations that might be challenging (or even possible) to reach via public transportation. From tiny hilltop villages in Tuscany and hidden beaches on Croatia’s coast, driving gives travelers access to hidden gems that other tourists may never see.

Not only does this make for a more immersive travel experience, but it also means that visitors have opportunities for unique and unforgettable experiences they might not otherwise get. And if adventure is what you seek – exploring remote roads across rugged mountain ranges or winding coastal highways – there’s no better way than taking an epic road trip across Europe.

Essential Tips for Planning a European Road Trip

Planning a European road trip requires careful preparation to maximize your adventure. Before starting your journey, consider the best times of year to visit Europe and key factors like distance, driving hours, and stopovers.

Best times of the year for a road trip across Europe

The best times of the year for a road trip across Europe vary depending on your preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for mild weather and fewer crowds, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are ideal. The landscapes are lush and colorful during these seasons, creating great photo opportunities.

The roads are less congested so you can enjoy your Europe road trip more leisurely. However, if you prefer long days of sunshine and warm temperatures that allow you to swim in the sea or visit outdoor attractions such as parks or beaches, then summer (June to August) is your best bet.

This is also peak season for European tourism, so expect higher prices and larger crowds on popular routes. Conversely, if you’re on a budget or want to avoid touristy areas altogether, winter (December to February) can be a good option — as long as you don’t mind driving in snow or rain.

Some regions may also have limited opening hours during this time of year due to weather conditions. Ultimately, the best time of year for a road trip in Europe depends on what type of experience you’re looking for.

Do you prioritize comfortable weather or empty roads? Are there any cultural festivals or events that interest you?

Plan around those factors while being open-minded enough to adapt your itinerary. Remember: flexibility is key when it comes to road trips across Europe!

The importance of thorough route planning

A Europe road trip can be the ultimate adventure for travelers looking to experience the continent’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures. To make the most of your journey, thorough route planning is essential.

1. Considering factors such as distance, driving hours, and stopovers

When planning a road trip through Europe, several factors must be considered. The first and most essential factor is the distance between your starting point and destination.

While it may be tempting to cover as many countries as possible in one trip, realistically, you must account for driving hours before making any concrete plans. In Europe, the roads are generally excellent, but traffic can be unpredictable.

Plan your route carefully to avoid traffic jams and other delays that could hinder your journey. Depending on how long you plan to travel each day, consider scheduling stopovers to rest or explore some of the beautiful towns in Europe.

This will help break up the long drives and make them more enjoyable for everyone involved in the trip. These small towns offer a glimpse into local culture; they have cafes with delicious food and drinks, cozy accommodations with comfortable beds, and breathtaking views of European landscapes.

Another aspect that you might overlook when planning a road trip in Europe is the duration of driving hours each day. Long drives can be tiresome for everyone involved; therefore, scheduling enough time for breaks during those days when you’re planning to drive long distances is crucial.

When driving around Europe by car, it’s best to aim for no more than four hours of driving per day for everyone’s safety and comfort level. All in all, when considering factors such as distance, driving hours, and stopovers during a European road trip, ensure that you strike a balance between exploring new places while still enjoying yourself without feeling stressed out or exhausted from extended periods on the road each day of your adventure through this fascinating continent!

2. Inclusion of top European sights and off-the-beaten-path destinations

When planning your road trip through Europe, you’ll want to include both the must-see destinations and some off-the-beaten-path gems. Of course, the top European sights are popular for a reason – stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking views.

But feel free to venture away from the tourist crowds and discover some of Europe’s hidden treasures. Among the top European sights that should be on every road trip itinerary are Paris ‘ Eiffel Tower, Rome’s Colosseum, Barcelona’s Park Güell, London’s Big Ben and the Tower Bridge, and Amsterdam’s canals.

These iconic landmarks offer a glimpse into Europe’s rich cultural heritage and are to be noticed. However, it is important to manage your time wisely to fit in other lesser-known destinations along your route.

Some off-the-beaten-path destinations worth considering include:

• Romania’s painted monasteries in Bucovina or visiting the Carpathian Mountains for some hiking.
• Slovenia’s Lake Bled and its surrounding Julian Alps provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as rafting.
• Liechtenstein’s quaint villages with their charming castles.
• Croatia’s stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park.
• Portugal’s Algarve region is famous for its beaches and seafood cuisine.
• Iceland’s famous Route 1 road trip offers vistas of glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking opportunities.

These unique locations offer a different perspective on Europe travel by car – one that is less crowded with tourists but no less impressive.

Choosing the right vehicle for the journey

Choosing the right vehicle is crucial to planning a road trip in Europe. When deciding between rental and personal vehicles, assess the pros and cons of each option.

1. Car rental versus bringing your vehicle

When planning a Europe road trip, one of the first decisions is renting or bringing your vehicle. Both options have pros and cons, so carefully consider what will work best for you. If you rent a car, you can access various vehicles depending on your needs.

Rental companies typically offer cars in all sizes and models, from compact cars for solo travelers or couples with little luggage to larger SUVs or minivans for families or groups traveling with more gear. Additionally, rental cars come equipped with necessities such as insurance and GPS navigation systems.

However, renting a car can be expensive and additional fees can add up quickly, especially if you plan on crossing borders between countries during your Europe travel by car. Make sure you fully understand the rental agreement before signing any contracts.

On the other hand, bringing your vehicle can save money on rentals and give you more flexibility in selecting your route. This option is particularly appealing if you already own an appropriate, comfortable vehicle for long-distance drives.

Plus, having a familiar car can make navigating unfamiliar territory easier and less stressful during Europe road trips. However, driving long distances can cause wear and tear on the vehicle, which may require repairs.

Additionally, certain regulations, such as emissions standards, may prevent non-European vehicles from entering some European cities or countries. Be sure to research these regulations before planning your journey through Europe by car.

2. Selecting the right size, fuel efficiency, and comfort level

When planning your Europe road trip, selecting the right size, fuel efficiency, and comfort level for your vehicle is essential. The size of your car will depend on how many people you are traveling with and what kind of luggage you have.

It’s best to rent a car that is just the right size. You want a car that comfortably fits everyone and their luggage without feeling cramped or uncomfortable.

Additionally, smaller cars are more fuel-efficient than larger ones, saving you gas money during European road trips. Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider when renting or bringing your car for an extended Europe travel by car journey.

Most rental companies offer cars with good gas mileage, but it’s always wise to double-check before signing on the dotted line. Furthermore, consider choosing a diesel-powered vehicle as they tend to have better fuel economy than gasoline-powered vehicles, which can help keep costs down if you drive long distances throughout your trip.

Comfort level should also be considered when selecting a European road trip vehicle. Consider how much time you’ll spend in the car each day and what amenities are important during those long drives.

Features like air conditioning, comfortable seats, and Bluetooth connectivity are all things that can make a big difference in making your road trips in Europe more enjoyable and less stressful. Pack some pillows or neck rests for added comfort during those extended journeys!

Preparing for long drives

Preparing for a long drive is crucial for a road trip in Europe. Adequate rest is important before hitting the road.

1. Adequate rest

One of the most important things to consider when planning your Europe road trip is ensuring enough rest. Driving for long hours can be exhausting, especially if you’re visiting multiple destinations in a short amount of time. While trying to cram as much sightseeing as possible into your itinerary is tempting, taking breaks and giving yourself time to unwind is crucial.

Invest enough time for rest stops and overnight stays when planning your road trip. It’s a good idea to plan out your driving routes carefully so that you can stop at interesting places along the way, such as scenic viewpoints or charming towns.

Avoid driving for more than 4-5 hours per day, and aim to arrive at your destination with plenty of time before sunset. This will allow you to explore each place and truly appreciate what makes it unique.

Another important aspect of getting enough rest on a Europe road trip is choosing comfortable accommodations. While it may be tempting to save money by staying in budget-friendly hotels or hostels, remember that getting a good night’s sleep is key to enjoying your travels.

Consider splurging on cozy bed-and-breakfasts or charming guesthouses with comfy beds and plush linens. This will ensure you feel rested and refreshed each day during your Europe travel by car and help create lasting memories of your journey across this fascinating continent.

2. Smartphone apps and navigation systems for seamless travel

One of the most critical aspects of planning road trips in Europe is ensuring that your navigation system is up-to-date and efficient. Whether you plan on using an app on your smartphone or a dedicated GPS device, having reliable directions can make or break your journey. Numerous options exist, from free apps like Google Maps to paid services like TomTom.

Google Maps is an excellent option for those who prefer to travel light and avoid carrying multiple devices. It offers real-time traffic updates, so you can reroute if needed, and has a wealth of information about restaurants, gas stations, and attractions.

You can also download maps in advance to use offline if you don’t have access to data while traveling. On the other hand, TomTom is designed specifically for driving and offers more advanced routing options than most mobile apps.

It also has voice-guided turn-by-turn directions that work even in areas with limited or no data coverage. When choosing which navigation system to use for your Europe road trip, consider cost, ease of use, the accuracy of maps and directions provided, and any extra features that may be important to you (e.g., traffic updates).

3. Ensuring proper vehicle documentation and insurance coverage

Before starting your Europe road trip, you must ensure proper vehicle documentation and insurance coverage. This can be especially important if you’re renting a car rather than bringing your vehicle. Check with the rental company to see what documentation they require for the car, such as a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.

It’s also crucial to understand the rental agreement fully, including any restrictions or fees for cross-border travel. Regarding insurance coverage, you’ll want to ensure adequate protection in case of an accident or theft.

Most rental companies offer basic insurance coverage as part of the rental agreement, but more is needed, depending on your needs. Consider purchasing additional coverage, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection, for added peace of mind during your Europe travel by car.

If you’re bringing your vehicle from home, ensuring all your documentation is up-to-date and valid for international travel is important. This includes valid driver’s licenses, registration documents, and proof of insurance covering international travel.

Check with your auto insurance provider before leaving home to verify that you have adequate coverage for European road trips. With proper vehicle documentation and insurance coverage, you can relax and enjoy Europe’s stunning scenery on your road trip adventure!

Advice on traveling with children and pets

Traveling with children and pets is an exciting way to create unforgettable memories on your Europe road trip. However, planning and making the necessary arrangements is essential to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey for all. Here are some tips for traveling with children and pets on a Europe travel by car:

When traveling with kids, plan your itinerary accordingly. Make frequent stops along the way, as it can be challenging for young children to sit in a car for long periods.

Pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment options like books, games, or tablets to keep them occupied. Also, consider investing in a backseat organizer or tray table to hold items such as drinks, toys, or coloring supplies within reach.

Proper preparation is key for pets traveling with you on your Europe travel by car adventure. Prioritize their safety by securing them in a pet carrier or harness that attaches to the seat belt during transit.

Bring their bowls to ensure they can access fresh water and food during the trip. Additionally, stop frequently so they can take bathroom breaks and stretch their legs—remember to clean up after them each time.

Traveling with children and pets requires extra planning but can be incredibly rewarding. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to bond with loved ones while exploring new sights during European road trips!

Must-Visit European Destinations by Car

One of the best things about Europe travel by car is the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations often missed by traditional tourists.

Scenic European Road Trips

You’ll be spoiled for choice if you dream of scenic European road trips. Europe’s enchanting landscapes, from the rugged coasts of Croatia to the vineyards of France’s Alsace region, provide picturesque backdrops that are perfect for a road trip. Here are some of our top picks for scenic European road trips that will take your breath away.

1. The Coastal Gems of Croatia: From Zagreb to Dubrovnik

The scenic coastal road trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is a must-do for anyone exploring Croatia by car. This picturesque route spans over 600 kilometers of beautiful coastline and stunning landscapes that will take your breath away.

The journey starts from the capital city of Zagreb, where you can visit the famous St. Mark’s Church, the Museum of Broken Relationships, and other charming spots before hitting the road. Traveling south towards Dubrovnik, you’ll be treated to some of Europe’s most beautiful coastal views.

One of the highlights of this road trip is the Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a collection of 16 turquoise-colored lakes that cascade into each other through a series of waterfalls and cascades.

Walking along wooden footbridges and trails, you’ll feel like you’re in an enchanted forest straight out of a fairy tale. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as this park can get crowded during peak season.

Along with Plitvice Lakes National Park, there are several charming towns worth stopping at, such as Split, Zadar , and Ston, where visitors can experience more than just natural beauty but also soak in Croatia’s rich culture and history. Overall, this road trip provides an unforgettable experience for lovers of nature and architecture on their Europe travel-by-car adventure.

The stunning coastal views and ancient architecture make it a must on any Europe road trip itinerary. So pack your bags, grab your camera, rent a car, or bring your vehicle – get ready for an amazing adventure through one of Europe’s most beautiful countries!

2. Navigating the Picture-Perfect Villages of Cotswolds, England

You must mention the Cotswolds in England to talk about Europe travel by car. This region boasts some of the most picturesque villages in the world, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone going on a Europe road trip.

Driving through the Cotswolds, you will be amazed by the scenic views of thatched-roof cottages, rolling hills, and historic market towns. One notable village in the Cotswolds is Bourton-on-the-Water.

This quaint village is often called “the Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its lovely low bridges that cross over River Windrush. Visitors can stroll along its idyllic streets, take a boat ride down River Windrush, or visit one of its many tea rooms for some classic English scones and tea.

Another village worth visiting is Bibury, which was once described as “the most beautiful village in England” by William Morris. Here, you can explore Arlington Row – a cluster of 14th-century weavers’ cottages preserved over time.

One thing to note while exploring the Cotswolds on your Europe road trip is that some roads are narrow and winding – typical of English country lanes – so it’s important to take caution while driving. However, these roads allow drivers to experience quintessential British countryside driving firsthand!

3. Italian Romance: Tuscany’s Sun-Kissed Tuscan Roads

When planning your Europe road trip, no itinerary is complete without a stop in Tuscany. The region’s sun-kissed Tuscan roads are a quintessential part of any Italian road trip and offer an unbeatable combination of stunning scenery, delicious food, and rich culture.

From the rolling hills of Chianti to charming hilltop towns such as San Gimignano and Montepulciano, driving in Tuscany is an unforgettable experience. One must-visit spot along Tuscany’s sun-kissed Tuscan roads is the medieval city of Siena.

This enchanting town is home to some of the best-preserved architecture in Italy and has a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. The main square, or Piazza del Campo, hosts the famous Palio horse race yearly and is a must-see attraction in Siena.

Drive through the heart of town before stopping at one of its many cafes for an authentic Italian coffee experience. Take time to explore Siena’s narrow winding streets lined with boutique shops selling local goods like olive oils and wines from vineyards across Tuscany while enjoying Italian culinary delights such as tagliatelle al ragù or bistecca alla Fiorentina along with your favorite glass of Chianti wine!

4. Chasing Waterfalls and Fjords in Norway: The Atlantic Ocean Road

If you want to make your Europe travel by car even more spectacular, Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road is a must-visit destination. This stunning 8.3 km road is built on an archipelago of small islands, bridges, and causeways, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding fjords.

One of the highlights of this route is the Storseisundet Bridge, which curves dramatically over the water and gives the impression that you’re driving straight into the sea. It’s an unforgettable sight that’s sure to leave you awestruck.

As you drive along this road, stop at one of the many viewpoints to fully appreciate all its beauty. Be prepared for sudden weather changes as well – it can go from sunny skies to foggy conditions in minutes here!

So watch your surroundings as you experience one of Europe’s most iconic road trips. But it’s not just about scenic views – plenty of outdoor activities and adventures are in store for Europe travel by car enthusiasts.

Take a hike at one of Norway’s national parks nearby or go fishing and kayaking in the fjords. You might even spot some seals or whales if you’re lucky!

If traveling during winter, snowmobiling across snow-covered trails with stunning mountain views is popular among tourists visiting Norway during winter months; however, be aware that conditions can be harsh and dangerous at times due to strong winds and heavy snowfall. All said and done, if breathtaking natural beauty coupled with thrilling adventures is what you seek on your next Europe travel by-car adventure, Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road should be on your bucket list!

5. Fairy Tale Castles and Vineyards in Germany’s Romantic Road

The Romantic Road is the quintessential Europe road trip, showcasing the very best of Bavaria. This route spans 350 kilometers from Würzburg to Füssen and passes through picturesque towns, scenic routes, and amazing landscapes. This is a must-visit location if you are looking for a fairytale experience on your Europe travel by car.

One of the highlights of this route is the Neuschwanstein Castle in Hohenschwangau. This castle has inspired many Disney movies, and its architecture will awaken you.

Another stunning stop on your Europe road trip is Würzburg’s Residenz Palace, which was built in the baroque style in 1744 by Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn. The palace has 360 rooms and beautiful gardens as perfect picnic spots.

Additionally, you’ll find vineyards lining the hillsides along this route which produce famous German wines such as Riesling or Müller-Thurgau. Take a break from driving to sample local wines at one of their vineyards, or visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where they offer an excellent wine-tasting experience and medieval charm.

Pro tip:  When visiting Germany’s Romantic Road during your Europe travel by car, drive through it slowly so you can take in all its beauty at a leisurely pace. You’ll also get to interact with locals who are always eager to share their stories about their town’s history and culture with visitors on road trips in Europe!

Lesser-Known European Treasures

Looking for some lesser-known European destinations to explore on your next Europe road trip? Look no further! Here are some hidden gems that you absolutely can’t miss.

1. Traversing the Transfagarasan Road in Romania

Traversing the Transfagarasan Road in Romania is a dream come true for many lovers of Europe who travel by car. This 56-mile-long road is perched high in the Carpathian Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The twisting and turning road was built as a military route in the 1970s, but today it’s considered one of the most beautiful roads in Europe.

The journey along Transfagarasan Road starts at either Cartisoara or Curtea de Arges, accessible from Romania’s capital, Bucharest . Once you’ve started driving, you’ll soon find yourself immersed in nature, with rolling hills on one side and steep drops on the other.

You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls cascading down mountainsides and alpine meadows brimming with wildflowers. There are various lookout points along the way where you can pause to take stunning photos or soak up the beauty around you.

Plenty of hiking trails will take you further into nature if you’re feeling adventurous. But be warned – this road requires good driving skills due to its winding nature and frequent hairpin turns!

2. Exploring Spain’s Wild North: Costa de la Muerte

Regarding European road trips, Spain may not be the first country to come to mind. However, exploring Spain’s wild north is worth considering if you want a less touristy and more authentic experience.

One of the hidden gems of this region is Costa de la Muerte, which translates to “Coast of Death.” Don’t let the name fool you, though – this coastal route boasts stunning views and historic towns that are well worth a visit. Located in the province of A Coruña in Galicia, Costa de la Muerte stretches about 200 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean.

Driving along this scenic route will take you through quaint fishing villages like Muxía and Fisterra (Finisterre in Spanish), which ancient Romans believed to be the end of the world. You can also explore charming towns like Camariñas, where traditional lace-making is still practiced today.

One of the most memorable sights on this Europe road trip is the impressive lighthouse at Cape Finisterre, which marks the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Standing atop its cliffs at sunset is an experience you will remember sometime soon!

3. Discovering Ireland’s Ancient East on the Boyne Valley Drive

The Boyne Valley Drive is a must-visit destination for anyone embarking on a road trip in Ireland. Follow the 225 km route, starting from Dublin and heading north to the rural hinterlands of Meath and Louth counties.

The drive will take you through breathtaking landscapes encapsulating Ireland’s rich heritage, including ancient ruins, prehistoric tombs, monasteries, and castles. One of the highlights of this beautiful drive is the Newgrange passage tomb which dates back to 3200 BC. This impressive site is older than both Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids!

As you approach Newgrange, you’ll be greeted by an imposing grass-covered mound that houses underground chambers. Book a guided tour well in advance during your visit, as it can get busy during the peak season.

Your guide will take you through the narrow passageway leading into the heart of Newgrange, where you’ll marvel at its impressive structure while learning about its fascinating history. The site also features an informative visitor center that details the intricacies of Neolithic life in Ireland.

Another road trip highlight is Trim Castle – one of Ireland’s most impressive medieval fortresses in County Meath. This imposing castle was built by Hugh de Lacy in 1173 and served as a strategic stronghold during numerous battles throughout Irish history.

Upon arrival at Trim Castle, stop by its visitor center and pick up an audio guide for context on its tumultuous past before embarking on your self-guided tour. You’ll stroll around its grounds while exploring its many towers, walls, and fortifications that offer stunning views across much of County Meath.

4. Unlocking the Secrets of Switzerland’s Klausen Pass

The Klausen Pass in Switzerland is a hidden gem that should be on every intrepid traveler’s Europe road trip itinerary. With its winding roads, stunning vistas, and awe-inspiring mountain views, the Klausen Pass is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of what Switzerland offers.

Driving along the Klausen Pass is like driving through an Alpine postcard. The road snakes through a mountainous landscape filled with towering peaks, lush green valleys, and sparkling lakes.

Along the way, you’ll pass charming Swiss villages straight out of a storybook. Some notable stops on this stretch include the town of Linthal and Lake Klöntal.

Be sure to take plenty of breaks to soak in the stunning scenery and snap some photos along the way! One of the highlights of driving along Klausen Pass is witnessing hairpin turns as you snake your way up and across mountains.

It’s not for faint-hearted drivers; however, it’s worth it for those who love an adventurous drive while on their Europe travel by car journey! The road surface is excellent but narrow at certain points where two cars can barely pass each other (and sometimes not at all).

There are plenty of lookout points where you can stop to catch your breath or have a picnic lunch while admiring the jaw-dropping views. This destination might be an off-the-beaten path, but it’s worth every effort to get there because it offers an unforgettable Europe road trip experience.

5. Savoring French Gastronomy and Nature in Alsace’s Wine Route

If you enjoy French cuisine and wine, a visit to Alsace’s Wine Route is a must-do during your Europe road trip. Located in eastern France, the region boasts more than 170 km of beautiful vineyards that produce some of the world’s most renowned white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.

The route begins in Marlenheim and winds through picturesque villages such as Obernai, Ribeauville, and Colmar. In addition to tasting delicious wines at local cellars and vineyards along the way, you can also indulge in plenty of traditional Alsatian dishes such as tarte flambée (a thin-crust pizza-like dish with onions, cream, and bacon), choucroute (a hearty plate of sauerkraut with various types of meat) and backoff (a slow-cooked casserole with lamb, beef, and potatoes).

The charming towns on the route are dotted with cozy restaurants serving up these local specialties alongside glasses of crisp white wines – perfect for taking a break from driving during your Europe travel by car adventure. Make sure to save some room for dessert, too – try kugelhopf (an almond cake) or Bretzel d’Alsace (soft pretzels coated in coarse salt).

Navigating Cross-Border Rules and Regulations

Navigating Cross-Border Rules and Regulations If you plan to take your car on a European road trip, it’s important to understand the cross-border rules and regulations of driving through multiple countries.

Understanding European rental car agreements and restrictions

Understanding European Rental Car Agreements and Restrictions When planning your Europe road trip, knowing what you’re getting into with rental car agreements and restrictions is essential.

First, choose a reputable rental car company that offers transparent agreements without hidden fees. Before signing, you should read the entire contract to understand the terms and conditions, including the rental period, pickup and drop-off locations, fuel policy, insurance coverage, and mileage limits.

Many rental car companies have age restrictions for drivers. In most European countries, the minimum age for renting a car is 21-25 years old.

Some companies may charge additional fees for younger drivers or require them to hold a valid driver’s license for at least two years. Also, if there are multiple drivers in your group, ensure that each person is listed in the agreement to avoid any issues if you get stopped by police or involved in an accident.

Additionally, be aware of any cross-border restrictions when traveling between countries during your Europe travel by car. Some rental car companies may not allow their vehicles to cross specific borders or charge extra fees.

It’s best to check beforehand to plan your route accordingly and avoid any surprises along the way. With adequate preparation and research into rental agreements and restrictions across Europe, travel by car can be an enjoyable, stress-free experience!

Cross-border fees and insurance coverage

Cross-border fees and insurance coverage are important for planning a Europe road trip. When renting a car, many companies impose restrictions on which countries the vehicle can be driven to and what fees apply when crossing borders. Some rental companies might not allow their vehicles to be driven to certain countries, while others will charge an additional fee for the privilege.

Before embarking on your road trip in Europe, it is crucial to read carefully through the rental agreement and consult with the rental company about any cross-border requirements. Another important consideration is ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage in case of an accident or damage to the vehicle.

Most rental companies offer basic insurance coverage as part of their package, but this may only cover some things. Additional protection can be purchased during booking or pickup time, including collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection (TP).

However, it is important to carefully read through all additional coverage options, as some items, like personal liability, may already be included in your regular travel insurance policies. You must also understand what documentation is required regarding proof of insurance when driving across borders in Europe.

Necessary driving permits, including the International Driving Permit (IDP)

When planning a Europe road trip, having the necessary driving permits for each country you plan to visit is essential. The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that validates your driver’s license and allows you to drive in over 150 countries worldwide legally.

In Europe, an IDP, along with your original driver’s license from your home country, is often required by law. It’s important to note that the IDP does not replace your driver’s license but rather complements it.

To obtain an IDP, you must contact the authorized organization in your home country that issues them. In most cases, this is the automobile association or club.

You must provide proof of identity and residency and two passport-sized photos. There is also usually a small fee for processing the application.

Once issued, an IDP typically lasts one year from the issue date. It’s important to check if an IDP is required in each country you plan to visit during your Europe travel by car adventure before departing on your road trip.

Some countries may also require additional permits or paperwork, such as proof of insurance or vehicle registration documents. It’s always better to be prepared beforehand than face unnecessary complications or fines on the road!

Adhering to local traffic laws and speed limits

Driving laws and speed limits vary depending on the country you visit in Europe, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules before starting your road trip. Most European countries have similar traffic laws, but there are some differences to be aware of.

For instance, driving on the right side of the road is standard in most European countries, except for the United Kingdom and Ireland, where drivers operate on the left. You must also pay attention to speed limits, which can change frequently in certain areas.

Lower speed limits are enforced in some cities, like Paris and Barcelona . Therefore it’s important to watch for any posted speed limit signs or check beforehand what a particular area’s speed limit is.

Also, many European roads have automated cameras installed to monitor drivers’ speeds and issue fines automatically if you exceed the limit. This means that staying within the legal driving norms while on your Europe road trip will help you avoid getting into trouble with local police or receiving hefty fines that could ruin your travel budget.

Tips for handling road tolls and transportation fees

Handling road tolls and transportation fees can be a hassle on a Europe road trip. However, you can save time and money with some preparation and knowledge.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the different fees you might encounter while driving in Europe. Firstly, it’s important to know that different countries have different systems of charging tolls.

For example, you might come across toll booths and electronic tags that automatically charge your account in France. In Italy , there are often tickets issued at the entrance that must be paid upon exit.

Do your research before entering a country to know what to expect and plan accordingly. Also, remember that some areas may require permits or special passes for certain vehicles, such as buses or campervans.

Another tip is to use technology to your advantage. Many GPS systems have features that alert drivers when they’re approaching a toll plaza or even provide alternate routes to avoid them altogether.

Furthermore, apps like TollGuru or Toll Collect (depending on the country) allow you to calculate your journey’s cost and plan accordingly. Keep track of your expenses by keeping receipts and noting any charges incurred during your drive.

This way, when it comes time to settle up at the end of your Europe travel by-car adventure, you’ll have all the information needed for accurate accounting. These tips make handling road tolls and transportation fees easy on your next European road trip!

So, why should you plan a Europe travel by car?

As we end our ultimate guide to Europe travel by car, it’s worth reflecting on the importance of good planning. Careful preparation can make all the difference, whether embarking on a weeks-long road trip or just a weekend getaway. Spending extra time mapping out your route, researching destinations and attractions, and ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation can help ensure smooth sailing (or driving!) throughout your trip.

Of course, one of the most important aspects of planning a successful Europe road trip is maintaining an open mind. While it’s wise to have some basic plans ahead of time – such as a rough itinerary and lodging reservations – it’s also important to remain flexible and adaptable.

After all, some of the most memorable experiences can happen when you least expect them! So while it’s okay to have a general idea of where you want to go and what you want to see while on your road trips in Europe, feel free to stray from your planned path if something piques your interest.

Who knows? You may discover hidden gems that are even more amazing than what was on your original itinerary!

Plan your trip to Europe: Monthly breakdown

• Europe in January
• Europe in February
• Europe in March
• Europe in April
• Europe in May
• Europe in June
• Europe in July
• Europe in August
• Europe in September
• Europe in October
• Europe in November
• Europe in December

Plan your trip to Europe by season

• Winter in Europe: Top 21 Winter Destinations in Europe
• Spring in Europe: Top 15 Spring Destinations in Europe
• Summer in Europe: Top 14 Best Summer Destinations in Europe
• Autumn in Europe: Top 15 Fall Destinations in Europe

Europe by Experience

• Northern Lights Holiday: Top 10 Destinations to Spot Aurora Borealis
• Where to See the Midnight Sun: Top 8 Places Where the Sun Never Sets
• 25 Beautiful Castles in Europe That Would Inspire Your Wanderlust
• 30 BEST Fairytale like Towns in Europe (That Will Tickle Your Wanderlust)
• Top 20 Cheapest Countries in Europe to Visit for Budget Travelers
• Top 10 BEST Destinations for New Year’s Eve in Europe
• Christmas in Europe: Top 15 MAGICAL Ideas for Christmas
• 26+ Best National Parks in Europe You Must Check Out!
• Top 25 Best European Foods You Must Try!
• Top 15 Best Road Trips in Europe
• 30 BEST Places to Visit in Europe
• 26 Most Romantic Destinations in Europe
• Top 10 Party Destinations in Europe to Experience

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time

There is absolutely nothing like traveling to Europe for the first time–and we want to help make your experience as magical as possible!

It has been about a decade since our very first trip to Europe, and I still remember it like it was yesterday.

The thrill of the plane touching down in Paris , the confusion of taking the RER B train into the city, and the absolute electricity that shot through my veins as we exited the train stop and I marveled at the real-life version of Saint-Germain-des-Prés unfolding before my eyes (I swear, actual church bells were going off)–I remember it all.

I remember the next trip, too, where we upped the stakes: instead of a week in Paris, we spent 2.5 weeks exploring Krakow ,  Budapest ,  Plitvice Lakes National Park ,  Zadar ,  Dublin , and the  Cliffs of Moher .

… and then we quit our jobs to travel the world , and we’ve only gotten more obsessed with traveling Europe since.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

In the decade since that first trip to Paris, we’ve thrown ourselves into exploring the world, traveling full-time for 4+ years, visiting 50+ countries (including most countries in Europe), and even living in Portugal along the way.

One of my absolute favorite parts of my job, though, is to help people–primarily Americans like myself–plan their first trip to Europe.

Because here’s the thing: neither my husband Jeremy nor I ever had a passport or left the USA until we were adults.

We taught ourselves how to travel Europe and the world at large from scratch, and I remember the fear we felt and the mistakes we made along the way almost as well as I remember the beauty of that first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

If you find yourself with a major case of European wanderlust and a dizzying array of questions about how to turn those travel dreams into your actual first trip to Europe, this checklist is for you.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to traveling to Europe for the first time!

Table of Contents

Ready to Plan Your First Europe Trip?

Our top 2 tips for visiting europe for the first time, planning your first trip to europe: your 13-step checklist, faq about traveling to europe for the first time.

Helping people plan trips is our passion and purpose here on Our Escape Clause.

Once you read this step-by-step checklist for planning your first trip to Europe, we’d love to help you continue to plan your travels in more detail!

We have around a dozen general Europe travel guides on our website, including everything from suggested Europe travel itineraries to where to find the most magical Christmas markets , plus literally hundreds of posts on specific European destinations!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this Europe travel guide, but if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular place, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site (or on the pop-out menu if you’re reading on your phone) to see what we’ve written.

You can also check out our destinations page to browse by country!

We have a lot to say when it comes to Europe travel tips ( here are 75 of our best ones ), but specifically for travelers visiting Europe for the first time, there are 2 pieces of advice we’d give above all others.

First, resist the urge to overcrowd your itinerary.

I go into this more below, but believe us, we absolutely relate: I still have to fight this urge with every trip we take!

However, moving around constantly is a surefire way to end up overwhelmed, exhausted, and not getting to appreciate all of the magnificent places you’re seeing.

Second, know that throwing down money and committing to finally taking the trip of your dreams is often the hardest part–once you board the plane, everything gets easier.

I vividly remember how nervous we were to book our first (and second, and third) trips abroad.

For 2 people who had never even had passports until they were adults, we had a lot to learn!

But at the same time–I’m so, so, so glad we took the plunge, and you will be too.

After all, millions of people travel to foreign countries each year, and there’s absolutely no reason that you can’t be among them.

You’ve got this!

Now onto the details…

Step 1: Get inspired and brainstorm where you want to go.

Without a doubt, the first step to planning a trip to Europe is brainstorming all of the places you want to visit!

If you’re anything like us, odds are high that the list is longer than what you could rationally accomplish in a decade, let alone on a single vacation, but it never hurts to dream!

Whether you want to road trip Tuscany , wander the streets of Paris , marvel at the Alhambra in Spain, hike on a glacier in Iceland, stroll along the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland , or something radically different, pay attention to what calls to you the most.

There are no wrong answers when deciding which destinations are most interesting to you!

Step 2: Check visa requirements for Europe.

While most readers of this blog post, such as Americans like us and other people from non-European, strong-passport countries like Canada and Australia, will likely not need a visa to take their dream trip to Europe, it’s always best to triple-check!

(And, in a post-2020 world, we all know more than ever that expectations can change quickly.)

As you research what you need to travel to Europe, you’ll likely come across many references to the Schengen Area .

These are the 26 European countries that share open borders with each other.

Americans and many others can visit these countries for up to 90 days out of any 180 without a visa.

In the future, the ETIAS system –essentially an e-visa procured by filling out paperwork online before traveling, which will cost a nominal 7 Euro–will come into effect for the Schengen Area.

ETIAS is currently slated to begin operating sometime in 2024, though the starting date has been pushed back several times.

Other countries–like the UK, Montenegro, and Romania, for example–are not part of this system, but if you come from a country with a strong passport, you likely won’t need a visa there either.

A few nearby places that might be on your radar, like Turkey , require an e-visa for Americans to enter.

Step 3: Shop for flights (and be as flexible as possible).

Once you have a list of your most-wanted travel destinations and have confirmed you’re clear to travel, it’s time to shop for your flights to Europe!

We recommend being as flexible as possible during this process, either with your travel dates, your destinations, or ideally, both.

Flight prices and routes can vary dramatically depending on where you’re coming from and where you’re going, which is one reason why we don’t recommend finalizing your Europe itinerary until you have your flights purchased (more on that below).

Ideally, you’ll want to start and end your first Europe trip in a major airport hub.

This doesn’t necessarily need to be the same hub, though!

While one-way tickets can be pricier than round-trip ones, if you’re flexible on your dates  and  destinations (so deciding which cities to start and end in partially based on price), you can usually find excellent deals.

This is exactly how we ended up flying into Krakow and out of Dublin during our first multi-country trip to Europe!

As far as airports go, for those of you coming from the USA (or anywhere in North America, really), you’ll want to potentially check ticket prices for London, Madrid , Dublin, Paris ,  Lisbon , Frankfurt,  Amsterdam , and  Milan .

That’s not an exhaustive list by any means, but there are often flight deals to and from these cities.

Step 4: Narrow down your itinerary for your first Europe trip.

Now that you’ve scored a great flight deal on the “bookends” of your trip, it’s time to fill in the rest of your itinerary for traveling Europe for the first time!

As we mentioned above, the biggest challenge here for most travelers is to not bite off more than they can chew and travel too fast.

Trust me, we understand the temptation–I still have to trim destinations from every. single. trip. that we plan, because my overwhelming desire to do it all fights with logic every step of the way.

I promise, though, you will have a much better trip if you slow it down.

Ideally, allow at least 2 full days (typically not including days you travel to or from the destination, though there are exceptions) to each “base” or city.

Staying in one place for 3 or 4 days is even better, and will give you time for a day trip or two.

We have several suggested Europe itineraries outlined here , and can highly recommend all of them!

However, there are truly infinite possibilities when it comes to structuring your first Europe trip.

When it comes to deciding exactly which of your dream destinations make the cut, we recommend letting geography be the tiebreaker.

For example, if you’re trying to decide whether to visit Amsterdam or Budapest on a trip where you fly into Paris, Amsterdam is the clear winner.

If you fly into Vienna instead of Paris, though… Budapest it is!

Other factors to keep in mind when narrowing down your itinerary include seasonality/weather and your budget.

Using Google Flights and searching the general term “Europe” in the “Where To?” box can be a great way to find unexpected flight deals!

(Don’t forget to play around with the map, zooming in and out on different regions–you might be surprised at what deals you find).

Step 5: Finalize your budget for traveling to Europe for the first time.

Now that you know exactly when your trip to Europe is happening and where you are going, it’s time to finalize your travel budget!

We recommend taking the total amount you hope to spend in Europe, subtracting any splurges or major expenses you know are coming (a pricey tour, some clothes shopping, etc.), and then dividing the remaining amount by the number of days you’ll be traveling in Europe.

Voila–you have your daily Europe travel budget!

This is the number you should try to stay under each day when you add up the amount you spend on food, activities, lodging, and intra-city transportation.

We have used this simple strategy to budget our trips for years and detail it more thoroughly in our travel budgeting guide .

Step 6: Book some of your accommodation.

Once you have your plane tickets, a plan for where you’re going, and a budget set, it’s time to decide where to sleep!

We offer specific hotel suggestions in the vast majority of our destination-specific travel guides, but generally speaking, you’ll want to look for something well-reviewed (we aim for an 8.0 rating or better on Booking.com ) in a central location.

Also, keep an eye out for air conditioning and/or heating as the weather demands–those things are not a guarantee in all areas!

A very general rule to keep in mind when booking hotels?

The smaller the destination, the earlier you will want to book.

Somewhere like Cinque Terre simply doesn’t have as much lodging available as it does people who want to visit, while places like Paris are big enough to absorb their travelers in spite of their popularity.

As a result, tiny, popular places are where we tend to book our accommodation the earliest.

Of course, if you’re headed somewhere for a big event or festival–say Oktoberfest in Munich or Christmas markets in Salzburg –you’ll want to book ASAP.

We find virtually all of our accommodation (short-term apartment rentals included) via Booking.com these days.

If we get stuck, we may occasionally check Airbnb too, but as the years have gone by, prices and guest expectations have both increased dramatically, so we find ourselves using it much less than we once did.

Step 7: Figure out your inter-city (or country) transportation.

When it comes to traveling between each of your destinations during your vacation in Europe, you might find that you come up with quite a mix of methods!

Trains are our favorite way to travel in Europe–they’re simple, comfortable, safe, and extremely convenient for visiting most major cities (there are caveats to this, in places like the Balkans).

We would only recommend renting a car if you’re visiting the countryside somewhere.

If your itinerary is a more typical first-timer’s route and sticks to major cities–something like London-Paris-Amsterdam–then a car is absolutely unnecessary.

Buses are our least favorite method, as they tend to be slow and uncomfortable, but are undoubtedly the cheapest.

Flights are by far and away the best option for extreme distances, but are cumbersome and tend to eat up an entire day.

And, finally: if you’re visiting Europe in the summer , don’t forget about ferries!

Step 8: Book some of your bucket-list travel experiences in Europe.

While simply existing in a gorgeous new destination is a bucket-list travel experience in and of itself, booking some unique tours and attractions can help make your trip even more memorable!

From touring the Colosseum at night to eating our way through Athens on an incredible food tour to snorkeling between 2 tectonic plates in Iceland, we have never been sorry to splurge on a memorable experience abroad.

(And yes, we paid our way on each of those tours–we don’t accept sponsored trips or tell anyone that we’re bloggers while there.)

Booking your experiences in advance goes beyond the small group tours, though: skip-the-line tickets for major attractions like the Arc de Triomphe , Vatican Museums , and Sagrada Familia are so beneficial that I cannot sing their praises enough.

We never show up to a major attraction without booking tickets in advance these days (and it’s even more important in a post-2020 world).

We book our skip-the-line tickets and many of our tours through Get Your Guide .

For bespoke, small-group tours that go above and beyond the “normal” experience, we love Take Walks .

Step 9: Learn a little bit of the local language(s).

If you’re staying firmly on the tourist trail on your trip to Europe, you won’t necessarily  need  to speak any of the local language(s) to travel there.

… But you will almost certainly encounter some monolingual Europeans, and either way, it will definitely enhance your experience in the country to know a tiny bit of their language.

Simple phrases like hello, goodbye, please, thank you, you’re welcome, do you speak English, and the numbers 1-10 can go a long way!

If you’d like to go a bit further, learning to order in restaurants and read menus is both helpful and efficient.

In addition to being fun and practical to learn, it’s one of the conversations that you’re likely to have repeatedly enough during your travels that the phrases will potentially stick with you until long after your trip is over.

Step 10: Make a packing list (and shop!).

Packing can often be one of the most unexpectedly stressful parts of getting ready for a trip, and even more so for your very first European vacation!

We have full suggested packing lists for Europe in spring , summer , winter , and fall , which go into far more detail than I have room for here.

Our absolute biggest advice for packing for Europe, though, is not to stress too much about it: just about anything you could possibly forget will be available there too!

For now, here are a few essentials that we absolutely recommend adding to your list:

Travel Adaptors for Europe — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Be sure to check the requirements for any particular country that you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Portable USB Charger — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing: add a portable charger to your packing list for Europe.

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick?

I personally learned this lesson the hard way on our very first trip to Europe, and have never hopped continents without my own supply since.

Step 11: Purchase travel insurance.

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before jetting off to Europe!

While Europe is generally a perfectly safe place to travel, the reality is that traveling in general opens you up to vulnerabilities that you simply don’t have at home.

If you miss a plane or train, have your luggage get lost, get pickpocketed, or worse, get injured, you’ll be glad that you have insurance.

Given how inexpensive travel insurance is when purchased in advance (especially as compared to the price of plane tickets!), it’s well worth the investment.

Consider checking inclusions and prices with  Safety Wing  for your first trip to Europe.

Step 12: Plan for your arrival.

The penultimate step of planning a trip to Europe is as simple as it is important: make an arrival plan.

When you arrive, you’re undoubtedly going to be exhausted, overwhelmed, and probably a bit jetlagged, too!

No matter how many times we step foot in a new country, it never stops being a tiny bit stressful, simply because there are a lot of variables at play in the first few hours of arriving somewhere new.

Make life easier on yourself by thinking ahead!

When learning how to travel to Europe, set aside time to figure out your exact steps for what to do after the plane lands.

That means knowing exactly how far away your hotel is, how you’ll get there from the airport (train, bus, rental car, taxi?).

If you’ll be traveling by taxi, look up what a reasonable price is at your destination and/or if there’s a set fare from the airport to the city center (in major cities, there often is).

Though it’s not strictly necessary, if you’d like to make arriving in Europe for the first time extra easy on yourself, consider treating yourself to an airport transfer when you arrive (like tours, you can often book these on Get Your Guide ).

Options like this one in Rome and this one in Paris can be a great way to make sure your very first Europe trip starts off on the right foot.

Step 13: Have an amazing first trip to Europe!

Once you’ve done the planning… then it’s time for the fun part!

Enjoy every step of your first trip to Europe, from the confusing parts to the magical ones–and yes, both will probably end up with a prominent place in your memories.

If you’re anything like us, the odds are high that your first experience of traveling in Europe won’t be your last.

Once you start… it’s hard to stop.

Every day, I wake up to emails from readers planning a trip to Europe.

I love answering emails (and yes, I will probably answer yours!), but there are definitely some frequently asked questions that come up often enough that they deserve a blanket response here.

These are some of the most common FAQs we see about traveling in Europe!

What’s the easiest way to get Euros and other currency?

The answer to this question has a significant caveat: be sure to check foreign transaction fees and ATM fees with your bank before leaving and let your financial institutions know that you’ll be abroad.

However, generally speaking, by far the easiest way to acquire a new currency when traveling in Europe is to simply withdraw money from the ATM when you arrive.

It has been years since we’ve done anything else, anywhere in the world!

When you’re at the ATM, be sure to opt to have the transaction go through in the currency you’re receiving (ie, Euros), not your home currency (ie, USD).

Your bank’s conversion rate will undoubtedly be better than the ATM’s!

Also, avoid Euronet-branded ATMs like the plague: they’re infamous for their extremely high fees.

Instead, look for an ATM operated by a local bank.

How should I get from city to city in Europe?

This depends entirely on your itinerary, but here’s a very short, very general answer.

Trains are the most comfortable, and often the most expensive.

Buses are the least comfortable, frequently take the longest, and are generally the cheapest.

Rental cars have their place–there are some truly phenomenal road trips in Europe –but rarely make sense for first-time travelers, who tend to bounce between major cities that are well-connected by rail.

Flights are the most cumbersome, as they burn time dealing with things like security and getting to and from airports located outside of city centers, and simply aren’t comfortable.

However, flights can be surprisingly affordable compared to trains and are obviously the fastest option for covering very long distances.

When traveling Europe for the first time, we recommend traveling by train wherever it makes sense, and filling in the other options as necessary ( here’s our full guide to train travel in Europe ).

Our first multi-country trip to Europe included an overnight train, a daytime train, 2 rental cars, and a flight–in other words, you can definitely mix and match!

How can I use my phone in Europe?

If your phone is unlocked, the cheapest and easiest way to use your phone in Europe is to buy a local SIM card.

You can either do that on the ground once you land (there’s almost always a selection of helpful kiosks near the airport exit) or if you’d prefer not to worry about it once you arrive, you can buy one online before you go or even try out an eSIM card.

If your phone is not unlocked, or you just hate the idea of changing your SIM card, check with your carrier and see what they offer as far as international plans go.

Will I need an adaptor for my electronics?

Most likely, yes!

Luckily, adaptors are cheap to buy and easy to carry–we recommend picking these up before you go.

Keep in mind that the UK and a few other countries ( Ireland ,  Malta ) use a separate plug from the bulk of the continent.

If you’re heading to a place that uses UK plugs, you’ll want these adaptors as well.

Do I need to be worried about pickpockets?

I wouldn’t go so far as the use the word “worried”, but aware, yes.

Pickpockets are a problem around the world in places where there are crowds, and that includes major European cities.

Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and Naples are examples of places that are particularly prone to pickpockets.

Watch your belongings carefully, especially near particularly crowded tourist attractions and in and around transportation hubs like train stations, and you will most likely be fine.

Very generally speaking, the closer to a world-famous landmark you are, the higher the risk of getting pickpocketed is in that place.

We have never been pickpocketed, but it does happen, even to experienced travelers.

We don’t choose to use a money belt anymore, and pickpockets certainly know about them, but if you would like another layer of protection, they’re an option (we used this one when we first started traveling).

An anti-theft day bag that can be locked and/or attached to a chair can help too, and we carry one everywhere ( we love this one ).

How severe is the language barrier?

It varies significantly, of course, but generally, it’s not nearly as difficult as first-time visitors to Europe worry before they arrive (ourselves included).

We recommend learning basic phrases in the language of the countries that you are planning to visit during your first European vacation, but this is usually more for good manners than out of necessity.

While you can absolutely find monolingual Europeans in virtually any country, especially in smaller cities and towns, the people employed in customer service roles and in the tourism industry in major cities–in other words, where most or all of your trip will likely take place–generally speak some English.

Can I drink the tap water in Europe?

Usually, yes!

We drink out of the tap just about anywhere in Europe.

In rare cases where the water is not safe to drink (usually in remote areas of southern and eastern Europe, or in very old buildings with iffy pipes), there will generally be large and obvious signs stating so.

If you’re worried about it, though, you can always ask your hotel concierge or host about it!

How far in advance should I book my trip?

For plane tickets, we recommend booking your trip as soon as you can commit to dates!

Not only will this allow you to have more time to plan and budget with a bit of structure, but it will also spread out your costs a bit more.

During peak seasons, like coastal locations in the summer or popular central European cities during the Christmas markets, you’ll want to book your hotels as far in advance as you can commit to them as well.

What’s your favorite country in Europe?

We get asked this all the time, and the answer is: we couldn’t possibly choose!

We definitely have a very special love for Italy –we’ve spent more time there than any other country outside the USA, traveled the country from north to south, know the travel scene there very intimately, and will continue to visit extensively for the rest of our lives.

And no, we haven’t discounted the possibility of living there one day, either!

However, simply naming Italy as our favorite would discount so much.

Like, for example, how much we adore hiking amongst the Alps in Switzerland, or waking up in picturesque bed and breakfasts in Ireland .

It skips over the joy of wandering through the art museums of Paris , admiring the rocky coastline of the western Algarve in Portugal, and jumping into the Adriatic Sea in Croatia .

Simply naming one favorite doesn’t leave room for sharing just how incredible it is to marvel at Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, or devour Greek salads on Santorini … or so much more than I could include in this list.

And really, the answer to the question behind the question is this: as long as it’s somewhere that you’re desperate to visit, and you plan your trip well, it doesn’t really matter where you decide to go on your first trip to Europe.

Traveling to Europe for the first time is a magnificent and potentially (in our case, definitely) life-altering experience, and there are no wrong answers.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time”

Your blog is SO informative! Planning my first ever trip to Europe (Scotland in particular) and all the info you have is super helpful! 🙂

So glad to help, and I hope you have a fantastic trip to Scotland!

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Taking your car abroad: tips for driving in Europe

Taking your car on holiday gives you the added freedom to get around, but you’ll need to do some preparation beforehand to ensure your road trip goes smoothly....

Driving your car through mainland Europe gives you the opportunity to really explore the countries you pass through. It also means you won’t have to spend hours in crowded airports and ensures you’ll be able to get around once you get to your destination.

However, there’s a lot to think about before you set off. In addition to getting your car serviced and its tyres, wipers and fluids checked before you go, you’ll need to think about a number of other areas. Does your car insurance and breakdown policy cover you outside of the UK? Do you need to modify your car and do you need to stock up on specific equipment to take with you so you stay legal? And do you have the money to cover fuel and toll-road charges?

Follow our top tips to make your driving trip a journey to remember for all the right reasons.

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Advice for Americans Taking Their Car To Europe

Should you ship your own car or use a rental?

Tips to Help You Plan that European Trip

You are planning a road trip to Europe from the USA and you're not sure whether shipping your own car to the other side of the Atlantic is a good idea. When you travel from the USA to Europe, European car rental is one way to get around - but some people may prefer to have their own car, especially if they are planning on spending an extended period of time there. When it comes to shipping a car from the USA to Europe, there is a lot of prep work to be done beyond just finding a decent car-shipping company. Considering how much of a hassle this can be, and the fact that a rental car in Europe is cheap enough, the simpler option seems clear. However, it is always important to weigh your options when you have the freedom to do so.

Doing a Road Trip to Europe: Take Your Own Car or Rent?

So, the first thing you have to do is to decide whether you are going to be arranging for your own car's transport to Europe or whether you are going to opt for European car rental instead. Let's look at some of the pros and cons of each of the options.

If you want to ship your car for your driving vacation in Europe, keep these in mind:

Renting a car in Europe has its own set of pros and cons:

Shipping Your Car from the USA to Europe

You've decided to take your own car and since you can't drive to Europe from the USA, your car has to go by ship, so here's a basic checklist of things to keep in mind:

• How much would it cost me to ship my car from the US to Europe? For your car to travel by ship to Europe from the USA's east coast, the price may be anything from around $800 to more than $4,000 one way, depending on the size of the container. For example, it could be a 20-foot or 40-foot container, and you may have to end up sharing with someone else. The vehicle's dimensions and weight will also affect the price. Other factors influencing the cost include whether you're using a roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) vessel, which is cheaper than container shipping and requires no container handling, and which shipping company you use. Shipping a car from Europe to the USA again for the return leg won't necessarily double the costs if you can get a good deal, so remember to book it as a package.
• Car preparation. This is very similar to preparing your car for any type of holiday , but with a few extra caveats. Make sure that your car has been serviced and that all pending repairs have been completed to ensure that it is reliable. Clean it, remove all personal items, and note all existing dents, scratches, and damage, taking photos of them, with a date stamp enabled on your photos. Check the health of the battery and the pressure of the tires. Strip all removable accessories such as roof racks. Your fuel tank should be one-quarter full at most.
• Documentation. You require your car's original certificate of ownership and certificate of origin (the latter if it was bought new), a notarized bill of sale, and a shipper export declaration form. Your international shipper will have all the details.
• Extra key. You have to give your shipper an extra set of car keys, so ensure you have a set and that any necessary remote batteries are fresh.
• Insurance. Contact your vehicle insurer for overseas all-risk, total-loss, and shipping insurance. If your provider does not offer this, you have to buy international shipping insurance, which will probably cost around two percent of the value of your vehicle.

Road Trip to Europe from the USA - In a Rental Car

By comparison, a rental car is a cheap and easy option. Stipulate clearly that you want an automatic vehicle, as manual transmissions are commonplace in Europe. Compare cars, making sure that you know how much luggage capacity you require and whether your rental will be big enough, especially concerning cars only available in Europe and not in the US. There are a lot more small cars in Europe and no full-size trucks such as the Ford F-150 , only mid-size ones, such as the Ford Ranger .

Crossover SUVs such as a Toyota RAV4 are a versatile choice, as they're ubiquitous all over the world and more practical than a sedan. Europe is also home to the best station wagons since the body type is still popular there, and they provide lots of space and comfort. Try to avoid driving long distances non-stop, but if you must, follow these tips to stay alert , especially if you're traveling alone .

Conclusion - Parting Thoughts on Traveling Europe By Car

A tour from the USA to travel Europe by car is an unforgettable experience and you should put aside several weeks to get the most out of it. If you're taking your own car, ensure that you are aware of the European rules of the road and local traffic signs, observe social-distancing protocols, avoid very crowded places, and know how to drive a left-hand-drive vehicle on the right-hand side of the road in the UK if you have to. Your car must be compliant in all European emission zones, too. Have a look at our detailed checklist for a European road trip .

Remember that Europe uses the metric system, so they have kilometers and not miles. Make sure you know what speed to drive if you're using your own car with a miles-per-hour speedometer. With the right preparation - and if you follow all our useful tips - your European trip will be one of your all-time travel memories.

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What to Know About COVID-19 Rules and Travel to Europe This Fall

Include lots of flexibility and patience with your proof of vaccination.

| Many Americans have been hoping that this fall and winter would see the pandemic fading and travel to Europe fully open again. But the  delta variant has thrown a wrench in the works, with new travel restrictions and cautions in place across the continent — and more changes are inevitable. Now that the European Union has removed the United States from its list of safe countries, people with European travel plans are really wondering what to do.

While the EU downgrade of the U.S. sounded dire, it’s still up to each European country to decide how to manage travel from the United States. Depending on your target destination, your travel plans may not have to change — for the moment.

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So far, only Sweden and Bulgaria have outright banned all U.S. tourists, but other countries, including the Netherlands, have introduced mandatory quarantines even for vaccinated U.S. travelers.

On the flip side, Portugal announced it “will remain open to travelers from the United States despite the announcement of the EU,” welcoming visitors who bring proof of a negative COVID-19 test. The most common response from popular destinations like England, Italy, Iceland and Germany has been to allow entry only to U.S. travelers who are vaccinated and bring a recent negative COVID test while requiring quarantine for those who don’t.

Given that the COVID situation will continue to change, as will the requirements for travel, here are a few tips about what you should know about travel to Europe in the months ahead, and how you can better plan for it.

1. Europe's COVID situation — and rules for visitors — will continue to change

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Based on the recent global surge of COVID cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC)  pandemic-related guidelines on the safety of given countries are changing on a sometimes weekly basis, even to extremes. For example, the CDC ranked Iceland as low risk (Level 1) in late July, but by mid-August had elevated it to the highest risk level (Level 4, meaning “avoid travel”). What seems safe now may be considered risky by the time your trip begins.

Also keep in mind that given the continued high rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., the European countries could at any time ban or further restrict inbound U.S. travelers. For example, on Sept. 4, Denmark announced it is refusing entry to unvaccinated visitors from the U.S. (with only a few exceptions).  

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What you can do: Book travel with flexibility in mind. Consider backup plans that will allow you to change your target country if restrictions increase. Search for plane tickets without change fees, research cancellation policies at hotels, and plan itineraries with options to spend more time outdoors in case indoor attractions are limited. Being vaccinated will in almost all cases improve your ability to travel.

2. You'll face a patchwork of rules and regulations across Europe

Requirements for visitors for entry and travel can be different depending on an individual country, region within a country, airline, hotel or public space. It’s confusing even for the experts. Amrei Gold, a representative with the German National Tourist Office, says of her country: “Because each of our 16 federated states can do their own rules, it is sometimes a challenge even for us to track the latest situation.”

Economic advisory firm Global Data has reported that more than half of potential travelers surveyed are being deterred from travel due to “fragmented rules and a lack of mutual agreements (between countries). Travelers have been left confused over how to provide their vaccination status with varying rules across destinations … potentially suppressing international demand.”

What you can do:  Carefully research the latest requirements from the destination, as well as your airline, tour company and lodging (see links to individual countries’ websites below). Bring multiple sets of digital and hard copy documentation of your vaccination status and testing results. Some destinations require online entry of this information before arrival. France recently began requiring a Health Pass certifying vaccination or a negative coronavirus test for entry to indoor spaces, with a system for foreign tourists. European tour operator Intrepid Travel recently began requiring all their guests (and tour guides) to be fully vaccinated. Other countries, cities or attractions may follow suit with similar programs.

And given the variety of regulations, consider limiting the geographic scope of your trip. This will make planning and travel easier, as 2021 is probably not the time for an 8-countries-in-7-days Grand Tour. Explore “slow travel” vacation options based at a single location, like walking and biking day trips from a countryside home rental. “I would definitely limit travel to one or two countries at the most,” says Brigitte Armand, president of the Eurobound destination management company, “in case a country decides to impose new travel restrictions all of a sudden.”

3. Consider travel Insurance — but read the fine print

The latest from top european destinations.

The CDC's current COVID-19 risk assessments (with links to destination websites listing current rules) include:

Level 4  (very high risk; avoid travel): Britain , France , Greece , Iceland , Ireland

Level 3  (high risk; make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel): Italy , Croatia ,  Germany

Level 2 (moderate risk; make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel): Czech Republic

Level 1 (low risk, make sure you are fully vaccinated): Slovakia , Hungary , Poland

Be sure to review the latest information before and even during travel.

Travel insurance  can protect against trip cancellation, provide medical relief and cover potentially exorbitant costs in case you contract COVID-19 during your trip. But policies will only cover exactly what is mentioned in the fine print.

What you can do: Read carefully. “Go over details, like what qualifies as a covered event, before purchasing,” says Chris Carnicelli, CEO of Generali Global Assistance. “It’s important to remember that coverage related to the pandemic is only available if you, a traveling companion or family member get sick from COVID-19 or if you buy a Cancel for Any Reason plan.”

Lisa Cheng, spokesperson for World Nomads travel insurance, says to make sure you have “sufficient medical coverage under your chosen policy as well as coverage for emergency evacuation. Medical bills are going to be the biggest cost to you if you contract one of the variants when traveling.”

4. Costs may be high and availability low in Europe this fall

Europe’s recent reopening to U.S. travelers has led to a flood of eager tourists in prime tourist destinations in countries like France, Italy , Greece and Iceland. This increase in demand combined with COVID-related closures and lack of staffing means you may find limited availability and skyrocketing prices for lodging, transport and attractions in these popular spots.

What you can do: Consider lesser-trafficked destinations and visiting off-season, during non-holiday periods. Planning ahead can lock in savings and ensure access to museums and other popular attractions where capacity and hours may be restricted and reservations required. Be aware of cancellation costs in case plans change. The good news is that many hotels and ground operators have relaxed cancellation rules and introduced more flexible terms.

Bill Fink is an award-winning travel writer who has covered cultural travel for  Lonely Planet ,  Frommer’ s, the  San Francisco Chronicle  and many other outlets.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad

Travelling to the EU and Schengen area

You do not need a visa for short trips to the EU or countries in the Schengen area if both of the following apply:

• you’re staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period
• you’re visiting as a tourist or for certain other reasons

Other reasons include:

• studying a short course
• getting medical treatment
• travelling for business for your UK employer, for example to attend a business meeting or conference
• journalism or other media activities

Check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting to find out what you can and cannot do during your stay.

These rules do not apply to travelling and working in Ireland .

Travelling to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period

You can travel to more than one country in a 180-day period. How long you can stay in each country depends on whether or not it’s in the Schengen area.

The countries in the Schengen area are:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.

To work out if your stay is within the 90 day limit, use the following steps.

Check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip.

Count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period.

Add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period (you can use the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country).

Work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip. Add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3.

Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.

Travelling to EU countries that are not in the Schengen area

Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania are not in the Schengen area. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in each of these countries without a visa.

Any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in these countries.

When you may need a visa

​​You may need a visa or permit if you want to either:

• stay for more than 90 days

If you’re travelling for work, check the rules for the country you’re visiting .

If you’re travelling for another reason or staying longer than 90 days, check the entry requirements for the country you’re visiting .

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Eurotunnel - Driving "Le Shuttle" Through the Channel Tunnel

The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union (a move known as "Brexit") formally occurred on January 31, 2020. Following that departure is a transition period lasting until December 31, 2020, during which the U.K. and E.U. will negotiate the terms of their future relationship. This article has been updated as of the January 31st withdrawal, and you can find up-to-date information about details of the transition on the U.K.'s government website .

One of the fastest - and cheapest - ways to cross the English Channel is via Eurotunnel. Whether you cross through Eurotunnel for a short excursion or as one leg of a European touring vacation, you just drive aboard Le Shuttle , and, hey presto, 35 minutes later you're in another country.

First Let's Get a Few Things Straight

• You don't actually drive through the Channel Tunnel. You sit comfortably in your own car (or in a minibus if you're a cyclist) while you are carried through the tunnel on a special train, the Car Transport.
• Nobody really calls the the tunnel the "chunnel" anymore. It is called the Channel Tunnel or  Le Shuttle  for going by car or Eurostar for the high-speed, passenger-only service.

What is a Trip Through Eurotunnel Like?

First off, if you're not the greatest traveler when it comes to long tunnels, you have nothing to worry about. Crossing the channel on the car transporter has to be the easiest,quickest and most comfortable way to do it ever.

Boarding is a snap. We showed up early for our train and actually got on an earlier departure. Driving on Le Shuttle , the Eurotunnel Car Transporter, was a bit like driving into a garage.

The inside was painted a sunny yellow and the lights stayed brightly lit throughout the journey. So bright, in fact that, while we chatted happily, the dog snoring, oblivious, in the back seat, we raced across the French countryside for at least five minutes before we noticed that the carriage windows had turned from tunnel black to sky blue and we'd actually gone all the way through.

Le Shuttle Is for Cyclists Too

Each Eurotunnel Shuttle can carry six cyclists. The bicycles are carried on a specially adapted trailer and the cyclists travel in a minibus. To book a bicycle crossing, telephone the sales support department, weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 5:30p.m. on  44 (0)1303 282201 . Cycle crossings must be booked 48 hours in advance.  If you are traveling with a larger group, ring the sales support department on the same number to discuss arrangements. 

Cycles on a roof rack  - Some carriages on the Shuttle are double-deckers and some are single. If you are carrying bicycles on the roof of a car that make the car more than 1.85 meters tall (about 5.15 feet), tell the agent when you book your travel so that you can be assigned to an appropriate carriage.

Taking Your Dog

The tunnel is the most comfortable and humane way to travel across the English Channel with a pet. Your animal stays with you the whole way. If you are coming and going from the UK with a dog or cat though, the animal must be proven rabies free, microchipped and registered for the UK Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) , which takes some advanced planning.

Checking-in

Arrive at least half an hour before your departure (and not more than two hours) to allow time to check in, get into the boarding lanes and go through British and French security and frontier controls. In addition to passports and visas (if required) for all passengers, you'll also need registration documents and proof of insurance for your car. If you are traveling with a pet, you need to bring the required PETS paperwork and allow some extra time for your animal's passport and microchip to be checked.

Do You Have to Book in Advance?

You may be able to get aboard the next available shuttle, paying in pounds, euros or by credit card. But it's more expensive than booking in advance and you aren't guaranteed a place. During busy times of day or at the start of European school vacations, you could end up waiting quite some time to board a shuttle.

But you can still be almost spontaneous. Shuttles through Eurotunnel can usually be booked as little as a day in advance.

Can You Accidentally End Up on the Wrong Side of the Road?

Not a chance. Yes they drive on the right in France and on the left in the UK but those clever engineers who designed and built this wonder of the world thought of everything - including how stupid some of us drivers might be.

Roads are engineered to guide you to the correct lane both getting in and out of Eurotunnel. By the time you have gone through British and French passport control and customs and are ready to leave the private roads on the Eurotunnel sites, you've adjusted to the correct side of the road for the country you are in. 

Cheap Enough for Day Trips

Eurotunnel is priced to encourage day-trippers and short visits - and it only takes 35 minutes. If you're renting a self-catering cottage in Kent, you can hop across to stock up on cheaper wine and beer, cheaper cigarettes if you smoke, plus lovely French cheeses and groceries to stock your cupboards. Touring in the south of England? Pop across the channel for lunch, a visit to Northern France and a change of scene. The Pas de Calais region, near the tunnel exit in Coquelles, has lovely beach resorts, Flemish-influenced villages and great beer. There are also some wonderful restaurants. Try le Grand Bleu near the ferry port in Calais or the restaurants in the pretty town of Montreuil-sur-Mer . And if you are coming over from France, there's plenty to do within easy reach of the tunnel's Folkestone terminus.

Meals on the Way

Thirty-five minutes is a pretty short trip but if you arrive early, have to queue to board or have a long drive once you're through the tunnel, you could get hungry.

I find the shopping and catering at Eurotunnel facilities on a par with airport duty free - pretty conventional, over priced and not very nice. And once you've entered the Eurotunnel site, you can't really leave without repeating all the frontier security checks.

So allow some time to visit Calais first. See Rodin's original bronze of the Burghers of Calais and learn their heroic story, shop the Calais hypermarkets for wine and bargains, then pick up one last French picnic and head for the tunnel at Coquelles.

Essential Information:

• Where: The tunnel joins Folkestone in Kent with Coquelles, outside Calais. It has its own motorway exits, leading straight to check-in at both ends.
• from France take junction 42 off the A16 motorway
• from the UK take junction 11A off the M20.
• Book: online at the Eurotunnel website or by phoning:
• from the UK -  08443 35 35 35
• from outside Europe - +44 08443 35 35 35
• from France - +33 (0) 810 63 03 04
• Schedule:  Up to four departures per hour (from both directions) in bookable 2-hour windows, round the clock.
• Fares: One way fares start at £85. But you'd be smarter booking a round trip. Day trips and overnight stays start at £30 each way and short stays of up to five days start at £66 each way. The fare is per car (prices as of 2019). Motorcycle fares start at £15 and bicycles cost £20 each way.

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Should you bring your car seat to Europe?

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This article about traveling with car seats in Europe is written by certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Melissa Conn and may contain affiliate links.

One question we often get from parents planning a family trip to Europe is what to do about car seats. Should they bring a travel car seat from home? Should they rent a car seat ? Should they rely on public transportation?

There’s a lot to consider and some will depend on the ages of your kids and your detailed Europe itinerary. Read on for the important details you need to know as you make your decision!

Read more: Important info for traveling with car seats

What are car seat rules in Europe?

Like many regions, Europe maintains a unique set of standards and testing for car seats to be sold and used there. But it gets a little involved, as some countries layer their own rules on top of the minimum car seat rules set by the European Commission in ECE R129 (2013) and later augmented by UN R129. There are also still older ECE R44/04 seats around, which are subject to less stringent limits. In some cases, rules can even vary based on the specifics of your drive within a country!

Here are some basic Europe car seat rules you need to know before you start considering whether to bring your travel car seat or rent a car seat:

-Babies in newer European car seats must rear-face until 15 months . In Sweden and Norway it is a common for toddlers to rear-face until at least 3-4 years old. Older European car seats only require rear facing until as little as 22 lbs, even if a child hasn’t reached her first birthday.

-Toddlers are required to ride in a forward-facing car seat, but the specifics vary by country; many European countries allow children to use a booster seat beginning as young as 3 years old.

-Older kids must ride in a forward-facing car seat or booster seat in Europe until they are at least the following heights: *135 cm (53″): UK, France, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Austraia, Portugal, Hungary, Sweden, Denmark *150 cm (59″): Germany, Italy, Poland, Czech Republic, Switzerland

-Car seats are not usually required in taxis , but there are exceptions in places like Germany and Spain where they may be required at least for some trips.

In addition to those car seat regulations for Europe, there are a few more details you should keep in mind:

-In all cases, you have to use your car seat within the manufacturer’s specifications (for example, if a booster seat is rated for 4+ you can’t use it even if local law only requires 3+)

– Car seat requirements in Europe prohibit chest clips Newer R129 car seat specifications no longer prohibit chest clips

-Only high-back booster seats will be permitted going forward for children under 125 cm (49″) and 22 kg (48lbs)

-European car seats recently started using top tethers, so older cars may not have them (and at least one popular travel car seat requires a top tether at all times)

-Car seats can be installed with either a seatbelt or ISOFIX (compatible with LATCH), but not all cars have locking seatbelts and most don’t have LATCH in middle seats

Want to know all my best secrets? Click here to learn how to travel with your car seat like a pro!

First up: your American car seat will physically work in Europe. You’ll be able to install it without issue (though you may need a seatbelt locking clip ). We’ve done it for the last seven years without issue.

The bigger question is should you bring a car seat to Europe or rent one there (or rely on public transportation if staying in the big cities). There’s a lot to consider!

Under European Commission law you can only use an EU or UN certified car seat while in the region. There are no car seats that are certified world-wide.

Clear cut, right? Except that there are plenty of risks that come with renting a car seat . In Europe one big issue if you have a toddler is that rear-facing beyond 15-18 months isn’t common practice or required by EU car seat laws, even though it’s much safer than forward-facing. If you rent a car seat for a 2 year old, you might be given one that only faces forward.

If you rent a car seat for a 3 year old, you could be given a booster seat ! There’s no way our kids were physically developed or mature enough at 3 years old to sit in a booster seat. They’d need to stay fully upright even through jetlag-induced naps and resist the temptation to reach for a fallen toy. Even if you’re willing to look past their underdeveloped spines and hip bones, there aren’t many 3 year olds with that level of self-control.

European car seats harness and install in ways that are unfamiliar to most American and Canadian parents. If you rent one, you’ll be learning on the fly and have to hope that you do use it correctly.

Renting a car seat can also get extremely expensive. Even if a rental agency caps the cost at around $60 per rental, if you fly or take the train to different parts of Europe it can add up quickly.

If you’re staying in big cities like London, Paris , Barcelona or Rome you can definitely work with public transportation. However, we’ve generally found that we prefer taking a taxi or car service from far-flung airports when we’re coming off of a long flight with sleepy kids and all of our luggage. Remember that even if taxis are exempt from car seat laws (varies by country and some specific details), it’s extremely unsafe to take your child in a taxi unsecured or using an adult seatbelt before they’re big enough. If need be, book a car service that provides age-appropriate car seats for those airport rides.

There are also plenty of places like Tuscany, Switzerland and Croatia (and many, many more) that are best explored by car. What do you do if you arrive in an unfamiliar destination where you need a car and you’re told that, sorry , they ran out of all the car seats that fit your kids? That’s not a great start to any vacation!

While it’s technically illegal to use a non-EU car seat in Europe, we’ve never ever come across a family who has gotten in trouble for doing so. I suspect that local police are just happy to see families keeping their kids safe.

There’s also some discussion in various family travel groups on Facebook about potential issues with insurance if you’re in an accident and the police make note on the report that you’re illegally using an American car seat and thus breaking car seat laws in Europe. Theoretically, that could happen. But again we’ve never encountered a single family who has experienced that in reality.

Our Europe car seat solution

Everyone’s decision on the great Europe car seat debate will be different. The only non-negotiable for us has been keeping our kids safe .

We’ve visited nine European countries with kids over the last six years, with kids ranging from 3 months old to 7 years old. And we’ve brought our own American travel car seats every single time.

Was it the correct legal choice? No.

Was it the most convenient choice? Not always.

But we felt that it was the safest option for our family. We do make sure to abide by (or exceed) local laws regarding how long to keep kids in car seats at each stage, and fortunately we’ve yet to run into a problem.

Incidentally, we’ve also used those car seat seats on our flights every time. It’s the safest option for our kids and ensures that their car seats arrive undamaged ( or arrive at all ).

As you plan your trip to Europe, hopefully this information will help you make the choice that’s right for your family.

Read more: How to travel with car seats – all the info you need before you fly!

While European car seat laws technically require that everyone* use car seats that meet EU or UN car seat standards, your American car seat will physically work in a European car. I’ve never heard of anyone being stopped or ticketed for properly restraining their child in an American car seat. * Everyone excludes Americans who are in Europe on official military or government orders. They are exempt from car seat laws in Europe and may legally use their US car seats.

While US car seat law technically requires that everyone use a car seat that meets America’s FMVSS 213 standards, you’d be unlikely to face scrutiny if properly restraining your child in a European car seat. That means continuing to rear face to 1 or 2 years old (depending on the state), using a forward-facing harness until at least 4 or 5 years old, and a booster seat beyond that. However , some car seats in Europe aren’t as universally compatible as American ones. Rigid ISOFIX connectors are not common in the US, and some lower anchors are deeply recessed or have ever-so-slightly non-standard spacing that may make ISOFIX seats incompatible in some cars. Load legs are also very uncommon in the US, while they’re a critical part of European car seat standards. They won’t work well in some rental cars, including minivans that have “stow and go” options in the floor boards. US car seats use a top tether anchor in lieu of a load leg. If you have a European car seat that can be installed with a seatbelt and doesn’t require a load leg, you won’t have any issues.

Newer EU car seat regulations only allow the Ride Safer travel vest car seat when used along with the TravelSmarter booster . That’s still a great, lightweight option for 3-5 year olds. You can read more about the Ride Safer travel vest here .

24 thoughts on “Should you bring your car seat to Europe?”

Hi, just stumbled upon this side when searching for airport travel with seats. I need to correct some things. I live in Europe and are member of the rearfacing society in Germany. There are two regulations – unr129 like you said but the old ece r44/04 is still in place. Only a seat with the unr129 regulation has the mandatory 15 month rearfacing rule. Using a seat with the r44/04 regulation it’s legal to forward face a child (no matter the age) from 9 kilos. Is it safe? No, absolutely not but it’s an older regulation. High back boosters (and the older backless boosters) start at 15 Kilo with ece regulation. Now they start at 100cm (backless boosters start at 125cm) with unr129 regulation.

Sweden (and Norway) has the same laws as the rest of Europe. But they do inform their citizens much better regarding extended rearfacing, so many people rearface until at least 3/4 years old, if not longer. And they have practiced rearfacing since the 70’s.

Depending on your seat category, your seat can face either way. 9-18 (or 0-18) kilo is the most common for turntable seats. But there are also seats that go from 9-36 kilo. There are some extended rearfacing seats up to 25 kilo but not many, and you’re right – you won’t find them in rental. Germany is an exception. They have stores like zwergperten and kindersitzprofis and Familie Bär where you can rent extended rearfacing car seats. But the stores that do rent are not many and they’re spread out across the country. Tje lw says that children need a car seat until they’re at least 12 years old or 150cm – countries can get permission to lower the height down to 135cm and drop the age restriction. Many countries do (I really don’t know why). If the handbook of the car allows it, you can turn off the airbag and put your child in the passenger seat. One thing that I like about European car seats though – the crash testing from adac/öamtc. They’ll choose new seats twice a year to be independently tested and they’ll always find seats that are bad. That way you’ll have a standardized test for car seats with higher (and more real) requirements. My axkid minikid or besafe compared to the graco extend2fit we have for US travels feels made of much higher quality.

Thanks so much for your detailed comment!

I am aware of ECE R44/04, but most visitors are unlikely to encounter them now that iSize has been commonly accepted by manufacturers for several years. As it’s technically against European law to use an American car seat, I would encourage parents to abide by the more stringent R129 standards to keep their children safer and avoid unwanted attention. Thanks for clarifying the new regulation on booster seats and cushions, I’ve amended the article to reflect that.

As to the relative safety of European seats, I hope that the US updates its testing standards to include side impact as well. It’s been a discussion here for almost 20 years and nothing is in place yet! Car seats here are all independently tested to Federal standards in a set of approved laboratories before they can be sold, and additionally the relevant government agency purchases seats from retailers at random to test as well. Some car seats definitely feel sturdier than others, but at least in the US they’re all required to pass the same testing. More important than which car seat you choose is that you use your car seat correctly 100% of the time and that children are kept rear facing until at least 3-4, then kept in a harness until they are old enough to sit properly in a booster seat, and don’t transition to the adult seatbelt until they’re able to achieve a safe fit.

Thanks again for your comment! Melissa

Where can I look up the regulations – specifically involving military? I want to make sure we are also covered on vacation trips and not just when officially traveling on orders.

Thanks for stopping by! I think you’re going to have to get that information directly from DoD or your CO, as SOFA likely varies by location. Feel free to report back on your findings!

Safe travels,

Thank you for this information! Are there no car seats that are certified to meet both US and EU requirements? Does that mean that the only way to follow the letter of the law when travelling with a newborn would be to obtain an entirely new car seat in the respective foreign country you are travelling into?

Unfortunately with respect to US-EU that is correct. There are some countries that legally permit US seats for visitors (examples include Canada if you’re driving your car across the border and New Zealand) while other countries don’t have their own standards and always allow US seats (like Mexico and Israel). The EU does not have such an exemption.

The good news is that if you’re very concerned with following the letter of the law, traveling with a fairly young infant is the simplest in terms of renting a car seat locally. Even older R44 infant car seats will fit a rear facing child until 9kg (Group 0) or 13kg (Group 0+). Obviously availability, care/maintenance standards and expiration are all concerns when you’re renting a car seat , but if your child is under 9kg you probably won’t run into the issue of age-appropriateness.

I hope this helps, and please let me know if you have any further questions!

Safe travels, Melissa

Thanks Melissa for the additional information.

My pleasure!

In Italy they actually often find a reason to get some money and US car seats are one of them. More importantly, one thing everyone forgets about is that if (knock on wood) you get into an accident the insurance doesn’t have to cover you at all when you had an American car seat installed in Europe.

Thanks for stopping by. Yes, it is theoretically possible for either of those situations to occur – which is why I already addressed them both in this article. My aim is to educate parents as to the pros and cons so that they can make an informed decision.

Ages 5; 6, and 7. Going to Italy for two weeks. Do we bring our own or rent in Italy. I’ve read that many times car rental services run out of car seats. What if rental car seats are dirty and filled with germs, especially now with COVID. Thank you in advance for answering

Thanks for stopping by! I would definitely bring your own. For any of the kids who are at least 40lbs and are mature enough to sit properly for the entire ride, I’d bring a travel booster seat . If one of your kids isn’t quite ready for a booster seat, you can consider the Ride Safer Travel Vest – when used with the top tether, it passes testing as a harness (and keeps sleepy kiddos from falling over, which is a really challenge when you’re traveling far and crossing time zones).

If you need more guidance on selecting the right booster seats for travel, feel free to share your kids’ heights and weights.

Hi Melissa, Thank you so much for all of the info! My family is traveling to Iceland soon with our 2 children. Our 9 year old is at least 50 inches tall and 60 lbs. I purchased the Bubble Gum inflatable booster for her. Could we use her Graco booster instead, or should we go with the inflatable? Also our son is 6 and is tall at 46.5 inches and 50 lbs. We have an older RideSafe vest and I’m considering using that and purchasing the RideSafe booster as well. Alternately we bought a Bubble Gum for him too, although I worry that won’t be appropriate. He falls asleep in the car sometimes but not too often. I don’t think carrying his high-back booster is an option so we’d like to go with one of the 2 above options. Any thoughts? Thank you so so much for your help!

As long as they can sit in position properly, the Bubblebum would be fine. That said, there’s nothing wrong with bringing the Graco turbo or the Ride Safer Travel Vest. The booster shouldn’t really be necessary with it, unless you want it so that he can see out the window better.

I’ll be in Germany for 20 days and thinking of buying car seats. This option will be cheaper than hiring them. At the end of the trip I will probably just leave them in Germany and donate them. What are your thoughts on this? Any reason not to buy them?

Thanks for stopping by! If it’s within your budget to buy seats in Germany and you can find options that suit your children’s sizes, there’s no reason not to. Just try to pinpoint and reserve your desired seats before you go AND download the manuals to familiarize yourself the required adjustments and installation in advance. One word of caution is that the harness limits of European seats are typically lower than in the US – it’s rare to see harnessed seats go beyond 18kg. You sometimes have to dig really deep into the specs to understand the rear facing and forward facing weight limits.

Hi Melissa,

I came across your blog when searching for travelling with child in Europe. I really love the Ride Safer Travel Vest but understand that it is not approved in the EU (and the UK). Reading your last paragraph you suggested that it is approved with a backless booster seat, may I know the reference to that please. It would be great if we could bring the Ride Safer Travel Vest. Another alternative option (just FYI) is the Trunki Boostapak which is definitely approved for use in the UK and EU.

Hi there- we are a family who travels/lives in Europe usually for 5-6 months a year, and the US for the other 6. Since my LO was an infant she’s always had her own seat on planes and we used the Doona until she maxed out. The past 2 years I have lugged our Graco E2F around. Besides being large and heavy to schlep everywhere, we have been so limited with taking taxi’s/ubers because I refuse to have her ride in a car without a carseat. I’m also a big proponent of rear facing until she’s 18 (kidding, but not really). When we get to our final destination where we have a car I just install and leave her E2F in there. However, I ran in to quite a bit of issues last year taking the carseat on flights within the EU (as she was over 36 months). I was forced to check it multiple times, which makes me anxious for many reasons. So now we’re about to head back to EU and I don’t know what to do. She is almost 4, around 33-34# and 39/40″ tall. I do have a CARES harness for flights. But my question is, do I buy a lighter weight travel carseat here (in the US) and take it with us – with the potential of having it checked in? Do I buy a seat once we’re there (which could also run the risk of being checked for plane travel)? Or should I buy a Ride Safe travel vest or Way B Pico? And are either of those technically legal in EU? I am making myself sick with all of the scenarios. I hate the idea of having her forward facing, but it seems that is my only reasonable option. Any advice or insight would be much appreciated. Thank you!!!

Hi Lindsey,

That’s a tough situation, but at almost 4 you’ve done a GREAT job keeping her rear facing. You’ve made a great choice! At her age, forward facing is very, very, very safe. She’s quite slim, so I don’t think the Ride Safer is ideal just yet.

Personally I would get a WAYB Pico for a few reasons. First, it’s obviously incredibly easy to take with you even when you anticipate riding in a taxi. Second, if a particular airline gives you a hard time about using it you can just fold it and stick it in the overhead bin. No worries about loss or damage! Third, while it’s not legal in Europe it *is* a safe choice. There are two similar European folding car seats now, the Urban Kanga and Maxi-Cosi Nomad. They are legal in Europe but not the US and they have lower limits than the Pico. Unfortunately they aren’t approved for aircraft use either, so I believe the Pico is the better choice.

If you don’t get the Pico, I would use CARES for flights and leave a European there. If you go this route, look CAREFULLY at the limits of each seat. Many Group 1/2/3 seats advertise a 25kg or 36kg limit, but those are for the booster modes. Lots of European seats only harness to 18kg (ISOFIX limit, and often they don’t have a seatbelt installation option) and you may feel more comfortable harnessing to 25kg. If you’ll feel comfortable switching to booster mode right at 18kg, you’ll have more options.

Best of luck, I know it’s a tricky situation!

Regarding car seats approved for both US and EU: how about NUNA’s Exec or Rava? Being a European company, they sell many of their products also in the US. Their website says that the materials meet US and EU laws, but nothing is mentioned whether the car seats are approved for actual use in both regions. Nuna’s European website does not feature these two products, so I am doubtful. Any idea?

Hi Dominik,

While the brand name is the same, the seats themselves must adhere to their own region’s design and performance standards. At this time there are no harnessed seats that are compliant within both Europe and North America. I hope that helps to clarify!

Hi there where can i find documentation stating that the Ride Safer Vest in conjunction with the Delighter booster can be used legally in Europe?

Hi Melissa, happy New Year & thanks for the great info!! You mentioned your family has been to 9 European countries in the last 6 years. Wondering if you’ve been to Portugal? We will be heading to Portgual this July with 2 kids (age 6 & 8 and turns 7 & 9 in August). We will be renting a car (5 ppl) and will be driving throughout Portugal for 2 weeks. The booster seats for the 2 kids will be $80 each and our thoughts are to save that money and bring our own boosters! It’s comfortable to read you’ve always brought your own (U.S version) for your kids. My question is, do you know if we can use the booster backless (w/o the back rest) in Portugal? Thanks!

I’m sorry for the delay in replying – we were at sea when you commented and this got buried underneath others! We haven’t been to Portugal, but your backless boosters will be fine. Existing backless boosters are still legal for use, but new ones can no longer be approved for kids under 49″. I hope that information helps.

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FinanceBuzz

12 Types of People Who Should Never Travel to Europe

Posted: March 10, 2024 | Last updated: March 11, 2024

You’ve finally reached a point where you’re ready to start traveling more . “Where should I start?” is a great question to ask yourself.

Plenty of fellow globetrotters might recommend Europe. The continent is definitely a top travel destination (after all, Paris was the world’s most-visited city in 2022). But just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you. So, if any of the following descriptors apply to you, we recommend skipping Europe entirely.

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People who don’t want to deal with the hassle of passport renewal

If you have difficulty keeping up with paperwork and tend to miss crucial deadlines, international travel might not be for you.

Having your travel documents in order is crucial when planning to travel internationally. Passport processing takes seven to ten weeks, not including the time your passport spends in the mail.

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People who haven't saved up

You could travel to Europe on a budget, staying in hostels and using a top travel credit card to travel for almost free .

But no matter how many excess costs you cut out, a trip to Europe is inherently expensive — if for no other reason than the currency exchange rate and passport or visa fees.

People who don't like jet lag

After your seven-hour flight across the Atlantic, you’ll land in a time zone at least five hours ahead of the one you left.

For every one to one-and-a-half hours you leap ahead in time, your body requires about a day to adjust. You won’t feel quite like yourself again until five days into your European vacation.

And you can expect to take at least five days to recover once you’re back home, too.

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People who hate flying

A non-stop flight from New York City to London is six hours and 55 minutes long. If you’re on the West Coast, it's closer to 11 hours (from LA to NYC) — not accounting for layovers or weather delays.

Luckily for the flight-averse, the United States is a remarkably road-trip-friendly country with plenty of beautiful new places you can explore within seven hours (by car) of your home.

People who don’t have much vacation time

If you can actually take a few weeks off, you might have enough to see the best sights Europe has to offer. But if you only get a week or so, a journey across the Atlantic just isn’t worth it.

You’ll have enough time to adjust to the new time zone before you fly home and start readjusting.

People who don’t like walking

If spending a lot of time on your feet isn’t your idea of a good time, save your money by skipping Europe.

Touring the Colosseum, wandering London’s vast Natural History Museum, and exploring the Louvre all demand quite a bit of walking.

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People who don’t want to spend a fortune on plane tickets alone

Plane ticket prices can vary depending on when you’re flying and how far in advance you manage to snag tickets.

No matter how early you get your tickets, expect to pay quite a bit for a round trip to Europe in this post-pandemic world: In the summer of 2023, the average plane ticket to the continent cost around $1,200.

People who aren't willing to pay more for gas

A trip outside the country can help put domestic gas pump costs into perspective. In Italy, for instance, a gallon costs around $5.96. In France, $5.54. And in the Netherlands, $6.48.

And that’s after gas prices stabilized, as they doubled during summer, coming to an all-time high. Needless to say, if you were planning on a Euro road trip, it could cost you a pretty penny.

People who aren't huge history fans

Europe’s cities are much older than America’s. Some by a thousand years or more. For instance, the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv has been continuously inhabited for around eight millennia!

While you can certainly find modern activities in any European city, your overall experience might be more interesting if you're passionate about the past.

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People who hate public transit

Because Europe is both old and densely populated, most cities have robust public transit systems.

Sure, as long as you don’t mind the high petrol prices, you can get around many European cities by car.

While you can save a lot of time and money, navigating subways, buses, and trains has a high learning curve, especially for visitors who don’t speak a country’s native language.

People who aren’t multi-lingual

Many Europeans speak English, so even if you don’t speak a second language, you can likely manage in many metropolitan areas in Europe.

However, you shouldn’t count on those around you speaking the same language as you.

And even if you’re surrounded by English speakers, it can be frustrating to constantly ask for translations for menu items or street signs.

People who aren't interested in museums

For many people, Europe’s biggest draw is its museums. The Louvre alone has 652,300 square feet to explore, which can take up to 65 days!

You can avoid wasting money by taking a trip closer to home. Spend half a day at a famous museum like Seattle’s Pop Culture Museum or New York’s Museum of Modern Art and devote the rest of your trip to other activities. Or, if you prefer a more active, outdoorsy vacation, a national park or a mountain town like Asheville, NC, could be just what you’re looking for.

Bottom line

For some people, traveling to Europe is the dream of a lifetime, but if you identify with any of the issues we listed above, you probably aren’t one of them.

Instead of visiting the region out of obligation or to fit in with the crowd, focus on finding travel opportunities closer to home to  earn miles and travel more  to places you want to go.

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