car insurance to tolls
Before embarking on a road trip to mainland Europe, there are a few important factors to take into consideration, namely insurance, breakdown cover, and payment for tolls.
In terms of insurance, UK car insurance policies typically provide automatic third-party cover while driving in EU countries, including Switzerland, and a few others. However, most individuals would prefer to have comprehensive cover, so it may be necessary to communicate with their insurance provider. Some insurers, such as LV=, already include driving in Europe for up to 180 days as part of their comprehensive cover. Other insurers may offer up to 30 days of comprehensive cover, but it often comes at an additional cost. It is important to review your policy and add coverage if needed.
When it comes to breakdown cover in mainland Europe, the first question to ask is whether you are already covered. Lease cars often come with manufacturer-provided breakdown cover that usually extends to the entire European region. Additionally, many UK breakdown policies and car service plans automatically include coverage for Europe. For instance, Nationwide’s FlexPlus current account includes comprehensive breakdown cover for the entirety of Europe, and similar benefits are offered by certain other paid-for accounts.
If you don’t have any other coverage and prefer the peace of mind, a standard two-week cover typically ranges from £30 to £80. In a recent comparison conducted by Compare the Market for a 2017 car spending two weeks in mainland Europe in August, the cheapest policy was £31 from Nova Direct. In contrast, the AA priced the same trip at £80, while the RAC quoted £82.
However, it’s advisable to avoid the cheapest providers unless you have an exceptionally reliable car with no history of problems. Rescuemycar.com offers reasonable policies for £44, while Green Flag provides well-regarded mid-priced options. AutoAid is also worth considering, as it offered 17 days of cover in mainland Europe for £47 with its Euro Rescue cover. Comparing prices on comparison sites may yield cheaper premiums than purchasing directly.
Keep in mind that the cost of tolls alone from Calais to Nice is currently about €110 or £95. When purchasing such policies, note that some companies impose age limits on the cars they cover, typically around 10 to 15 years. They also generally won’t repatriate a vehicle to the UK if the cost exceeds its value. This is something to consider if you’re planning a long trip with a low-value vehicle.
If you’re planning an extended drive in France, don’t forget to account for the expense of motorway tolls and determine how you’ll pay for them. Paying as you go by credit card at the automated booths is often a preferable option, unless you anticipate frequent journeys. While signing up for the Télépéage automated toll payment service, such as Sanef Télépéage, may offer queue-skipping benefits during busy periods, it typically incurs upfront and ongoing charges that may not be worthwhile for those making a single annual trip.
