Items to carry in your car

• UK sticker (if needed, see below)
• Reflective jackets
• Headlight beam deflectors
• Breathalyser alcohol test
• A warning triangle
• High visibility jacket in case of a breakdown
• Snow chains if coming in winter

Documents

• Passport(s)
• Driving license
• Proof of car insurance
• Breakdown cover details
• V5C certificate (vehicle’s log book)
• A credit card somewhere handy to pay for the tolls

Road laws

There are a few French road laws that British drivers should be aware of:

• From September 2021, UK number plate stickers have replaced the old white oval GB stickers. If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack), you do not need a UK sticker to drive in France. However, you will need to display a UK sticker clearly on the rear of your vehicle if your number plate has any of the following: a GB identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack); a Euro symbol; a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales; numbers and letters only – no flag or identifier.
• From 2022, all vehicles travelling in the French Alps between 1st November and 31st March must carry in their car boot (or be using them if the road requires) metal snow chains or snow socks suitable for fitting at least two driving wheels; or be equipped with 4 winter tires, mounted on at least 2 wheels of each axle. Find all the info here.
• Dipped-beam headlights must be used in poor visibility and in tunnels.
• The drink-drive limit allows only 0.05% alcohol in the bloodstream (0.08% is the legal limit in England and Wales).
• It is prohibited to use any device that attaches to the ear while driving a car, e.g. Bluetooth headsets/earphones.
• Drivers must carry a warning triangle and a reflective high-visibility vest at all times.

If the mountains are calling and you’re in a hurry you’ll find a good range of service stations with eateries and often, play areas, on-route, as well as road-side hotels. If you’re saving money for lunches on the mountain, budget hotel chains include F1 (the cheapest), Fasthotels and Ibis Budget. Family rooms can be booked from anywhere between €40 to €110.

If you’d like to get into holiday mode and include a stop somewhere interesting, there are some excellent options:

Reims

A pretty, Gothic city and the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing. The city has a total of 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites and is a must for history fans.

Paris

France’s capital city needs little introduction, and continues to live up to its reputation as a global centre for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture.

Dijon

Known for its traditional mustard, vineyard tours, gastronomic fair, historic buildings and elegant squares, this city is a worthy place to rest your head for a night and enjoy a memorable stroll and meal.

Troyes

An unusual town, medieval Troyes features narrow, cobbled streets lined with colourful, half-timbered houses, mostly dating from the 16th century. Great restaurants and hotels can be found in the centre.

Pets

Both the Eurotunnel and ferry companies allow you to travel with your dog. Check out the information to decide which is best for you and your pet. Bring your best friend on the Eurotunnel from £22 each way; or £15 on the Dover – Calais crossing. As with humans, dogs must remain in the car during the tunnel crossing. On the ferry they must also remain inside your vehicle, however, you can visit your pet during the crossing.