Preparing to go: What do you need to take?

Checklist

It’s compulsory to carry the following items when driving in Germany:

• Your passport
• Insurance documents
• V5C certificate for proof of ownership
• Full, valid driving licence

If you’re driving your own car, you should also pack the following items:

A GB sticker - GB Sticker

You won't need this if your number plate contains the GB Euro symbol - if it doesn't, you’ll need to apply for a sticker.

Headlamp beam converter kits - Leuchtweitenkonverter Kits

When driving on the right, you’ll be at risk of dazzling drivers whenever you use headlights set up for use on British roads. This can obviously prove dangerous (and, in the event of an accident, can invalidate your insurance), making it essential you adjust them beforehand. This is easy enough to do yourself with a converter kit, but ask an expert for help if you have any trouble.

Warning triangle - Warndreieck

It’s not the law to carry a warning triangle in Germany, but if you become immobilised, it is compulsory to use one. To avoid getting caught out, make sure you have one with you - it’s a good way to warn approaching vehicles of the hazard ahead, and can help to keep you safe.

Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) - Globale Krankenversicherungskarte

Don’t treat the GHIC as an alternative to travel insurance, but rather another way to make life easier in the event you fall ill or suffer an accident. Carrying this little card entitles you to a discount on state-provided healthcare, and sometimes it’ll even remove costs completely.

If you’re heading to Germany, it’s well worth packing a sat nav to help you find your way.

Before you go, remember the following:

• Make sure your sat nav is set up for use in Germany. Although this might seem obvious, it's easy to assume that it’s ready to go, only to turn up and find out it isn’t.
• Radar speed camera detection systems are prohibited in Germany, which means if your sat nav has one, you should look to disable it. However, be aware that it's ok for your sat nav to have listings of known fixed speed cameras.

Insurance from Swinton and Safeguard

• Car Hire Excess Insurance - Protect your finances from costly excess charges on insurance for rental cars
• Car Insurance - A flexible range of policies for a wide range of cars and drivers
• Breakdown Cover - Flexible cover to help get you back on the road
• Touring Caravan Insurance - European cover included as standard
• Motorhome Insurance - European cover included as standard

Driving abroad

Be sure to check out our other driving abroad guides:

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