Preparing for your visit to Italy
Once you have your breakdown cover in Italy, it’s important to start planning for driving in Italy. As a motorist, you’ll be expected to carry documents and in-car kit that you might otherwise not need when you’re driving in the UK. Here are the some of the things you can do to reduce your chances of needing roadside assistance in Italy:
Documents and paperwork
When driving in Italy – as anywhere in Europe – you should carry a full and valid driving licence; passport; a copy of your car insurance documents and your V5C (vehicle registration) document. Remember that garages are unable to provide an estimate for repair work without a valid V5 document, so make sure that you have this with you.
Vehicle equipment
You might be used to travelling light in the UK, but items that are optional at home are compulsory in many European countries.
In Italy, you’re legally required to carry reflective jackets for all passengers if you break down. If you are not wearing a reflective jacket/waistcoat/braces you could be liable for a fine and penalty points on your licence.
You’re also required to carry a spare tyre; a warning triangle, again if you break down and need to warn other motorists that your vehicle is stationary, and beam deflectors for your car’s headlights. If you don’t have all of these items, take a look at our European Driving Kits, which include many of the must-have items you need when driving in Italy.
Vehicle maintenance
Give your vehicle a thorough inspection before you start your journey to ensure it’s in good condition and ready for the road. Make sure you check the state of the tyres – inflation and tread – fluid levels and windscreen wipers (look out for any tears, even minor, and replace if necessary). It might be worth booking your vehicle in for a service at a garage, too. Take a look at our RAC Approved Garages before setting off on your trip.