Breakdown cover in 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.

What are the driving rules in Italy?

It may sound obvious, but the rules of the road in Italy aren’t the same as in the UK. Like the majority of European countries, Italy has some road laws that motorists need to be aware of when driving there.

• Drive on the right and overtake on the left
• Vehicles approaching from the right have right of way
• Seatbelts are compulsory for everyone in the car
• On motorways with three lanes, the right-hand lane is reserved for vehicles driving slowly

For more information on road rules in Italy, read our extensive guide here.

Other important considerations before travelling in Italy

Of course, when travelling in Italy there are other aspects you need to consider, as well as driving. It’s worth getting travel insurance to cover you for the duration of your trip. Browse RAC Travel Insurance today.

Your bank will also need to know you’re abroad so they can be aware of any payments you make while in Italy, and know they’re genuine. It’s a good idea to let your mobile phone provider know you’re away, too, so you can be sure you can use your phone as normal.