Euro 2016: hit the road Jacques

With three of the home nations having qualified for the European Championships – and hosts France such a short hop away – this summer’s tournament is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of British nationals.

And whether you’re travelling by land, air or sea, we’ve got everything you need to #BeOnTheBall. If you’re already thinking about your visit, then take a look at our top tips on what to do before you start packing gov.uk/euro2016.

Although just across the channel, there are some differences you need to be aware of if you’re driving in France (whether hiring a vehicle or driving your own), and we’ve teamed up with Economy Car Hire to highlight some of the host cities key attractions, drives and rules of the road.

Hiring a car 

For many, this is the easiest option – you can keep the miles off your own car and enjoy the many scenic routes available in your free time. If you are picking up a hire car for the trip, you’ll need the following documents on collection:

• Driving licence
• Booking reference or confirmation
• Credit card to authorise the security deposit before the vehicle is released

Don’t forget to do a thorough inspection of the car with a company representative before you drive away – make a note and take photos of any existing damage, to protect yourself against any potential claims on return.

Taking your own car?

Make sure the car is up to the trip and check oil, tread depth, washer fluid etc. before you set off. Also, as you’ll be driving on the right hand side of the road, you’ll need to adjust your headlights, which can be done manually or with the stick-on orange deflectors.

If you have an older car without GB marked number plates, you must display a GB sticker on the vehicle.

Getting the right kit

When driving in France you are legally required to carry the following items:

• Reflective jacket – must be kept within the vehicle and not the boot
• Warning triangle
• Breathalyser
• Documents – ensure you always have your driving licence, evidence of insurance and your registration certificate (V5C) in the vehicle at all times

Other necessaries

Travel insurance is an important must for your trip, as is an EHIC, but don’t forget your car insurance. It is a legal requirement and can help protect against costs for any potential damage during your trip.

Once on the road

Drink driving is much stricter than the UK, drive carefully and make sure you know your limits before you get behind the wheel. We’d strongly recommend against drinking any alcohol if driving.

Speed limits are clearly marked and if broken can result in a fine of up to €375 on the spot. If you have a digital speedometer, set it to display KPH instead of MPH and make sure you look out for signs indicating a change in speed.

In France it is common practice to give right of way to traffic already on the move at roundabouts. When approaching, keep an eye out for ‘Cedez le Passage’ signs. If they’re there, give way to the traffic already circling. If there’s no sign, you have right of way and the traffic in the roundabout will stop for you.

So before you hit the road, ensure you have a safe and enjoyable journey by doing the right research and being fully prepared.

Stay up to date with the latest travel advice before you go with FCOtravel on Twitter and Facebook. You can also check out our ‘Be On The Ball’ page at gov.uk/euro2016.

If you haven’t already booked your accommodation for the tournament, have a look at our recent collaboration with Trivago on alternative places to stay during the competition.