The road markings make it almost impossible to drive on the left. The only time we had to remind ourselves to drive on the right was if we had been parked on a road and were just setting off. Passengers can help here by reminding the driver to drive on the right. Once travelling it is almost impossible to get it wrong.
We like to leave our travel very open ended and therefore in the past we’ve booked onto the Speedferry at the port. However, on the last trip we discovered they are not set up for this any longer and so booking on-line is probably better. On the return journey in France they were fine about paying at the booking-in booth.
The Speedferry takes about 45 minutes but often the Seacat provides a rougher crossing especially if it’s choppy to start with. The crossing takes longer on the other larger ferry and the boarding takes longer because of the trucks and coaches being loaded but the crossing is smoother on a traditional ship. Trucks are not allowed on the roads on Sundays so loading may be quicker.
Neither type of ferry allow you to take animals on deck. They have to be left in your vehicle and you will not be allowed onto the car deck once the crossing is underway. See www.defra.gov.uk for information about the pet travel scheme, you need at least 6 months to prepare your pet.
Motorcaravan parked in a little village called Grossthiel in Normandy
Prepare your vehicle by purchasing some beam deflectors. These only cost a few pounds and just stick onto the headlights after warming them for a few minutes. Even if you don’t intend driving at night, during dark murky days or in tunnels lights are needed. In France (and much of Europe) they require vehicle lights turned on 24/7 although we have not seen this being enforced in France.
Take a well equipped spares box with fuses, bulbs etc. It is also necessary to take a warning triangle, a reflective jacket (for passengers as well) and a first aid kit. These are a legal requirement in many EU countries.
Obviously a passport is required but in addition the following are needed:
Driving licence - the new photocard or the pink/green EU version of the UK driving licence. The old all green licence is not acceptable.
We also take a Camping Card International to avoid having to produce our passport at camp sites. These are available from motoring or camping and caravanning organisations such as RAC, AA, Caravan Club etc.
The European health Insurance card is available at a Post Office or at www.dh.gov.uk/traveller and this entitles you to emergency treatment but you also need personal health insurance from a company of your choice.
You will also need vehicle insurance for travelling abroad. We use the Caravan Club Red Pennant personal and vehicle cover.
You will need a vehicle identifier. This may be either the old GB sticker or the new EU, GB identifier.
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