Ferry help

creamcoffee

hi I've never driven in France or been on a ferry so sorry if I'm a bit naive.

Do I need to call my car insurance company to check I'm insured to drive abroad in my own car?
I notice on the ferry booking they offer insurance, is that worth going for? Does it cover the entire trip?

Can I get currency on the ferry? I'm working all day tomorrow and the ferry is 8am Friday, this is a very last minute thing...long story...

Is there anything I Can't take in my car? I'm assuming liquids are ok and I Don't have to worry about luggage allowance?

Is there anything i need to be aware of driving in France?

Thanks, I'm sure these are silly questions, I'm more used to flying lol

Tarry

You can't take petrol/diesel in jerry cans on the ferry I know that for sure.
If you go past Folkestone services there is a ATM machine that dispenses euros that is free of charge. It's at the back of the service station opposite the toilets. You can get euros on the ferry too. Assuming you are going Dover to Calais?
Best to check with insurance company with car better safe than sorry. Can't really advise more on that as whom I am with does the driving. Breakdown cover as well best checking. No luggage limits. But don't be alarmed if they ask to check you, have been checked a few time.

christaitfife

Yes - call your car insurance company to check. Be careful if this isn't covered and they try to sell you an 'add on'... you can usually pick up temporary policies for driving abroad much cheaper online.
I never take insurance offered by companies - i always look for my own. i can usually find cheaper cover with greater coverage (and sometimes even with cashback via TopCashback!)
You can get currency on the ferry but the exchange rate will suck. I would recommend getting something like the Revolut card/ WeSwap card and just take Euros out at an ATM in France if needed.
Most things are fine in your car as long as you avoid immigrants, firearms or anything very flammable/ explosive.

Driving in france is pretty straight forward - just remember that you need:
2x unused breathalisers
1x high visibility vest
1x Warning triangle
1x set of headlight beam 'adapters'

You can get sets in places like halfords, but you would be much cheaper to search ebay for 'France driving kit'.

France's motorways are nearly all toll roads - they can be paid by cash, card or by Liber-t Tag. I use the tag as it is quicker and easier - but does cost a little more (an application fee!). https://www.saneftolling.co.uk/ is the web address for the official toll tag,

It is illegal to have speed camera warnings on any system in France - so if using a Sat Nav make sure these alerts are turned off.

Alter_ego

Make that one high vis for anyone likely to leave the vehicle in an emergency kept inside not the boot., one breathalyser is the legal requirement but it's not enforced.
Breathalyser must be NF marked,

ossie

Do not forget breakdown cover for Europe! Theoretically you are still required to carry a self-test breathalyser when driving in France but there is no current legislation demanding a fine for non-compliance. Earpiece handsfree is also illegal now! Ferry has a currency exchange outlet! REMEMBER give way to right and drive on right too!

christaitfife

Alter_ego wrote: »

Make that one high vis for anyone likely to leave the vehicle in an emergency kept inside not the boot., one breathalyser is the legal requirement but it's not enforced.

Ahhhh.... yes. But if one needs to test ones breath your 1 tester is used and you will not have the unopened one required by law It is a dumb law - you need the tester .... but not allowed to use it.

It is true that it is not enforced, but for the sake of a couple of pounds it is worth getting. Things happen, and it is better to keep on the right side of the law where you can.

DCFC79

Re the insurance it depends what is covered, you could buy your own policy if you like. Yes you aren't restricted with luggage but obviously the more you take the heavier the car will be so more petrol used.

creamcoffee

Thank you all so much for your replies, i was intending to use the sat nav on my phone, i have a phone holder stuck to the windscreen, will that be allowed?

PolishBigSpender

Blimey, so much misinformation here.

You will be insured by default. EU law means that you have a minimum of third party cover in every EU state, although you might want to upgrade that. Of course, take all the documents - car registration, insurance policy and driving licence.

knightstyle

lets get this right, you need a hi vis waistcoat with a CE label in reach of the driver at all times.
You can get €s at any cash machine with your UK bank or credit card, most petrol stations supermarkets etc. take UK cards.
Pertrol and diesel are cheaper in France so fill up there.

sooty&sweep

Hi
You can print a route map through Via Mitchellin
We use a sat nav but find it useful to plan a route before hand.
Enjoy your trip
Jen