🎵 We’re all going on a summer holiday 🎶
There's no escape quite like hitting the road. So, if you've got wheels, wanderlust and plenty of time, we highly recommend setting off on a European road trip. From croissants in France to spritzes by an Italian Riviera, there's something suited to all tastes. And, considering you're checking out a Jackyards article, we're going to go ahead and assume you own a VW California. With that in mind – while we do believe you'll have a lovely time – the times, they are a'changin'. . . and here are 10 top things you really ought to tick off your European travel checklist.
First things first, each passenger in your VW will need an in-date passport. But in the days since COVID, you'll need to travel with your COVID Travel Pass, details of which can be found here. Simply put, you must upload vaccination proof before travelling with each passenger. For ease of access, we recommend using the NHS app and suggest you have paper copies available just in case.
Secondly, if you travel via the Tunnel, you must upload certain documents BEFORE arriving at the Terminal. Instructions are pretty clear and indicate requirements for fully-vaccinated and non-vaccinated passengers.
PLEASE NOTE: You will be classed as a "large vehicle"
On leaving the UK passport control, head to the departure area and look out for the "Large vehicle "lane. Pull up at a kiosk, and you’ll be directed into a numbered lane to queue before boarding.
Police are very active at the border crossings and will check paperwork. The South of France is considered a high-risk area. Once in France, you might travel without supplying any COVID-related details, as most restrictions have been lifted. However, it's better to be safe than sorry. It's unlikely you'll be asked to produce any records at campsites or restaurants – regardless of whether rates are high here. On which note, masks are still compulsory on public transport.
The above are the main elements you’d find on anyone’s VW European travel checklist. However, we thought we’d run through some things you may not have expected but really ought to at least consider, like . . .
#1 | Do you need light deflectors?
There seems to be mixed opinions on whether these are required on VW California's with LED lights. However, given that LED lights are wholly flat and present no problem with oncoming traffic at night, no change is needed. We would say that the presence of LED lights would render the fitting of light deflectors relatively mute.
#2 | Does the mileage automatically switch to kilometres?
Mileage does NOT automatically switch to KM. Even with the multi-media screen upgrade, you must go into settings and manually change MPH to KM. If you go into the vehicle menu, settings, and units, you can switch from MPH to KM. However, doing so will change the whole digital dashboard to KM, complete with revised dials, etc.
#3 | Should you carry LED replacements?
Carrying around a headlight or rear light unit is not only unnecessary but will also work out to be quite expensive. That said, a spare set of replacement bulbs from somewhere like Halfords might come in handy before you reach a professional VW outfitter.
#4 | Do you have to switch off camera warnings?
Speed camera warnings will automatically be disabled in Europe, depending on the system. Most systems with integrated camera warnings won't work in countries that prohibit them. In this case, we recommend using something like Radarbot Pro or Waze. Both have amazingly accurate mobile and fixed camera databases all over Europe, the UK, etc. If need be, you can also have it run in the background, and CarPlay will still send the alert tones to warn you stealthily!
#5 | Do you need a low emission zone sticker?
Regardless of whether you're headed to the more populated cities – like Paris – it's worth veering on the side of caution. Whilst you likely won't be caught, these are cheap and easy to get on their official site. Plus, you never know where the road might take you! Temporary emission zones may include highways in some regions, which will only worsen in the future.
#6 | Is it worth investing in a tag for tolls?
If you have a co-driver and are travelling at non-peak on French holidays, it's not required. Yet typically, a tag is an investment and will save you stress and plenty of queuing. Bip and Go is highly recommended and works well in France, Spain, Italy and – well – all of Europe. There are multiple formulas to choose from, such as pay per month or annually. The fact that you can keep driving is a great convenience (30kph - 20mph), you lose less time, and it's better for fuel economy.
#7 | Do you need proof of European breakdown cover?
No matter if you have an extended warranty with VW, it's advised that you have proof of breakdown cover handy. Whilst many believe this is NOT the case, older vans could miss out. This is because VW Assistance only lasts three years from the point of registration. It is not extended alongside extending your warranty. You should therefore have a VW Assistance card that lasts three years. These can be renewed for £160 and last you two years.
#8 | Taking electric bikes?
If you're taking electric bikes, there are some things to remember. The most important of which are the batteries. If someone goes into the back of your vehicle and crushes the bike's lithium battery, it will likely ignite and catch on fire. Therefore, you must either remove the batteries while travelling or use the correct warning signage for the bike rack. "Turnable" versions of such signage are available for different countries – and yes, we are serious. Sure, it might be the same colours but feature stripes in another direction, but the law's the law!
#9 | Ever wondered whether you need to take the logbook?
Don't wonder; just take it. It'll show that you rapscallions haven't just nicked your VW California. The logbook – also referred to as the V5c – proves who owns the van. If the police ever stop you, you’ll be asked to provide a passport, a driving license and a V5c (logbook). The DVLA also advises that you get a duplicate log book if the original has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed by you or your insurance company.
#10 | Speaking of which – the police
Chatter online suggests that the local police in France are "normal" whereas Gendarmerie can be a bit stricter. The same can be said of Italy. Polizia Locale is normal, and Carabinieri is more rigid and militarised. That said, it’s best to expect that officers are friendly and will regularly check driver's licence and vehicle registration. We also recommend you do your best at speaking the local language (but not to the extent it appals the officer in question)!
Lastly, these are the essential points. Get yourself some REAL baguettes and pain au chocolat from a small bakery in a small town when you get the chance. Please take notice of the speed limit(s) as they regularly change, and you don't want any pesky mistakes to make your trip expensive. Also, French law says you need one yellow hi-vis jacket per occupant travelling in the van. These need to be in a place where you can access them without leaving the vehicle – so not tucked away in the depths of the boot!
So, we hope you have fun on your trip and we hope you enjoyed this VW European Travel Checklist – Bon voyage!
Wait! We almost forgot! To make your European road trip all the more special, why don’t you travel in style? Here at Jackyards, we design and manufacture bespoke bags and custom-made VW seat covers. You can order these online via our shop but, if you’d prefer to have a chat about your order first, please call us. We can discuss your ideas and in particular the whole range of fabrics, colour choices and trim we offer. It’s a very personal process, so we want you to be entirely happy with your decision and the end product!
“Thanks Denise, the covers look fantastic. Very well made and tailored to my exacting needs! and the dogs love their bespoke matching bed. Highly recommended.”
- Claire W