Insurance for Driving Abroad

Driving Abroad Car Insurance 

If you are going overseas and plan on driving you have two options; hire a vehicle or drive your own car. If you hire a vehicle the insurance is often bundled with the car hire agreement when you’re renting a vehicle, as a convenience for the renter. However, if you are driving your own vehicle then you will most likely need an international auto insurance policy, an international driving permit, temporary, short term or overseas car insurance. 

For information and prices for car insurance for driving abroad, visit Quotezone.co.uk. Whether you are taking your car or your campervan, if you need overseas insurance coverage for your vehicle Quotezone.co.uk can assist you. Regardless of whether you are going on a quick trip to the EU or a longer tour, you will be able to find insurance coverage that will suit your budget and insurance requirements. 

Does my existing car insurance cover me to drive abroad? 

If you’re wondering whether your existing To determine whether your existing insurance policy includes car insurance for driving abroad, and to ensure you have the necessary coverage, you have a few options for finding the answers. 

These can include: 

• Review your policy documents 
• Contact your insurance company 
• Check for geographical coverage 
• Determine the type of coverage you have
• Inquire about limitations and restrictions 
• Verify coverage limits for rental cars 

It is important to clarify your driving abroad insurance coverage before travelling abroad, as not having adequate insurance can lead to significant legal and financial issues if an accident occurs. 

Does UK insurance include overseas car insurance coverage as standard?

Most insurance policies in the UK typically provide at least basic coverage for driving in the European Union. Despite this, it is recommended that you do not automatically assume your current policy will include comprehensive overseas car insurance as a standard feature. Car insurance policies in the UK are primarily designed to provide coverage within the UK and will give you third-party-only coverage in EU countries. 

For other countries, you will need to carry a ‘green card’ which proves you have the minimum level of insurance required for the country you are driving in. Since Brexit, the rules between the UK and EU have been changeable so always be sure to check the latest information on coverage limits for UK car insurance policies before you travel.

If you are looking for comprehensive car insurance with coverage for driving abroad, this is often available as an add-on to your UK car insurance policy. So if you are travelling abroad by car frequently this coverage is essential to give you peace of mind when you are in unfamiliar territory. 

How can I ensure I have the best car insurance for driving abroad? 

The best car insurance for you will depend on the places you plan to travel and the coverage you want along the way. There are several steps you can take to ensure that you have a smooth and safe journey when travelling with car insurance for driving abroad.

These steps can include: 

1. Review your existing policy to check for international coverage and understand its limitations. 
2. Contact your insurer to discuss your plans for driving abroad. 
3. Assess your destination and determine the counties you plan to visit and the duration of your stay.
4. Speak to your insurer about adding additional international coverage.  
5. Consider an international driving permit to provide sufficient coverage. 
6. Research local law and insurance requirements. 
7. Make sure you have your documentation with you. 

Ensuring that you have the best car insurance with cover for driving abroad involves research, careful planning, and communication with your insurance provider. 

How much does this type of international car insurance cost, on average? 

The cost of international car insurance can vary significantly based on several factors. 

These factors include: 

• Coverage type: Getting an add-on to your existing policy or getting a new policy will have different impacts on costs. 
• Duration of coverage: Costs can vary based on the amount of time you need the coverage. 
• Vehicle type: The make and model of the vehicle can impact the cost. 
• Destination: Insurance costs can differ between different countries.  
• Your profile: Age, driving history, experience, claims record. 
• Insurance provider: Insurance rates can vary between insurers. 
• Deductible and coverage limits: Typically the higher the deductible the lower your insurance rates are. 
• Additional features: Add-ons like roadside assistance. 

Prices can vary a lot based on these factors but the best way to get an accurate cost for your circumstances is to compare quotes on driving abroad insurance. Do this in minutes with just a few simple details with Quotezone’s quote form. 

Does the country I’m driving in affect the cost of car insurance for a holiday abroad? 

Yes, the country you intend to travel to can significantly affect car insurance for a holiday abroad. There are several reasons why insurance premiums can vary based on your destination. These can include: 

• Local insurance regulations 
• Local risk factors 
• Traffic conditions 
• Exchange rates
• Type of coverage 
• Car theft and vandalism rates 

It is essential that you provide precise information about the countries that you plan to travel to so that you get an accurate estimate of the cost of car insurance for your holiday abroad, and so that you have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle.

Do Northern Ireland insurance policies come with driving abroad insurance as standard?

With Northern Ireland’s unique position, it’s understandable to ask this. Like the UK, Northern Ireland car insurance policies will provide third party only coverage for driving in the Republic of Ireland, as it is part of the EU. However, for comprehensive coverage, motorists from Northern Ireland will still need driving insurance abroad, whether driving in the Republic of Ireland or any other non-UK country.  

What is an insurance green card and how do I get it? 

A Green Card, also known as a Green Card Certificate or the International Motor Insurance Card, is an internationally recognised document that serves as proof of insurance coverage when driving a vehicle in a foreign country. The Green Card is particularly relevant when travelling to a country that is part of the Green Card system. 

The Green Card demonstrates that a vehicle is adequately insured even if it is from another country. To obtain a Green Card you need to provide your insurer with specific information about your trip, the duration of your stay, and details about your vehicle. Once it is confirmed that the Green Card includes the necessary coverage, your insurer will issue you a physical document that you must carry with you while driving abroad. 

Do I need an international driving permit before getting insured to drive abroad? 

No, typically you do not need an international driving permit (IDP) before you can take out overseas insurance. The IDP translates your domestic driver’s licence into multiple languages and provides a form of identification that will help law enforcement officials understand the information on your licence. While it is not generally a requirement to get an IDP to obtain car insurance for driving abroad, there are benefits to having one, and some countries may require one as a form of identification. 

Is there a limit on how many days I can drive when using car insurance for driving abroad?

Some insurance policies offer coverage over extended periods while others have limitations on the duration of coverage. Whether there is a limit to the coverage depends on the terms and conditions of your insurance policy and provider.  

There are a few key points to consider: 

• Policy terms 
• Short-term as opposed to long-term policies 
• Notifying your insurer as to the duration of your trip 
• Compliance with your insurance policy 
• Check local regulations