How to road trip Europe: in any season!

It may be the world’s smallest continent, but Europe spans thousands of miles, from Arctic snowfields to sun-baked southern Spain, where on a clear day you can spot Morocco across the water. 

It’s one continent, but it covers Arctic, temperate, continental and Mediterranean climates (among others), and 51 countries – all with different road laws!

Despite this, driving is straightforward most of the time. Roads are usually well maintained, signage is clear, and in mainland Europe, everyone drives on the right. 

But covering long distances means things can go wrong – and the last thing you want is to break down at night and try to explain your location in a language you don’t speak!

So, here’s how to best plan for a European road trip and any eventualities that can occur! 

The all-season vehicle health check

Start with a full vehicle check. It doesn’t matter whether you’re heading for mountain passes or coastal highways — if the car’s not in shape, neither are you.

Focus on the basics: brakes (pads, discs, fluid), tyres (tread, pressure, alignment), and all key fluids — engine oil, coolant, transmission.

Don’t skip the battery. Heatwaves and cold snaps both bring hidden faults to the surface. Carry a power bank or jump starter as backup — it’s far easier than flagging someone down in the middle of nowhere.

Preparing for rain-swept roads

If you’re coming from the UK, you might not realise how common seasonal tyre changes are across much of Europe. In countries like Germany or Austria, switching between winter and summer tyres is standard (and a requirement in some areas). 

It’s also important to prepare for rain – because this can happen anywhere in Europe !

Start with your wipers. They’re easy to ignore, but crucial when visibility drops. AUTODOC puts it plainly: “Wiper blades are important elements of the vehicle passive safety system. If they are worn out, driving the vehicle, especially in rain or snow, becomes dangerous.” High-quality blades aren’t a luxury — they’re a safety essential.

As autodoc.co.uk reports, the cost of new wipers varies depending on the brand and product specs.

Beyond that, make sure your tyres have enough tread to disperse water properly – it’s what stops you aquaplaning. And finally, check every exterior light. They should be sealed, functional, and bright enough to be seen in poor weather.

Sun-proofing for Southern Europe

Temperatures climb fast once you head south. In places like Andalusia, it’s not unusual to hit 20°C in winter – and summer heat is another level entirely! SO your cooling system needs to be up to the job. That means checking the radiator, hoses, fan, and coolant levels before you set off, as long drives and mountain climbs can put it all under strain.

Air con is often dismissed as a comfort feature, but it’s more than that. Driving in a hot, stuffy cabin increases fatigue, which raises the risk of mistakes – especially on long, exposed roads.

When parked, use a reflective windscreen cover to shield the dashboard and stop the cabin turning into an oven. It’ll save you a few degrees when you get back in.

Mastering the alpine snow and ice

Altitude can alter winter conditions fast. Even in spring, high mountain roads across Europe, including in Italy and Slovenia, can be covered in snow while the valleys stay mild.

If your route climbs, make sure your tyres are rated for it. That means either winter tyres or all-season ones with the “Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake” symbol, which confirms they meet the standard for severe snow.

Check your coolant has the right antifreeze mix to prevent freezing in low temperatures. And look up local laws before you go, as in many countries, snow chains or winter tyres are mandatory in mountain areas at certain times of year.

Drive on the right – UNLESS you’re in these countries

Most of Europe drives on the right — but not everywhere. A few countries still follow left-hand driving, usually due to historical ties with the UK. If you’re arriving by ferry or crossing a border, it’s easy to forget, so double check before you set off.

These countries drive on the LEFT

​​🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

🇮🇪 Ireland

The Republic of Ireland also follows left-hand driving.

🇲🇹 Malta

Despite being in mainland Europe’s sphere, Malta drives on the left — a legacy of British rule.

🇨🇾 Cyprus

Also a former British colony, Cyprus drives on the left, including in both the Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus.

General tips for a Europe road trip

  • Carry your documents: Keep your passport, driving licence, vehicle V5C, insurance certificate, and International Driving Permit (if needed) easily accessible.
    Know the road rules: Speed limits, road signs, and drink-drive laws vary by country — check them before crossing any border.
  • Carry required equipment: Some countries legally require hi-vis vests, warning triangles, spare bulbs, or breathalysers. Don’t get fined for missing kit.
  • Watch for toll roads: France, Italy, Spain, and others have extensive toll networks. Budget accordingly and keep a payment method handy.
  • Use offline maps: Signal can vanish in mountain passes or rural areas. Download maps in advance on Google Maps or another app.
  • Don’t rely on cards alone: Many fuel stations, especially in France, are unmanned and don’t accept all cards. Always keep some local cash.
  • Check low emission zones: Cities like Paris, Milan and Barcelona require emissions stickers or registration before entry.
  • Plan fuel stops: In remote areas, fuel stations may be rare or closed at odd hours. Don’t let your tank get too low.
  • Use rest areas: European motorways have frequent aires or rest stops — ideal for a stretch, picnic, or even overnight break in a camper.
  • Avoid peak travel days: Saturdays in August can mean full-blown traffic chaos, especially in France and Italy. Travel midweek if you can.

Snow and sun are often just a few hours apart in Europe! But with the right preparation, you can have a varied and successful road trip, whatever the weather!

Some images on this site are sourced from Depositphotos.