UK Ferry Tickets

When most people book a holiday, whether it is a package holiday or a self drive, they tend to focus on details like their insurance, what they are going to pack, how they are going to get to their destination, how to keep the kids entertained on the way… you get the idea! Of course these are all important considerations but even more important than that, if you are going on a self drive then you have to consider whether your car is up to the task!

A car is obviously a must have if you’re going on a self drive and don’t want to hire a car, and thousands of people do take their own cars abroad on the ferries. Many people feel more comfortable in their own cars than a hire car because they know how it works, including all of the little quirks it may have. After all, they drive it day in and day out at home. However, driving around the roads close to home and driving on strange roads in a different country are two very different propositions. For example, if you break down close to home then you can call your roadside assistance service or a friend/family member to come get you before getting your car fixed at a local garage. If you happen to be in France or Italy (as two very popular examples) then what would you do?

This is why it’s important to assess whether or not your car is suitable for travelling abroad in before driving it onto the ferry. There are several components of this process but the first is the most important – getting your car checked over by a qualified mechanic. Take it down to your regular garage and ask for a full service about a week before you head off on your self drive. They will be able to look at it and pinpoint any potential problems. With a week to go, they will also be able to fix them, even if they have to order a part. The service involves having your lights and wheels checked as well so even any smaller issues can be sorted out in advance.

Another thing you should do before heading on your self drive with a car is making sure that all necessary fluids are at good levels. This includes the oil, anti-freeze, radiator and windscreen wipers. In fact, check the levels of every fluid in your car to make sure that you have enough to be going on with. It really is better to be safe than sorry because you will have difficulties if you go abroad. If you have to go to a garage in certain parts of Italy, for example, then you would most likely be charged a foreigner’s tax as well as the service fee, meaning that they would charge more because you aren’t a local. There is no way to avoid this at all unless you make sure that your car is good to go! You’ll have peace of mind and a lot more money in your pocket when you return than you would otherwise have had.

Guest Article by Louise Crowley

Thursday, January 15th, 2009