Record numbers of Brits are hitting the roads across Europe this summer. Our data shows a 64% increase in searches for car hires to European destinations compared to last year, with the Scandinavian jewel of Norway topping the list as Brit’s favourite spot for a road trip.
But before you go, get to know the local road rules. From nudity behind the wheel in Germany, to camels having right of way in the United Arab Emirates, driving on the wrong side of the road may be the least of your worries.
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 strangest traffic laws to watch out for when driving abroad.
1. Croatia: Prohibited to have a full petrol can in the car
For safety reasons, it’s prohibited to have a full petrol can in the car in Croatia, but a spare set of headlight bulbs is a legal requirement. An extra set of bulbs is also mandatory in the Czech Republic.
2. Kentucky: Women in bathing suits
In the US state of Kentucky, women may wear a swimsuit while driving, but only if they carry an object of self-defence with them. Failing this they must be accompanied by two policemen.
3. Germany: Naked driving allowed
Germany is even more liberal when it comes to the driving dress code. A car counts as a ‘private space’, so nude driving is permitted by law. Think about keeping your shoes on though, you might lose your insurance coverage if you’re involved in an accident.
4. England: Hold on to the car while taking a leak
If the next service station along the M1 is miles away and nature is calling, breathe easy. Drivers in England are allowed to relieve themselves beside the road, as long as they are beside the car’s rear tyre and have their right hand touching the car.
5. Iceland: Insurance against nature
You’re guaranteed adventure in Iceland, with half of the island accessible only by four wheel drive. Not to mention the weather, which is so unpredictable that local car hire agencies recommend taking out insurance for potential damage from volcanic ash or extreme wind.
6. Germany and Italy: Seat belts for dogs
Remember to fasten your canine companion’s seat belt in Italy. In Germany, your pet is considered “cargo”, so while there’s no safety belt rule, you must protect them from slipping and falling in the vehicle.
7. China: Driving made tricky for tourists
Hitting the road in China is difficult, as you’ll need a permit that has been issued within China. Getting the permit isn’t easy, and takes up precious holiday time! If you don’t want to use taxis or public transport, it’s common to to rent a car with a driver – or you can always ride a bike…
8. UAE: Priority for the ships of the desert
In the United Arab Emirates, camels are important status symbols. Respect for the ungulates goes so far that they are always given right of way in thoroughfares.
9. Minnesota: Gorillas in the passenger seat only
In the US state of Minnesota, gorillas are allowed to travel in the car with you, but only in the passenger seat. Any driver who dares to seat a great ape in the back of their vehicle risks a fine.
10. Austria: Speeding tickets in Austria
Austrian traffic police are permitted to use their own judgement to estimate the speed of your vehicle in speed zones of 30km/h or less. Their “trained speeding eye” means you may be at risk of a speeding ticket even if there is no speed camera in sight!
