Tips before you drive off on holiday

When you are planning a self-drive holiday in Europe, it is important to know the rules for safety equipment – they vary from country to country.

A warning triangle is mandatory in most countries, and in several EU countries it is also a requirement to have at least one high-visibility vest in the car. It must be used in case of an accident or if you leave the car on the road. We recommend having one vest for each person in the car.

In some countries, it is also mandatory to carry a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a breathalyzer.

Therefore, always check the rules in the countries you will be driving through.

When driving abroad, you must always carry Part 1 of the registration certificate. It serves as documentation of the vehicle’s registration and may be required by authorities.

If you do not have the certificate, you can order it via My Ayvens or by contacting Ayvens Customer Service at kundeservice.dk@ayvens.com or by phone at +45 3355 8000.

Please note that delivery time from the Danish Motor Vehicle Agency (Motorstyrelsen) can be up to two weeks, plus additional time for postal delivery.

The red card It is no longer necessary to carry the red card when driving abroad.

If a traffic accident occurs, or if you need assistance, you can get help via roedtkort.sos.eu or by calling +45 7010 5052. Please note, however, that vehicle recovery (e.g., if your car is stuck in snow or mud) requires that the rescue vehicle can access the car.

Assistance via SOS International requires that the car has comprehensive insurance.

The green card The green card proves that the car has third-party liability insurance. In most EU countries, as well as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Andorra, and Serbia, it is not necessary to carry it.

Outside the EU/EEA, however, it may be required or advantageous to have it with you – for example, in certain Balkan countries or nearby regions outside the EU.

You can read more about the green card at dfim.dk.

If you are involved in an accident If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a traffic accident during your self-drive holiday, it is important to know how to react:

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  First, ensure everyone’s safety
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  Call emergency services – throughout the EU you can dial 112 (outside the EU, other national emergency numbers may apply)
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  Contact the police so an official report can be prepared
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  Collect all relevant information from the other party (including name, contact details, registration number, nationality, and insurance company)

If you have comprehensive insurance, you are typically covered by the Red Card scheme (see section 3 above), which gives you access to roadside assistance abroad via SOS International.

It is a good idea to print out the European accident statement form and keep it in your car in case an accident occurs while you are abroad.
You can print the form here: Accident abroad You can read more about accidents and damage here: Accidents and damage

Breakdown during your holiday Even though you hope your trip goes smoothly, unexpected issues can occur, and your car may suffer a technical breakdown. It is therefore a good idea to know who to contact and how to get help quickly and efficiently.

If you experience engine problems or other technical issues, you can always contact Ayvens Technical Department at +45 3355 8080. They can guide you on how best to handle the situation.

If you are unlucky enough to get a stone chip or a broken window, Carglass can, in most cases, help with repair or replacement – often quickly, so you can continue your trip.

In many cases, both roadside assistance and any necessary vehicle repatriation will be handled by SOS International, ensuring you receive the required assistance no matter where you are.

Tip: Save the most important phone numbers and links on your phone before you leave – this way you are well prepared if something goes wrong.

In many countries, you must pay to use the road network – such as motorways, bridges, and tunnels. Payment is made either at toll booths or via a vignette (sticker) placed on the windshield.

Motorway vignettes are mandatory in several European countries, including Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Montenegro, and failure to display one can result in significant fines.

In addition, many cities have environmental zones where a special environmental sticker is required – among others in Germany and Italy. You should also be aware that in some German cities, this requirement applies to electric vehicles as well.

The rules vary from country to country, so pay close attention when driving through multiple countries. Vignettes and environmental stickers can typically be purchased online or from retailers such as FDM.

There are some specific conditions you should be aware of if you take a company car on holiday. It is always a good idea to check with your employer whether it is permitted to take the company car on vacation.

Also clarify:

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  Which expenses are covered (fuel, tolls, ferries, etc.)
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  Whether there are any special terms or conditions

If fuel is not included, in some cases you may be able to have the cost deducted from your gross salary as a personal contribution. This requires that you pay using a fuel card or keep your receipts.

Make sure to bring:

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  Your physical driving licence (digital apps are not valid abroad)
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  Passports for everyone – including children
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  The blue European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Additionally:

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  A DK sticker if the car does not have EU number plates
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  A pet passport if traveling with animals
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  A “medication passport” for medicines containing controlled substances
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  Possibly an international driving permit (IDP) when traveling outside Europe

When driving outside the EU, additional document requirements may apply.

Parking disc Digital parking discs are not accepted in all countries (e.g. Germany). Therefore, check the rules at your destination.

Medical pre-assessment If you have a pre-existing condition and are undergoing medical treatment, it is recommended that you contact your travel insurance provider and request a pre-assessment – also known as medical pre-approval. This ensures that your coverage is clarified and confirmed before you begin your journey.

Young drivers Please note that the rule allowing 17-year-olds to drive independently only applies in Denmark – not abroad.

Check the first aid kit Make sure the car has an up-to-date first aid kit. In several countries, this is a requirement.

Pack the car carefully Avoid loose luggage, as it can be dangerous during sudden braking. Use a luggage net, partition, or roof box. Also remember to adjust the tire pressure according to the vehicle’s load.

• Flashlight or headlamp
• Power bank for your mobile phone
• Warm blankets
• Engine oil
• Water and snacks

Read more about driving in Europa at:www.trafikken.dkwww.fdm.dkwww.sos.dk

Remember to obtain a temporary registration certificate from the vehicle registration office if you have a new car and therefore only have a provisional registration certificate. See item 2.

Ayvens wishes you a pleasant road trip and holiday!