118 COVER ME GOOD...

So we have the cars maintained, serviced, and MOT'd, and everything looks good.  But what happens if something goes wrong? Who can help us if things go sideways deep in the Black Forrest?  The AA, that's who.

The AA offers Single Trip European Breakdown Cover (for one-off journeys) or Annual European Breakdown Cover (for multiple trips - limited each trip to 90 days).  So what are the key features?  Let me break it down for you (pun intended):

• 24/7 English-speaking helpline

• Defaqto 5-star rated cover

• Unlimited overall claim limit (per trip with annual cover)

• Full roadside assistance

• Up to £1,500 for alternative travel

• Up to £500 for emergency hotel costs

• Help you reach your destination or get you and your car back home

• Hire car before, during and after your trip to keep you on the move

• Option to add Parts and Labour to your policy – get help with garage and repair bills, up to £500

It sounds good, but it also sounds expensive, doesn't it? Well, it is. Single Trip Cover on the Abarth for 14 days costs around £175.

For that, the AA will have my back in Andorra, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Portugal, Republic of Ireland, San Marino, Spain, Switzerland, Vatican City.

Certain restrictions apply, but they should not affect our trip. They won't cover vehicles over 16 years old or with pre-existing mechanical problems. There is also no cover for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes or cars used for business purposes abroad.

Right, we are in. What, except for cash, do we need?  First and foremost, we need valid UK car insurance, vehicle registration documents, and a valid driving licence. We also need a Green Card from our insurer; I'll need to explore this.

They also offer various optional extras, but a good maintenance routine and the safety net of AA Breakdown Cover should be enough to get us to Monaco and back.