85 ESSENTIAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT...

We haven't been able to sign up for the Rally yet, so we haven't received our 'Bust Rallies Bible'. Because of this, I'm guessing what we need to make the journey and trying to find out how difficult it is to source.  

Carl phoned me and mentioned that it occurred to him that we might need to modify our lights so we don't blind the locals as we pootle around on the continent.  Honestly, the lights on the Abarth are so rubbish that Johnny Foreigner could sit with their head pressed against my headlight on full beam, and they would barely notice.

I've been doing some digging, and we need to keep a fair bit of kit in the boot, or we risk having to bung a gendarme a few Euros before we are on our way.

Essential Safety Equipment

Warning Triangle

- Required in most European countries, two are needed for France.

- Must be placed a specified distance behind the car in case of a breakdown or accident.

Reflective Jackets/Vests

- Required for the driver and all passengers when driving in France.

- Must be worn if you leave the car on a highway or during an emergency.

Headlamp Beam Deflectors

- Adjust headlights to prevent dazzling oncoming drivers when driving on the right side of the road.

Spare Bulb Kit

- France requires you to carry spare bulbs for your car's lights.

First Aid Kit

- Mandatory in Germany.

Breathalyzer

- Required in France

Fire Extinguisher

- Mandatory in some Eastern European countries like Poland and Greece but a nice to have in all countries.

Documentation

- Valid driver's license

- Vehicle registration documents (V5C or equivalent).  

- Proof of insurance.  

UK Sticker or Identifier

- Vehicles from the UK must display a "UK" sticker unless the registration plate includes a UK identifier.

A quick trip to the RAC shop and I was able to pick up a Premium European driving kit which includes two warning triangles, a first aid kit, a universal fuse and bulb kit, two adult high vis vests, two headlamp beam deflectors, a UK sticker, a magnetic UK plate and an LED torch, all stored in a handy carry case. Another box ticked for £35.