There is another necessity that is neglected by most of us however - car insurance. It seems many of us either ignore or forget about this important step. Data from the 2007 summer shows that over a quarter of British drivers didn’t confirm they were covered for driving overseas on their existing car insurance policy. 43% had overseas insurance but were not sure what the exact details of their cover were. Half the people surveyed didn’t tell their insurer they were going to be driving abroad. The truth is that there can be no excuse for not dealing with car insurance before travelling abroad. The least of your obligations is to inform your insurer you are driving abroad.

Below are some guidelines to assist you if planning to drive abroad:

• Confirm the details of your policy before travelling. It is vital to know what you are covered for as you are unlikely to be covered for overseas driving and even if you are it may only be for third party cover. You can always enquire with your insurers about getting additional cover at extra cost. Insurers such as Asda Car Insurance will allow you to extend a fully comprehensive policy to cover you for 93 days overseas travel if you let them know the following details; your policy number, dates of travel, registration number, the model of your car and where you plan to travel.

• Insurance specialists Churchill done some research and estimated the cost of fixing and transporting your vehicle back to the UK in the event of a breakdown can average £1200. For this reason it is vital to make sure you have European Breakdown cover.

• For proof of cover for overseas driving you will need to be able to provide anyone who wants that proof with something called a Green Card. This should be provided to you by your insurer when you get your policy.

• Be sure to check your travel insurance as thoroughly as you check your car insurance policy. Make sure you are covered for everything you expect to be covered for such a theft, illness and legal assistance etc. Additionally, to prevent voiding your policy, make sure you inform your insurer about any activities you may be going on holiday for. Go Travel Insurance put activities into groups labelled 1-4; activities in group 1 such as cycling are covered by the regular policy whereas you will need to pay extra for activities in the other groups. AA Travel Insurance and Directline give policy holders the option of getting a combined car insurance and travel insurance policy when travelling abroad.