The conditions are different when you drive in your country and when you drive abroad. The traffic rules may have similarities but you will find that things are different. You migh flash your light in one country to tell another driver that you are giving way while in other countries doing the same thing means the driver does not intend to slow down.

Here are some tips to help you survive driving during your travels:

Road Signs

The internet will be one of your best friends prior to travelling abroad and deciding that you will drive a vehicle on a foreign territory. Read about the traffic rules and be familiar with the road signs. If you are getting a map for a certain country, you will also find there the most common road signs you will encounter.

Some common signs will be telling you that you are on the Wrong Way. This will be a red circle with a horizontal white line inside. An inverted red triangle on a white backdrop means Yield. In most countries, turning on red is not permitted.

Driving Permit

Most countries allow foreign drivers on their roads if they have an international driving permit. Depending on your country of origin, inquire on how you can get one. Some countries will honor your driver’s license for a certain period of your stay.

Be careful when on the freeway

Majority of the tollways in France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy are pretty much quiet and your driving experience will be more on the pleasurable side. On the elevated roadways or autostradas of Italy though, you can expect some aggressive driving by most people on the road.

When driving on the highways, motorways, or expressways make sure you are on the proper lane. It is illegal to be staying on the passing or overtaking lane. You need to give way to those who are going faster. Pay attention to your mirrors since you may encounter vehicles overtaking you at very high speeds.

In rotondas or round abouts, you need to remember that traffic near the circle will always have the right of way in case you are trying to merge.

Speed limits

This should be common sense. If you are heeding the traffic rules in your own country, then do not even think of committing a violation in other countries. You may find most European countries very strict in the implementation of their traffic laws.

In most countries, the max speed will be around 80 mph or around 130 kph. In Portugal highways, you are limited to 120 kph while in the UK you can go as fast as 70 mph. Some portions of the German autobahns do not impose maximum speed limits but the recommended tops is 130 kph.

Always remember that there could be speed traps when you try to violate speed limits and the fines are often a big headache. There are also countries who utilize traffic cameras to snap at plate numbers of traffic violators. For this one, you might be billed later by the rental company when you return the car.

Auto Insurance

Call your car insurance company and ask if your coverage will be effective even when abroad. You might want to ask about assistance during vehicle breakdowns and ask if you are insured in case you meet an accident in another country.

Rush Hour

If you will be going to Europe or Asia, it will be wise to avoid driving during the rush hours. Whether you are in Paris, Athens, Rome, Manila, Bangkok, or Bangalor expect some crazy congestion on early morning and late afternoon rush hours. You have to be very careful with the very aggressive drivers in these regions.

Road Bandits and carnapping

If someone bumps your car from behind and you are in an unsafe area, do not stop but signal the other party to follow you and go to the nearest police station. In some parts of the US, Asia, and Europe, carnapping is rampant. Make sure that you park in well lit places and where foot traffic is high.

Some thieves with their accomplices might also distract you. They will pretend that they need help but they are really after your belongings.

Do not drive when you’ve had any alcohol

If there is one rule you really have to stick to when driving in another country is that you should not attempt to drive when you took any alcohol. You do not want to be apprehended on spot checks or at roadblocks. The penalties are very severe and it could ruin all your travel plans.

Seat belts

Be safe and wear a seatbelt. Your passengers at the back will also have to buckle up.

Pedestrians

Do not expect that pedestrians in another country follows all the rules. You might encounter people crossing the road where they are not allowed to. Also depending on where you are, you might have to anticipate pedestrians coming from another direction than what you are used to.

Breakdowns

You really do not know what you might encounter. A flat tire, out of fuel, or maybe engine problems. Make sure you have an early warning device or a reflective triangle as required by most countries. In Europe, you may have access to to roadside emegency telephones. But just to be sure, bring a cellphone and have emergency numbers handy.

Parking

There are different rules and customs when it comes to parking. Some may require you to get tickets or some will offer you time cards. You can get them on convenience stores or most will be available through automated machines. Make sure that you are familiar with the parking rules or your vehicle might be towed away or face a hefty fine. There can also be certain times during the day when parking rules are lifted in some suburbs or towns.

In Asia and some European countries, old people or street kids may take the job of looking after your car. It will be nice if you give them a small tip for the job.

Plan your trip well

If you are having a roadtrip, make sure you have all the essentials before hitting the road. Plan your stops and make sure you mark on the map the nearest fuel stations, diners, motels, and hospitals.