Skiing the Alps

Driving Abroad - A Checklist

August 2007

Before leaving, carry out the following checks:

• Anti-freeze if of sufficient strength
• Washer bottle has sufficient fluid and is strong enough to cope with -20c
• Tyres have good tread pattern
• Spare wheel is inflated to correct level
• All electrics under the bonnet have been sprayed to prevent dampness
• Good route map and road map of your resort area

Always carry with you:

• Snow chains
• Spare set of light bulbs
• Tow rope
• Windscreen wash fluid
• Warning triangle
• Route map
• Vehicle registration document (copy)
• E111 Health Insurance document
• Ice scrapper plus soft brush to sweep off loose snow
• Photos (passport size for your lift pass)

Do's and Don'ts:

• Never park at your resort facing uphill. If your battery goes flat, it is easier to jump start the car if you are facing downhill!
• Never drive too fast for local conditions. If there is snow and ice on the road, drive at a safe speed and arrive safely.
• If it is snowing before you reach your resort, put on the snow chains before you become stuck. If you block the road to other traffic, you could face an on-the-spot fine. (carry a pair of heavy duty gloves so that your skin does not come into direct contact with cold metal.