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Insurance basics

Will my UK car insurance cover me abroad?

Do not assume your UK policy gives you exactly the same cover once you cross the Channel. Many policies include some overseas cover, but the countries, duration and level of cover are not always the same.

Car keys and paperwork laid out on a map beside a parked car

A policy can provide the legally required minimum in certain countries without automatically extending every part of your UK comprehensive cover on the same terms.

Country and duration limits matter

Check the countries covered and the maximum number of days allowed in one trip or during the policy year.

Breakdown cover is separate

European breakdown assistance may not be included just because the motor insurance applies abroad. Check recovery, repatriation and onward-travel terms separately.

Take the documents you need. Depending on where you are going, you may need policy evidence, vehicle documents and other items required by local road rules.

Tell the insurer about longer trips

If you're taking the car abroad for an extended period, working overseas or effectively keeping the vehicle in another country, ordinary holiday cover may not fit the situation.

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