Motorcycling Abroad

Biking abroad

There’s nothing better than getting your motor running, heading out on the highways of Europe, looking for adventure and whatever comes your way. The thrill of discovering new roads, stunning scenery and great food as you move from town to town, region to region, country to country is surely one of the best ways to travel.

Before you get too carried away and start believing you’re Ewan McGregor, it’s important to make sure you have the correct insurance coverage and paperwork so read our helpful tips and advice for biking abroad.

Make sure you have your motorbike insured, travel insurance (check out MORE TH>N for the best deals in travel insurance), European Health Insurance Card, Green Card (if needed), vehicle registration document, MOT, licence, passport, breakdown policy and a GB sticker if your bike’s number plate doesn’t have the EU marking.

Check that your MOT and road tax doesn't run out when you are on holiday as this could invalidate your insurance.

Take photocopies of documents and keep them separate to your other documents.

Check with your insurance provider that you’re covered to ride a motorbike abroad and for medical expenses resulting from an accident. Ask for details regarding what happens if you have an accident or if your bike is stolen while you’re abroad. It’s important know what you are covered for before you go away. If you are involved in an accident, contact your insurer immediately and, if you can, take photographs of any injuries and damage to your motorbike.

Make sure your breakdown coverage is valid for the countries you’re visiting.

Have the correct licence for your trip. You must have a full motorbike licence and check whether you need an International Driving Permit. Check out the Foreign Office website for travel advice on the countries you’re visiting.

Familiarise yourself with the driving laws of the countries you are visiting. It’s good to know which side of the road you should ride on before you set off and see a truck coming towards you.

Service your motorbike before leaving and check that your bike complies with the vehicle requirements of the countries you’re visiting. You should take a spare set of keys, first aid kit, tool kit, mobile phone (check coverage and charges), tie downs to secure your motorbike on ferry crossings, spare bulbs and emergency helpline numbers.

Always wear a helmet and protective clothing, whether you’re driving the bike or a pillion passenger. Travelling by motorbike is more dangerous than by car so ride defensively and expect the unexpected.