Auto Insurance in Other Countries

If you have your heart set on experiencing your overseas vacation behind the wheel, plan before you go to avoid problems and auto insurance nightmares.

Do Your Homework

The following tips could save you money on auto insurance and save you unnecessary stress when driving abroad:

• Research, research, research-- visit the country’s Web site to learn about the rules of the road, contact the American Embassy, and talk to friends who’ve been there.
• Book your rental car reservation early-- you may get a discount for planning ahead and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about driving conditions, auto insurance coverage abroad, and generally what to expect and how to prepare.
• Never underestimate the value of a good map-- planning your route before you go will help make your trip go more smoothly.
• Bring a trusty companion-- your friend can help you navigate and act as a second pair of eyes on the road.
• Shop around for your auto insurance coverage abroad-- you may find a better deal on auto insurance than you can get from a rental car company.

Drive Like a Native

You may find it difficult at first to drive in a foreign country, but it shouldn’t take you too long to get the hang of it with some practice and preparation.

Below are a few things to keep in mind while driving abroad:

• Road rules and signage are different
• Rules are stricter for alcohol usage and driving
• New drivers must display provisional stickers for 1-3 years in some countries
• In Australia and the UK, people drive on the other side of the road

Your Auto Insurance Policy Abroad

Your Esurance auto insurance coverage (like most insurance coverage in the U.S.) applies only in the U.S. and Canada. If you’re traveling abroad, you’ll need to call the rental car company you plan to use to find out the auto insurance requirements for the area.

Practice Safety

Make sure you always wear your seat belt regardless of where you’re traveling. Should you get into an accident it could save your life.

Also, get into the habit of locking your doors immediately after getting into your vehicle. This will prevent uninvited guests from entering your vehicle when you’re stopped at a light or an intersection. Locking your car every time you leave it could also help deter theft thus avoiding costly auto insurance claims!

Get More Information 

Visit the U.S. Department of State for more information and services available to American citizens overseas at http://www.state.gov. When you drive in another country, you’ll find that preparing in advance for your trip and having the right auto insurance coverage is the only way to travel.