Breakdown cover abroad looks bright this summer

As hordes of Brits make their way out of the country for some fun in the sun on the Continent, news is doing the rounds that snapping up a breakdown cover policy for overseas is a real solid money-saver.

According to research by The AA*, getting a broken down car back from Italy could cost just under £2,000.  In Germany, a new tyre can go for £137, when you could easily pay less than half that in the UK, and motorway recovery to the nearest garage is a little shy of £200.

People have clearly realised that driving instead of flying can be a money-saving opportunity, but breaking down in another country sends the costs rocketing.  Head of Green Flag, Henry Topham, said: “Families can make significant savings if they drive to Europe. Based on a family of four going to Spain, driving would cost less than half the equivalent return flights.”

“However, it is vital that motorists ensure they have breakdown cover in place as the costs of recovery can end up making a holiday on a shoestring an expensive getaway.”

You may have breakdown cover in place already, but it is unlikely to include European breakdown cover unless you already asked for it.  Having it in place ensures that vehicle assessment and recovery won’t empty your wallet.  Each provider is different in terms of the features and options, but you can guarantee that any provider offering European breakdown cover will give you the option of ‘single’ or ‘multi-trip’; if you are a frequent traveller then the latter is for you.

You can expect roadside assistance and a selection of other benefits that could include alternative transport, emergency accommodation and vehicle recovery to the UK.  The price will vary depending on provider, but it’s certainly going to be cheaper than a tow to a local garage and repair in another country.  The most effective way of finding any type of roadside assistance policy is to compare breakdown cover, which will give you an overview of policy features and cost.  This saves time and is much easier than checking out individual websites for information.

Older cars can be marginally more expensive due to decreased reliability, but doing a breakdown cover comparison offers the best chance of finding a policy at a suitable price.

*Source: The Independent 26/06/2011