Britons get their Kicks on Route 66

Britons probably spend more time driving while on holiday than they do at home, according to the latest research from National Car Rental. In a survey of National customers, 42% said they planned to drive over 500 miles while abroad on holiday this year. And a further 37% said they would drive between 250 and 500 miles. Forget the M6, Britons are getting their kicks on Route 66 along with a whole host of other great driving destinations, relishing the freedom and flexibility of self-drive holidays.

While the distances appear huge, most people plan to complete their road trips in 8-14 days; perhaps allowing for the odd unscheduled diversion or encounter with the locals - both residents and wildflife! This may be based on previous experience as 68% said they had got lost while driving on past holidays abroad and 53% said they had encountered confusing and unclear road signs along with local driving eccentricities. The need for vigilance is further reinforced with the feedback that 41% of respondents had come across stray wildlife in the road while driving on holiday!

National also quizzed customers on their top tips for driving abroad. Preparation came top as the most frequently offered piece of advice along with tips such as planning fuel stops and getting to know your car before setting off. (See table).

Dawn Clayton, Leisure Marketing Manager for National Car Rental said: “There’s nothing quite like hitting the road in a new place and setting your own itinerary, but as our survey has shown, preparation is key. It is for this reason that we launched National’s Drive Safe road safety initiative accessible via nationalcar.co.uk or at nationaldrivesafe.co.uk. Drive Safe provides information on city driving, country driving, road rules and road safety initiatives within each country.

There is also information on driving regulations and requirements, essential local knowledge and advice on motoring laws such as speed limits on motorways, alcohol limits and road tolls. The recent update to the site has seen Bulgaria, Lithuania and Jordan added to the already extensive list of more than 45 countries now on Drive Safe.

“A little preparation will go a long way to ensuring that a dream road trip really is just that.”

Top Tips for Driving Abroad

Buy a good map and plan your route before you go

Research driving hints and tips for the country you are visiting

Be patient and relaxed – remember you are on holiday

Stay within the speed limit and be aware of local laws

After a long flight pick up the car the next day

Know where the petrol stations are before departing on a long journey

Be smart and hire Sat Nav which is available from selected locations

Don’t try to drive like the locals!

Get to know your car before you set off

Don’t be afraid to stray from the major routes