Spain offers great beaches, fantastic weather and for Brits, it is pretty affordable. No wonder that it tops the list of countries we love to head to the most. With over 18 million visitors travelling there from the UK each year between 2017 and 2019, it’s almost twice as popular as France.

Now, with pandemic restrictions and entry limitations finished, Spain is very much open for business, and it’s also often cheaper to drive than fly. We take a look at how the rules have changed since Brexit and all the things you need to know before embarking on a road trip to Spain.

1. Have the right documents

Getting your documents in order should be the first step in preparing for a journey abroad, you should be aware of the following points when traveling to Spain:

• Make sure your car insurance covers you outside of the UK – keep proof of this with you
• If your vehicle is registered in the UK, it needs a ‘UK’ sticker on it when driving abroad. The older ‘GB’ stickers are no longer valid
• Ensure your UK driving licence is valid – an international driving permit is not required
• The V5C document proving your car is registered to you is required
• Carry some form of identification- usually your passport

In summary you will need your:

• Driver’s licence
• V5C registration doc
• Proof of Insurance
• Passport

2. Check what has changed since Brexit

There have been a few changes since the UK left the EU. All vehicles registered in the UK now need to display a ‘UK’ sticker instead of the older ‘GB’ sticker when traveling overseas.

The UK is also not bound by the EU cross-border directive anymore, meaning that EU countries can no longer pursue speeding offences committed by UK drivers abroad.

UK residents can travel to Spain (or any European country) for a period of up to 90 days in a 180-day period without requiring a visa, however, from May 2023, UK travellers will need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) visa waiver to enter EU countries.

If you have been vaccinated for Covid, keep proof of this with you.

3. Be familiar with French road rules, as you’ll also be driving through France

Driving to Spain will take you through a large section of France, so it’s important to bear a few things in mind:

• Most large French cities now have low emission zones – Zone à Faibles Emissions (ZFE). You will need to apply for a Crit’Air sticker on the official website, this will determine which zones your vehicle is allowed in. The cost is €3.11 + €1.40 postage outside France.
• Display a ‘UK’ sticker on the rear of a UK-registered car
• Your UK driving licence is valid in France – you do not need an international licence
• You cannot take meat, milk or dairy into France
• You are not allowed to use your radar detector while driving through France – even navigation systems displaying fixed speed cameras are illegal
• Fruit and vegetables can be taken into France if you have them inspected beforehand
• You will need to either manually adjust your headlamp or use deflector stickers to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic
• The national speed limit is 130km/h (80mph) on motorways, dropping to 110km/h (68mph) in inclement weather conditions

4. Work out the best route

All routes to Spain involve a trip across the English Channel to Calais, you can take the ferry from Dover which is about 1hour 30 minutes or use the Channel Tunnel, which is around 35 minutes, but costs more. There are many ways to drive through France and we list a few options below. Bear in mind that the estimated time and distance starts from Calais.

The quick route: Calais – Rouen – Tours – San Sebastian

• 685 miles, 10 hours 20 mins est.
• Includes tolls
• Channel tunnel to Calais
• Calais to Rouen on A16/A28
• Rouen to Le Mans and then Tours on A28
• Tours to Bordeaux on A10
• Bordeaux to Biarritz and then San Sebastian on A63

This route is mostly on the motorway and includes a number of tolls.

The cheap route: Calais – Rouen – Le Mans – Poitiers – Bordeaux – San Sebastian

• 669 miles, 13 hours 51 mins est.
• Ferry to Calais
• Calais to Rouen on A16/A28
• Rouen to Le Mans and then Poitiers on D347
• Poitiers to Bordeaux on N10/A10
• Bordeaux to San Sebastian on A63

This route avoids all toll roads; however it will take at least 3 hours longer than the quickest route and will involve areas of single lane roads which can significantly slow progress.

The scenic route: Calais – Paris – Limoges – Bordeaux – Bilbao

• 771 miles, 13 hours 26 mins
• Includes tolls
• Channel tunnel to Calais
• Calais to Pairs on A26/A1
• Paris to Limoges on A10/A71/A20
• Limoges to Bordeaux on E606
• Bordeaux to Bilbao on A63

The scenic route is longer and slower than the most direct options, so an overnight stay in Limoges (see the medieval houses and stunning porcelain and glass products) or Bordeaux (to stock up on fine wines) is a great way to break the journey.

5. Be familiar with Spanish driving laws

• You are not allowed to use your radar detector while driving through Spain, however, navigation systems displaying fixed speed cameras are legal
• Display a ‘UK’ sticker on the rear of a UK-registered car
• You must carry a high-vis jacket and warning triangle in the car
• You can use your UK driving licence in Spain
• You will need to either manually adjust your headlamp or use deflector stickers to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic
• The national speed limit is 120km/h (75mph) on motorways

Driving to Spain from the UK FAQs

How long does it take to drive to Spain?

The quickest route from Calais to San Sebastian can be done in just under 11 hours. The ferry from Dover to Calais takes 90 minutes, while the Channel Tunnel takes 35 minutes. Budget at least 14-15 hours for the entire journey if you live in the southern parts of the UK and plan to travel further inland than the Spanish border.

How far is Spain from the UK?

The distance from Dover to San Sebastian is 732 miles.

The distance between the two capitals, London and Madrid, is 1,070 miles.

Can I drive in Spain with a UK licence?

Yes. Your UK licence is legal in Spain

Do I need an IDP to drive in Spain?

No. If you have a photocard driving licence you do not need an IDP (International Driving Permit). If this isn’t the case for you then check this government portal to see what the requirements are.

What do I need to drive in Spain after Brexit?

From May 2023, UK travellers will need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) visa waiver to enter EU countries. You will need to display a ‘UK’ sticker on the rear of any UK-registered car.

Do I need extra insurance to drive to Spain?

You will need to confirm with your insurance company that you are covered for travel abroad.

What side of the road do they drive on in Spain?

The Spanish drive on the right side of the road, and so should you.

Do I need a Green Card to drive in Spain?

No. A Green Card is proof that you have car insurance and it is necessary to have this in some countries, but neither France nor Spain is one of these.

How much does it cost to drive to Spain from the UK?

With fuel prices fluctuating, and cars varying wildly in their fuel consumption, your best bet is to plot out a route on Google Maps or similar, see how many miles your desired trip is, and work out the cost of fuel based on how much your car typically uses.

You’ll want to factor in the cost of meals and an overnight stay, too, and again this is ‘how long is a piece of string’ territory. Sleep in your car and eat packed lunches and it’ll cost you buttons, while by contrast some of the most expensive hotel run to €10,000 a night or more.

Are there any good driving roads in Spain?

Yep, plenty, and many have mighty good views as well. Take in the Andalusian tunnels, enjoy the coastal roads by Santander, or just go exploring: chances are you won’t be far from good roads, let alone good food and good scenery.

Knowing the fundamentals of your camera and shooting at the right time of day can help yield some professional-level images.

Sipps Maswanganyi grew up in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a vast wilderness area largely untouched by humans in South Africa. There, he said, “a lion’s roar, a leopard’s calls, and the trumpets of hyenas and elephants were the only music we could dance to.”

Growing up in that environment gave Maswanganyi a unique appreciation for the wildlife. By the time he was four years old, he’d cultivated a friendship with a male lion who lived on the other side of his fence, often lying on the ground so that he could feel the reverberations of the lion’s powerful roar. After he finished college, Maswanganyi decided to become what he calls “nature’s best representative” as a safari guide and wildlife photographer.

For 20 years, Maswanganyi has been guiding in big five wilderness areas, showing his guests where to find animals, including cheetahs, lions, giraffes, and elephants, while also teaching them how best to photograph them. (He’s currently the head safari guide at Cheetah Plains, an entirely solar-powered lodge in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa.)

We asked him for his advice on capturing the best images of wildlife—here are his top tips.

Know your camera

Before departing for a safari trip or wildlife-filled getaway, read your camera manual front to back, and ensure you can manage it in manual settings, not auto. Spend time learning about your camera’s buttons and all their functions. New camera models are programmed with more technology to work in your favor, but it’s important that you know the basics.

Learn about the “light triangle” (ISO, aperture, and shutter) and use manual mode to find out how to balance these. On safari, you will need to be able to master these to achieve clarity and exposure while controlling the depth of field. While you can’t control your environment, you can control the output, so learn to adapt these three controls, and you’re in good shape. If you’re entirely new to photography, take a beginner’s photography course or speak to your local camera shop before your safari, as shooting in manual can be challenging.

If you’re not quite ready to shoot manually, your DSLR camera allows you to shoot in program, aperture, or shutter modes, which are semi-automatic and, when used correctly, can also yield a good result. But don’t let manual mode scare you. With some practice, you’ll know how to control the settings for that special shot that is entirely yours.

Get as much practice shooting as possible before your trip. Take your camera out and shoot whatever and wherever to get comfortable with all its settings and the various elements your environment can present, such as harsh or scant lighting.

Get the right camera and lenses

Use a good-quality, full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera (Maswanganyi uses a Nikon D850). If it’s your first safari, and you’re not ready to invest in or decide on one camera, renting your equipment might be better for you. (Companies like Lensrentals and BorrowLenses have solid lending programs.) A full-frame photo sensor—a digital sensor replicating the size of classic 35mm cameras, as opposed to a crop sensor that produces a tighter field of view—is handy for low-light conditions and night shots, so you won’t need to worry when capturing those leopards and lions after dark.

Also, bring a handful of lenses to pair with your camera. A good-quality fish-eye lens, macro lens (for taking photos very close to a small subject), 70–200mm f/2.8 lens (for shooting midrange subjects), and a good zoom lens 200–500mm with at least f/4 (the aperture, which affects the depth of field and amount of light entering the camera) and higher will do.

Get up and out early

The best animal sightings and wildlife shots happen early in the morning, which is why game drives typically start before sunrise. The night before, make sure to have all your camera gear ready to go and charging. Don’t forget your memory card or extra battery pack if your camera comes with one.

Shooting before sunrise offers the bonus of photographing wildlife backlit against the rising sun, which adds depth to your photos. This is the opportunity to capture images that benefit from golden light, side lighting, and direct light. You can gradually experience the effect of blue light, yellow light, golden light, and other types of changing lighting while sitting in the same position, hitting the same subject but getting different results.

Look for the eyes

When you are eye-to-eye with an animal, your excitement level will rise. It’s an experience you will never forget and is even better when you can capture the wildlife looking directly at you. Taking a portrait of an animal is like taking a portrait of a person. Focus on the eyes.

Be aware of your lighting and where it is coming from. The direction of the light will determine if you’ll need to adjust your settings or ask your guide to reposition your vehicle for the best angle.

Keep your camera focused on the eyes. If your camera has focus tracking or face detection, then it will be easier to focus. You want the eyes to be sharp, for they tell a story and bring your photo to life.

Shoot low, not high

When it comes to angles, low is always better (low to the ground, at an upward angle). Angles can make an animal look bigger and more impressive, enabling a greater silhouette. Considering bringing a monopod (essentially a single-leg tripod)—you can mount your camera to it and lower it to the ground from your seat in the safari vehicle to achieve a leveled shot.

Thanks to the celebrity airport looks and vacation looks, we have all realized the importance of looking fabulous while travelling. In today’s times, where shooting Insta reels and taking selfies is a must-do thing to keep everyone posted about your travel diaries, it is essential to showcase your stylish side!

From what type of fabrics to choose to accessories to flaunt, your travel outfits should be a fine blend of comfort and style! Here are 5 styling tips to ace your travel fashion game:

Pay Attention to the Fabric

Fabric plays a prime role in making sure you look your best and feel comfortable while travelling. Choose outfits that are made of lighter and breathable fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, viscose rayon, Tencel, etc. Easy-to-carry ensemble choices like plain or printed tees, denim shirts, jeans, and shorts make a practical choice for your travel wear. Also, ideally, wear clothes that are wrinkle-resistant which will ensure that you look stylish and presentable even after a long journey!

Layer Your Clothes

When travelling by plane, train, or taking a boat ride, you will instant change in temperature. To beat the cold, you can layer your chosen outfits with layered pieces of clothing like a sweatshirt, sweater, shrug, jacket, and more. Select the layering outfits depending upon the current temperature of your city or the chosen destination for vacay. For example, opt for lighter fabrics like modal when don’t require a warmer jacket or sweater. Plus, you can always remove the same when it feels a little too warm.

Pick Outfits With Pockets

It is better to carry outfits with pockets that come in handy for carrying your phone, money, handkerchief, and more. Pockets add a distinct and fun addition or detailing to clothes. Plain or printed tops, hoodies, jackets, jeans or shorts with pockets look attractive and give a stunning look.

Pick Versatile Outfits

Wear or carry some versatile outfits like a jumpsuit, monochrome co-ord set, kaftan, or jacket with you. Co-ord sets and jumpsuits make a fuss-free and chic option to keep it stylish on vacation. Also, a basic tee and jeans clothing combo can be layered with a shrug or jacket.

Accessorize it Well

Carry essential accessories like a lovely scarf or hat to upscale your travel styling game right. A printed scarf can make a lovely addition to a plain shirt or top. Additionally, you can carry a mini handbag or fanny pack bag to carry essentials like passports, tickets, money, and more.

Also, you can accessorize the chosen outfits with minimal yet striking jewellery pieces like stud earrings, think chains with a pendant, or bead bracelets. Keep accessories to a minimum yet interesting!

“Unlock the secrets of budget travel and learn how to stretch your dollars while exploring incredible destinations around the globe.”

Traveling is a wonderful experience that allows us to explore new destinations, immerse ourselves in different cultures, and create lasting memories. However, the cost of travel can sometimes be a barrier. The good news is that with careful planning and smart choices, you can embark on an exciting journey without breaking the bank. In this article, we present ten essential tips for traveling on a budget, helping you make the most of your adventures while keeping your wallet happy.

1. Research and Plan Ahead

Before setting off on your journey, invest time in thorough research. Look for budget-friendly destinations, affordable accommodations, and cheap flight options. Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts, compare prices, and find the best deals available.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Create a detailed budget that includes all anticipated expenses, such as transportation, accommodation, meals, activities, and souvenirs. Be realistic about your spending limits and stick to your budget throughout your trip. Tracking your expenses will help you make informed decisions and avoid overspending.

3. Travel Off-Peak

Consider traveling during off-peak seasons when prices for flights and accommodations are generally lower. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and a more authentic experience of your chosen destination.

4. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Explore a range of accommodation options, such as hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals, instead of luxury hotels. Websites and apps like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostel world offer affordable alternatives that provide comfort and local experiences at a fraction of the cost.

5. Be Flexible with Transportation

Flexibility with transportation can lead to significant savings. Compare different modes of transport, including buses, trains, and budget airlines, to find the most cost-effective option. Consider overnight journeys, as they can save you money on both transportation and accommodation.

6. Eat Like a Local

Sampling local cuisine is an essential part of any travel experience, but dining out for every meal can add up quickly. To save money, opt for local markets, street food stalls, and affordable eateries where locals dine. This not only helps you stay within your budget but also allows you to savor authentic flavors.

7. Embrace Free and Low-Cost Activities

Research and discover free or low-cost activities and attractions at your destination. Many museums, parks, and cultural sites offer discounted or even free entry on specific days or times. Join walking tours or explore the city on foot to soak up the atmosphere without spending a fortune.

8. Pack Lightly

Traveling with only a carry-on bag not only saves you money on baggage fees but also provides flexibility and convenience during your trip. Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and only bring essential items to avoid unnecessary weight and hassle.

9. Use Travel Rewards and Discounts

Take advantage of travel rewards programs, credit card perks, and loyalty programs to earn points or discounts on flights, accommodations, or activities. Sign up for newsletters and follow social media accounts of airlines and travel companies to stay informed about special offers and promotions.

10. Connect with Locals

Immerse yourself in the local culture by connecting with locals. They can offer valuable insights, recommend hidden gems, and share cost-saving tips specific to their region. Engaging with locals can also lead to authentic and unique experiences that are often free or low-cost.

By implementing these ten essential tips for traveling on a budget, you can embark on unforgettable adventures while keeping your expenses in check. Remember, it’s not about how much you spend, but the enriching experiences and memories you create along the way. Happy travels!