Credit/debit cards, 'phone roaming, vehicle insurance and recovery

Richard's topic (Fuel on 17th June) prompted me to raise this one too.

Don't forget to advise both you credit/debit card banks etc... and mobile 'phone companies that you will be travelling across Europe (France, Belgium, Holland, Luxemburg and Germany).

Most banks and 'phone service providers may terminate service if they spot unusual activety on you account.
One of mine last year would only allow notification of 3 foriegn countries at any one time and wanted me to ring them to let them know I was passing into the 4th and 5th, and then again when returning through the 1st and 2nd etc...

Also, check your vehicle insurance for overseas travel. What used to be the old "Green Card" no longer exists (hasn't for many years) and is "usually" included on most fully comprehensive policies. BUT NOT ALL (especially some specific 4x4 policies) - so check well in advance - not good to be panicing about it during the week before.

Presumably most have taken up on the AA offer for European breakdown cover, for the cost offered for the rally, this is well worth it, paying for a 2 week period of cover on most standard UK cover policies is usually very expensive - depending on who you're with.

Good Advice there! my insurance did not cover and got me in a right arguement a few weeks prior!
Also had a credit card stopped due to using it in frabce one day and germany the next!
All sorted with a phone call while out there but much easier to sort it out over here before you go!

Good advice all round guys

Great advice Nick

Very sound advice, especially the AA cover!!!!

What makes you say that Dave!

And worth getting a euro card from fairfx so as you don't get charged those dreaded bank fees every time!
Ive been using mine for nearly 2 years and accepted at most places in Europe

1st year out didn't bother to check with my bank (Barclays) , so every time i filled up with fuel i got hit for a £5 charge,

Got it all covered. UK debit card, French debit card, mobile used to travelling.............have I missed anything out apart from the tow rope marked "For use on anything other than a Green Oval"?