Dorset residents driving to Europe this summer need to be aware of new rules, it is warned.

France, Spain and Italy are the three favourite destinations for Brits driving abroad, but new rules across Europe mean it is much easier for local police to stop and fine drivers breaking the laws in their countries.

Dr Debra Williams, CEO and co-founder of tyre comparison site Motokiki said: “The rules of the road are complex in the UK and when you factor in local country laws, driving in Europe can be a daunting prospect. We would urge drivers to make sure they plan their journey carefully and familiarise themselves with local rules to make sure can they don’t fall foul of the law which could severely dent their finances and spoil their holiday."

For example, by law, UK drivers in France must carry certain items in their car. These include a GB sticker, spare headlight bulbs and a high-visibility or reflective jacket. Any drivers caught without these items face an on-the-spot fine of £135.

French law also states that drivers must carry breathalysers in their car. As well as carrying a breathalyser, drivers should be aware that drink driving laws in Spain and France are much stricter than in the UK, with the European countries enforcing a limit of 0.5mg (a small beer) vs. the limit in the UK of 0.8mg (a pint).

As it is compulsory in Austria, France and Germany, drivers must carry first aid kit in their vehicle compartment. Drivers must also carry a warning triangle and at least one reflective jacket within the passenger compartment of the vehicle and must put it on before the driver gets out in an emergency or breakdown situation.

As well as having the right kit, drivers should also be aware of some of the more unusual overseas laws. In Spain, drivers can be fined up to €200 for driving while shirtless and driving in flip-flops is also against the law. In France, it is illegal to drive with headphones on.

In Spain, it is compulsory to carry a spare tyre and the tools to change a tyre including protective gloves, in addition to a warning triangle and reflective jacket. Drivers who wear glasses to drive should also carry a spare pair when driving in Spain.

Some cities may ban certain cars during heatwaves so beware of additional rolling vehicle bans that may be brought in during the summer. The best way to check is to look online for official emissions schemes or local news to see if additional restrictions have been imposed.

Check if your insurance will cover you when driving overseas.This is one of the most overlooked aspects of taking a car abroad as most drivers believe their insurance will offer the same over when driving abroad. Not all insurance policies will offer this cover, so it’s important to check before you head on your trip. It is also important to travel with insurance documents, as this will save a lot of time and hassle should drivers need to make a claim.

Under EU rules, UK car insurance policy provides third-party cover for when you drive within the EU or EEA. UK breakdown cover is rarely valid overseas, so check before you go anywhere and contact your provider to upgrade your cover to Europe.