British drivers risk invalidating their passport when travelling abroad this summer - 'May be refused entry!'

Experts are calling on motorists to ensure they have the correct travel documents this summer

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Felix Reeves

By Felix Reeves


Published: 02/08/2024

- 11:20

Around five million motorists are expected to travel to Europe this summer

Experts have issued an urgent warning to motorists over fears they could see their passports invalidated when towing a caravan on holiday this year.

Data suggests that more than five million Britons will be heading to Europe this summer for their holidays, with some likely to be towing a caravan.


Despite this, motorists are being warned that they face the prospect of having issues at the border with their passports.

Motoring experts have pointed out that passport holders are required to have at least two blank pages available or it could be declared as invalid.

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Following the UK leaving the European Union after the Brexit referendum, people travelling abroad will be issued with entry and exit stamps, meaning the travel documents can fill up very easily.

If Britons are planning to travel around Europe, especially with a caravan, they could see new stamps added frequently, potentially voiding their passport.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said that many travellers heading abroad have seen their passports fill up more quickly since Brexit.

He added: "If you do run out of pages in your passport, you will have to renew your passport sooner than its expiry date, so make sure to keep a keen eye on the remaining empty pages.”

The expert also warned that drivers should not be tempted by websites offering fast shipping or lower prices as they will likely be scams and lead to longer delays and more expensive costs.

Drivers are also being advised to make sure they check up on the latest rules for the countries they are travelling to, as this will help them avoid any nasty surprises.

Many European countries have emissions-based charging schemes that work differently from those found in the UK. This could require them to purchase a badge for their vehicles or register it with their transport authorities before travelling.

Similarly, when travelling at certain points of the year, they can be required to have particular items that can be used in case of emergency or following a car accident.

Wilson continued, saying: "You may also be refused entry to your destination country if your passport is due to expire.

"This is something travellers often overlook, as many will only use their passports a couple of times a year."

The RAC has also urged motorists to check whether they are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a UK sticker, following Brexit law changes.

Rules for IDPs were changed earlier this year meaning motorists will now need to travel to a PayPoint location to get the documents, which are still needed in more than 140 countries.

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IDP permitDrivers can get IDPs from participating PayPoint branches GETTY

Previously, they were available at select Post Office locations, where Britons are still able to renew their driving licences and car tax documents.

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