Stay Updated: New Low Emission Zones in Europe

In our long journey towards sustainable travel around the world, many European countries have begun to introduce a flood of low emission zones, but many travellers are not up to date on this progress.  

These low emission zones involve different measures in each country to prevent a high amount of road traffic and vehicle emissions. This often involves a fee or form of pass. In France, for example, drivers need to have a ‘Crit Air‘ emission sticker displayed in their vehicle when driving through one of the low emission zones to avoid a €68-€135 fine. 

Despite these big changes being put into action across Europe, many UK drivers planning to travel this summer are not aware that they could be charged for entering low emission zones without being prepared.  

According to a recent survey, a huge 43% of British travellers planning to go to Europe this summer are unaware of low emission zones and their restrictions in popular destinations like France and Spain. Not only are these highly travelled areas for UK citizens in the summer, but they are some of the most likely places for UK travellers to drive while on their holiday.  

52% of the travellers surveyed did not know that there are daily entry fees and permits required in several of their favourite cities, and 58% did not know about requirements to display stickers that display their vehicle’s emission level. 

Out of the people surveyed, 18% also said they have been issued low emission zones fines for breaking the rules of certain zones. Another 47% were also unaware that if they have a paper driving license issued prior to March 31st, 2000, they will need an international driving permit to drive in European countries altogether. 

Staying up to date on potential regulations that could affect you on holiday is vital to protecting your peace of mind.  So don’t forget to check what rules and regulations apply to your holiday either with your trusted member of PTS or on the Foreign Travel Advice page.  

So, if you’re looking forward to your next holiday, don’t wait, book now with a travel business registered with PTS for 100% financial protection through trust. Or, if you’d like assistance choosing one of the lovely PTS members to book with, you can contact PTS directly at 0207 190 9988 or check us out on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.  

And if you’d like to learn more about your financial protection with PTS or how the Package Travel Regulations protect your holiday booking, check out our pages and Travel Advice.