United Kingdom Road Trip Guide

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Introduction

Embarking on a self-driving adventure through the United Kingdom offers an unparalleled way to explore its diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming villages at your own pace. From the bustling streets of London to the serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the UK is a treasure trove of scenic routes and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This guide will provide you with essential tips, must-visit destinations, and practical advice to ensure your road trip is both enjoyable and unforgettable. Buckle up and get ready to experience the best of the UK from the comfort of your own car!

Car Rental Tips

Book in Advance

Generally, we recommend that you make your reservation one month in advance so that you could choose the desired vehicle and date.

If you proceed directly to the car rental store without a booking, it is likely that the car you need might be unavailable.

If you are already a QEEQ diamond member, you only need 1$ to freeze your booking and make the rest of the payment before pick-up, which does not affect your credit card limit.

Required Documents

Passport, Driver’s License, IDP (Optimal), Credit Card

International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, which allows you to drive legally in countries that need one.

If it is inconvenient for you to apply an IDP, generate a free driver’s license translation on QEEQ.com (Japanese site only).

Tips: Please be aware that most rental companies require drivers to have held their license for at least one year. Additionally, some companies have age restrictions, and drivers under a certain age may need to pay a young driver fee.

Other Essentials to Consider

Car Phone Mount

As UK law prohibits the use of mobile phones while driving, having a phone mount in your car is highly recommended.

Child Seats

UK regulations require children to use appropriate car seats, or you could face significant fines. You can easily add a child seat to your booking on the rental car order page.

Car Choices

The choice of your car depends largely on the duration of your trip, passenger number, luggage amount and road conditions.

City Driving for small groups (1-3 passengers)

If you are a couple, or travel with a friend or two, or if you travel alone, a reasonably priced small car would be a good choice.

Compact size cars have 4 to 5 seats. We recommend sparing one passenger capacity so you could relax and have more space.

4 to 5 passengers including children and elderly

Medium and large size cars are recommended. These models could still possess a fair mount of space with 2 to 3 suitcases. SUVs are suitable for hybrid road conditions. Eco-friendly cars such as the Prius could save your spend on gasoline. Choose what you need giving you peace of mind on long trips.

Traveling in a group of 6 or more

It would be a wonderful experience to choose a van for everyone to have his or her own seat. These models accommodate a passenger capacity from 7 to 12 people. While it is noticeable that large cars cannot make quick and sharp turns. So we recommend renting two small or medium-sized cars if you spend a lot of time driving through towns.

Online Booking Process

We are endeavoring to make your booking as convenient as possible. Enter our website QEEQ.COM, log in, enter the required information, and follow the instructions, you are free to rent your desired car.

Insurance

What Insurances Are Available?

*For Autopilot Cars:

Insured: Protection for the person renting the car, including passenger accident insurance and personal accident insurance (PAI). This includes the personal safety of the driver, passengers, and their personal belongings.
Automobile Insurance: protection for the vehicle of the renter. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is one example.
Third-party Insurance: insurance that protects third parties other than the renter and the car rental company. Basic Third Party Liability (BTL) insurance, etc.

International car rental bookings will include the basic insurance required for car rentals: Vehicle Damage Coverage, Theft System, and Third Party Liability Insurance.

The deductible is the maximum amount of money you’re liable for in the event your rental car is damaged or stolen as long as you follow the conditions of your rental agreement. For example, the deductible is 1000 dollars, if the damage to the rented car is less than 1000 dollars, the customer pays; if the damage is more than 1000 dollars, the customer pays up to 1000 dollars; and the store’s insurance company pays for the part exceeding 1000 dollars.

Many travelers want more comprehensive coverage and purchase additional insurance. Personnel, vehicle and third-party coverage varies by insurance type. Here are some examples of common types of insurance (note: more checks means more coverage):

When and How to Purchase Insurance

There are two ways to obtain insurance: one is to purchase insurance when booking the car online; the other is to purchase insurance at the local store where the car is rented when picking up the car.

Generally, insurances provided by rental car companies usually has narrower coverage, higher premiums, so purchasing insurance online when booking the car is highly recommended.

How to Choose Insurance

If you are traveling with limited budget, it is better to choose the kind of insurance policy with the most comprehensive coverage. The main reasons are:

Repairing fee for the car would probably be higher abroad.
In case of an accident, the medical cost and compensation are very high.
The wider the coverage, the less the troubles you would deal with, which saves tons of time and energy.

Taking automobile insurance as an instance, comparing to common insurance policies, the most comprehensive insurance coverage, including glasses, tires, chassis protection, and considerations for special road conditions such as sand and rocks, is very necessary, but basic insurance of car rental companies usually does not include full coverage as such.

Picking Up the Car

Check Before Departure

Before proceeding to the car rental shop, make sure you have brought with you all necessary documents for picking up the vehicle, and two international credit cards is recommended to ensure that there is enough credit limit for pre-authorization.

Proceed to the Car Rentals

If there is a pickup store nearby, you could just walk there, following signs for airport rental cars.

If the rental car center is far away, there is usually a free shuttle bus bound for the rental car center. Shuttle buses run every 10 minutes approximately, so take the bus when you see the logo of your car rental company.

If the shuttle is not available, you can contact the car rental company and wait for staff member to pick you up at designated location. In case you have difficulty communicating with the store staff, please call QEEQ and we will assist you in English or other languages.

Inspect the Car

When you receive your reserved vehicle, inspect the bodywork for damage. At that time, it’s a good idea to document the entire process with your smartphone camera or take a picture of the dashboard. Because if you forgot to check the condition of your vehicle before departure, you may be charged for wronged damage repairs when you return it.

Payment

Payment is due on the day of the rental unless you are paying online or purchasing a tour package.

Insurance is usually included in the rental price, but some car rental companies offer paid options for more comprehensive coverage.

Last but not least, keep all contracts and documents safe for possible further usage. Once you have received your keys, check the seat heights, mirror positions, secure child seats, and then you are ready to go!

Traffic Rules and Signs

Cross-Border Travel Tips

When booking your rental car, make sure to select the option for “Cross-Border Travel” to see if the vehicle is permitted to be driven into other countries.

Important Tips:

When you pick up your rental car, inform the staff that you plan to drive across borders. If you don’t, your insurance might become invalid once you leave the country.
Cross-border fees need to be paid at the local rental office after you cross the border. Be sure to confirm the exact costs with the staff at the local office.

If the car you want to rent isn’t allowed for cross-border travel, it could be due to the rental company’s policies or restrictions on that specific vehicle model. In such cases, try choosing a different rental company or a different vehicle model.

Traffic Rules

Drive on the Left

In the UK, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road. This might be different from what you’re used to, so take some time to adjust. Remember, the wipers and turn signals are on opposite sides compared to right-hand drive cars. Be cautious about drifting left and always overtake on the left. With a bit of practice, you’ll get the hang of it.

Pedestrian Priority

Pedestrians always have the right of way. Make sure to stop and let them cross.

Seat Belts

Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt, including those in the back seats. Children under 12 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters must be in a child seat.

Use of Headlights

Even during the day, you are required to use low beam headlights.

No Phone Use

Using your phone while driving is prohibited, even when stopped at traffic lights or in traffic jams. Hands-free devices like Bluetooth are allowed.

Respect Learner Drivers

Cars with a green “P” plate indicate a new driver with less than a year of experience. Keep a safe distance from these vehicles.

Right of Way

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Understanding and respecting right of way is crucial. Key points to remember: yield to straight-moving traffic when turning, give way to main roads from side roads, and yield to vehicles already in a roundabout. UK drivers strictly follow these rules, so make sure to do the same to avoid accidents.

Signs

STOP Sign

When you see a STOP sign, you must come to a complete stop for at least 3 seconds, even if the road appears clear. Only proceed when it is safe to do so.

Give Way Sign

These signs are typically found where a minor road meets a major road. Slow down and be prepared to stop, giving priority to other vehicles and pedestrians. If there are pedestrians, come to a full stop and do not proceed until they have crossed completely. Pay special attention to zebra crossings, especially those with flashing yellow lights, where you must stop and let pedestrians cross.

Roundabout Sign

The UK has many roundabouts, and there are two key rules to follow:

Slow down before entering and yield to traffic coming from the right. If there are no vehicles, you can proceed but still enter cautiously.
If you miss your exit or are in the wrong lane, do not stop or reverse. Simply go around the roundabout again to correct your path.

Speed Limit Signs

Speed limits in the UK are in miles per hour (mph). The typical limits are:

70 mph (about 110 km/h) on motorways and dual carriageways
60 mph (about 100 km/h) on single carriageways
30 mph (about 50 km/h) in built-up areas

The UK enforces speed limits strictly, and fines for speeding can be substantial.

Congestion Charge Sign

In London, a congestion charge of £15 applies from Monday to Friday between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Weekends are free. Ensure you pay the charge if you enter the zone. You can pay online at www.tfl.gov.uk either in advance or by the next day. Failure to pay can result in a fine of approximately £160 (about $200, £1≈$1.25).

Other Common Signs

Fines and Traffic Violations

Strict Penalties and High Fines

The UK enforces strict penalties for traffic violations, with fines ranging from £20 to £500 (approximately $25 to $625, £1≈$1.25). Common violations include not stopping at STOP signs, speeding, and illegal parking.

Handling Fines

Dealing with fines can be complex. If the rental company pays the fine on your behalf, they may charge a service fee. If they don’t, you’ll need to pay the fine yourself to avoid late fees.

How to Pay Fines

If you receive a fine, follow the instructions provided. Common payment methods include:

Online Payment: Visit the payment website, enter the required information, and pay with a credit card.
Phone Payment: Call the designated number and pay with a credit card.
In-Person Payment: Go to the specified location to pay.
Check or Postal Order: Send a check or postal order as instructed.

If a traffic camera captures your violation and you don’t receive a physical ticket, the rental company will contact you, charge your credit card, and provide a receipt. Pay promptly to avoid late fees—fines are often reduced by half if paid within 14 days but can double if not paid within 28 days.

Preparation and Prevention

Before your trip, review your route for toll roads, bridges, and common traffic violations. Being informed can help you avoid fines. If you do receive a fine, pay it as soon as possible to avoid additional charges.

No Violations During Rental

If you have no traffic violations during your rental period, your deposit will typically be refunded to your credit card within a month.

Road Conditions and Toll Payments

Road Conditions

Traffic Flow

One of the key features of UK traffic is the separation of vehicles and pedestrians. In cities, there are primarily motor vehicle lanes with few dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists must use the same lanes as cars, so be cautious and give them space. Major intersections often use roundabouts, which help keep traffic flowing smoothly.

Clear Signage

Road signs in the UK are very clear, with well-marked signs at all intersections, regardless of the road size.

Narrow Roads

Some roads in the UK are narrower and have more curves compared to those in other countries. Many areas have single-lane roads with passing points. Drive carefully and be prepared to yield.

Toll Roads

Most motorways in the UK are free, with only three toll locations in England. The M6 Toll is the only tolled motorway, and the other two tolls are for bridges: the Severn Bridge and the Second Severn Crossing, both located between England and Wales. When planning your route, check for toll roads and set your GPS to avoid them if desired. If you can’t avoid them, simply follow the payment instructions.

How to Pay Tolls

Tolls can be paid manually or electronically, with fees varying by vehicle size. For cars, the standard toll is around £5.50 (about $6.88, £1 ≈ $1.25), with a discounted rate of £1.50 (about $1.88, £1 ≈ $1.25) from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Fueling

Fuel Prices

UK petrol stations typically offer two types of fuel:

Diesel: Usually indicated by black nozzles.
Unleaded Petrol: Usually indicated by green nozzles.

There are also variations like Regular and Super Unleaded/Premium Diesel, which offer better performance and are more environmentally friendly but cost more.

Which Fuel to Use?

Refer to your car’s fuel cap or manual for the correct type of fuel. If unsure, ask the rental staff when picking up the car. If you accidentally use the wrong fuel, contact the rental company immediately for assistance.

Self-Service Fueling

Most UK petrol stations are self-service and accept cash or credit cards. The process is simple:

Park
Turn off the engine
Select the nozzle
Refuel
Note the pump number
Lock your car
Pay at the counter

Fueling Tips

Fuel consumption is measured in MPG (miles per gallon) rather than liters per 100 kilometers.
Fuel stations can be sparse and more expensive along highways and in national parks, so fill up before long trips.

Parking Guidelines

Where to Park

Public Car Parks

Most car parks charge a fee. There are two main types:

Pay and Display: Park, pay at the machine, and display the ticket on your dashboard.
Pay on Exit: Your license plate is scanned upon entry, and you pay at a machine before leaving.

Street Parking

Street parking often has time restrictions. Check the signs for details. For example, a sign might indicate parking is allowed from 9:30 AM to 6 PM for up to 2 hours, with no return within 4 hours. Pay at the nearby machine.

Park & Ride

In larger cities, Park & Ride facilities offer free parking for up to 72 hours. Buses from these lots take you into the city center. This is a convenient option to avoid city traffic and parking hassles.

Where Not to Park?

Do not park in disabled spots, building entrances, near fire hydrants, or bus stops unless permitted.

Double yellow and red lines indicate no parking or stopping.

Permit holder and resident-only spots are reserved for locals with permits.

How to Pay for Parking

In cities, parking fees apply during weekdays, with free parking typically available on weekends and evenings (6 PM to 7:30 AM). However, this can vary by location; some city centers may offer free parking after 7 PM, while others may start charging at 8 AM.

Parking Lot Fees

Parking lots generally charge around £4-5 per hour (about $5.00-$6.25, £1 ≈ $1.25). You can pay with cash or credit card. There are two main payment methods:

Street Parking Meters

Street parking meters typically charge £2-4 per hour (about $2.50-$5.00, £1 ≈ $1.25). You can pay with MasterCard/Visa credit cards or coins. The process is simple:

Insert coins or swipe your card.
Select the duration.
Confirm the payment.
Print the ticket and place it on your dashboard.

Parking Tips

Plan your parking in advance to save time and money.
Use large paid car parks in cities and free lots in smaller towns.
Avoid restricted areas.
Do not leave valuables in the car to prevent theft.

Accident Handling

If you are involved in a traffic accident, do not panic. Check whether the passengers are injured, help yourself and seek help from passersby. Emergency contacts are available at any time.

Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance): 999
Embassy Numbers by Country: https://www.embassypages.com/
Roadside Assistance Numbers:

Apex Auto Recovery & Transportation Limited: 0730 1977207

TURO: +44 808 164 1454

London Recovery Service: +44 7921 857946

You can also call your car rental company:

ARNOLD CLARK: +44 203 0317 638

AVIS: 03445446000

Allegiance Mobility Group: 3301188341 / 447534179119

Budget: 03445444600

DRIVALIA: +44 2031300448

Europcar: +44 (0) 3713843410

GREEN MOTION: 02086 197000

Hertz: 08433093009 / +44 796730490

Keddy by Europcar: +44 (0) 3713843410

Routes: 443713843410

SIXT: +44-2070188246

SURPRICE RENT A CAR: 00443300949033/004407378851746

U-SAVE: 02086 197000

Here are the steps to handle different types of accidents:

Minor Collisions

Ensure everyone’s safety.
Move the vehicle to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic.
Call 999 to report the accident.
Take photos or videos of the vehicle’s condition.
Have the police document the accident and keep the accident report.
Contact the rental company and your insurance provider.

Vehicle Break-Ins or Theft

Call 999 to report the incident.
Have the police document the incident.
File an insurance claim.
Verify the information.
Receive compensation.

Vehicle Breakdown

Open the car’s trunk and hood.
Hang a white object on the door handle to signal for help.
Call the rental company.
The rental company will dispatch staff for towing or repairs.
If the rental company cannot resolve the issue, ask the police for towing assistance. Repair costs can be high, so having full insurance is important.

Car Return Process

Important Reminders

After your enjoyable road trip, it’s essential to return the vehicle on time. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the 24-hour customer service hotline.

Car Return Tips

Refuel Before Returning

If your rental agreement requires a full tank upon return, make sure to refuel within 5 kilometers of the drop-off location and keep the receipt to show the rental staff.

Keep the Car Clean

Return the car in a clean condition to avoid cleaning fees. Note that smoking in the car may also result in additional charges.

Reconcile the Fee

When you return the car, the staff will inspect it and provide a final invoice. Carefully review the invoice and address any discrepancies immediately or contact customer service for clarification.

Keep the Contract and Document

Retain the rental agreement and receipts after returning the car for future reference.

Early or Late Return

Early Returns

Returning the car early usually does not result in a refund for unused days.

Late Returns

If you need to return the car late, call the rental location in advance to get approval and confirm any additional charges.

After-Hours Returns

If you can’t return the car during business hours, check if the rental location allows after-hours returns. If permitted,

Park in the designated area.
Lock the car.
Take photos of the fuel gauge, odometer, and car exterior.
Drop the keys in the key/drop-off box.

Note that you are responsible for the car until the rental location reopens. To avoid issues, it’s best to return the car when staff are present.

Help after Trip

Traffic Citation

Unexpected Charges After Returning Home

If you notice unexpected charges on your credit card after returning home, it might be due to traffic violations that the rental company paid on your behalf. These charges often include an additional administrative fee from the rental company, making them higher than the original fine. If you’re unsure about the violation, contact the rental service’s customer support for assistance.

Traffic violations in the UK are strictly enforced and can be costly, so it’s advisable to adhere to all traffic regulations.

Methods for Paying Fines

If you receive a fine while still in the UK, follow the instructions on the ticket. Common payment methods include:

Online Payment: Visit the specified website, enter the required information, and pay with a credit card.
Phone Payment: Call the designated number and pay using a credit card.
In-Person Payment: Pay at the specified location.
Check or Postal Order: Send payment via check or postal order.

If a traffic camera captures your violation but you don’t receive a physical ticket, the rental company will charge your credit card and provide a receipt. It’s crucial to pay promptly; fines are often reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days but can double if not paid within 28 days.

Before your trip, review your route for toll roads and potential violations to avoid surprises. If you receive a fine, pay it as soon as possible to avoid additional late fees.

No Violations During Rental

If there are no traffic violations during your rental period, the deposit will typically be refunded to the primary driver’s credit card within a month.

Insurance Claim

If you bought a full coverage insurance, you would receive a fast claim settlement. The following documents should be prepared:

Passport
Driver’s License
Credit Card Checkback History
The Car Rental Contract
Car Damage Deduction Bill

For more detailed information, check the terms and conditions of insurance company:

https://www.qeeq.com/term?info=axa_policy&browser_open=1

Unknown Charges after Trip

If you received an unexpected deduction when you return to your home country, it might be that your violation fee is paid by the car rental company, but usually the deduction amount will be more expensive than the violation fee because that includes the management fee charged by the car rental company. If you don’t know what the violation was, you can contact our customer service for help.

Classic Routes

The United Kingdom, once the mighty British Empire, offers a rich cultural heritage and diverse experiences. From the picturesque countryside to the vibrant cities of London and Manchester, the UK has something for everyone. Discover the academic prestige of Oxford and Cambridge, enjoy a football match in Manchester, catch a West End musical in London, and wander through royal gardens and historic castles. This journey provides a deep dive into the UK’s past and present. Plan for a 13-16 day adventure, with a suggested itinerary covering 13 days.

London

London is a city where history meets modernity. At the British Museum, you can explore a vast collection of artifacts from around the world, from Egyptian mummies to Chinese antiques, all for free. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and experience the regal atmosphere. Visit the Gothic Revival masterpiece of Westminster Palace and Big Ben, the iconic symbol of London. Tower Bridge, spanning the Thames, offers a glimpse into its mechanical workings, and if you’re lucky, you might see it open for passing ships. The London Eye, a 135-meter-tall Ferris wheel, provides the best panoramic views of the city. For fans of Sherlock Holmes, the museum at 221B Baker Street recreates the detective’s living quarters, making it a must-visit.

London to Oxford

On your way to Oxford, stop by Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the Queen and the largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore its opulent state rooms and St. George’s Chapel. Next, visit Stonehenge, the prehistoric monument on Salisbury Plain, and marvel at the mystery of these ancient stones. Finally, arrive in Oxford, home to one of the world’s top universities. Wander through its historic colleges, including the dining hall that inspired Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, and soak in the academic atmosphere.

Birmingham to Liverpool to Manchester

In Birmingham, visit Victoria Square, surrounded by 19th-century architecture, including the Town Hall and Council House. This vibrant square is a blend of history and modernity. In Liverpool, explore the majestic Liverpool Cathedral, the largest in the UK and the fifth largest in the world. Its soaring interior and choral music create a serene atmosphere. In Manchester, tour Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, one of the most famous and beloved football clubs in the world. Experience the excitement of the stadium and learn about its storied history.

Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park is a haven for nature lovers. Windermere, the largest lake in England, is home to a variety of wildlife, including the goldeneye duck and the unique Windermere char fish. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the lake and its surroundings. For families, The World of Beatrix Potter brings the beloved stories of Peter Rabbit to life in a charming, interactive setting.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the cultural heart of Scotland, is dominated by the imposing Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano. This symbol of Scottish heritage offers stunning views of the city and hosts the annual Military Tattoo in August. Calton Hill, with its historic monuments, provides the best vantage point for sunrise and sunset views. Princes Street, known as the “best street view in the world,” is lined with shops and bordered by lush green spaces and the Princes Street Gardens. The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, is steeped in history and surrounded by the scenic Holyrood Park.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a perfect blend of academia and nature. The University of Cambridge, one of the world’s top universities, boasts nearly 800 years of history and numerous Nobel laureates. Explore its many colleges and immerse yourself in its scholarly atmosphere. The River Cam, which winds through the city, offers picturesque views and the opportunity for a leisurely punt. The Bridge of Sighs, located within St John’s College, is a beautiful and iconic structure that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Useful Website and Numbers

United Kingdom’s official tourism website:

The Official Website For UK Tourism | VisitBritain

Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999
Roadside Assistance Numbers: