Britons are being warned of hefty fines when travelling in their motorhomes this summer, as experts call on drivers to prepare.
Motorhome enthusiasts planning French holidays face substantial penalties if they travel without mandatory anti-pollution permits.
The Crit’Air vehicle stickers became essential after France expanded low emission zones to all cities exceeding 150,000 residents earlier this year.
Motorists caught without the appropriate documentation risk financial penalties surpassing £350.
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Motorhome owners are being warned when travelling abroad this summer
The permits cannot be purchased upon arrival in France, making advance preparation crucial for holidaymakers.
Insurance experts have issued alerts to British travellers about this requirement, emphasising the importance of securing the correct paperwork before departure to avoid disrupting vacation plans.
Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at insurance specialist Safeguard, highlighted the significance of these changes.
He said: “At the start of this year, every city in France with a population of more than 150,000 introduced a low emission zone, or ZFE (zone à faibles émissions), to help reduce pollution.
GETTY | The Crit’Air stickers denote the emissions output of a vehicle across France “For peace of mind, it’s vital that holidaymakers travelling through France in their motorhome have bought the relevant anti-pollution vehicle sticker, or Crit’Air, before they set off to prevent them from picking up potential fines of more than £350 along the way.”
The French government offers Crit’Air permits through its Ministry of Ecological and Solidarity Transition website for €3.70 (£3.21), whilst alternative providers like Tollwayr charge £16.54.
The system comprises six colour-coded categories corresponding to vehicle emission levels, with authorities determining the appropriate classification based on submitted documentation.
Processing typically requires five to ten working days, making timely applications essential for summer travel plans.
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British residents must complete their purchases before crossing the Channel, as the permits remain unavailable for purchase within France.
“To successfully navigate French low emission zones in your motorhome, plan your routes in advance and familiarise yourself with the designated low emission vehicles and zones,” Sheppard advised.
Motorists must carry comprehensive documentation beyond the Crit’Air permit when travelling through France.
Essential paperwork includes valid passports, vehicle logbooks (V5C), driving licences, MOT certificates and insurance policy copies.
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Emissions zones can be found across France
British vehicles require UK identification stickers rather than outdated GB markings.
French regulations mandate carrying fluorescent safety jackets and warning triangles, with non-compliance constituting a legal violation.
Sheppard recommended consulting Urban Access Regulations in Europe for detailed local requirements.
“It’s crucial for owners to be aware of and comply with the enforcement measures in place to avoid penalties and contribute to cleaner air,” he noted.
