Yes, in most cases. But before making travel plans check with your car insurance company as policies and terms and conditions vary extensively. Better to sort out the nitty-gritty first than be left in the lurch when you’re overseas.

In general terms, then, most insurers will only extend cover for a limited period of time. Normally, for around a month, though, some will entertain up to 90 days per year so long as trips are of no more than 30 days duration.

Nearly all UK car insurance policies cover the policy holder when driving in EU countries and sometimes further afield too. To enable your policy to do so, you must first obtain a Green Card, the cost of which is normally included within your premium price. The caveats are that this cover is normally for a limited period, usually a month or so, and the insurance company must be contacted if you need an extension. Check, too, before leaving that the level of cover provided is adequate; numerous policies operate on the basis of providing only the minimum standard required by each country, but this can be upgraded at extra cost.