Left-Hand Traffic - Prepare Yourself and Stay Calm!

Planning a breathtaking vacation to a left-hand traffic country? Don't let the switch from right-hand driving deter you from experiencing a fantastic vacation. Discover how to make your left-hand driving adventure smooth and enjoyable. To ensure that you will conquer the roads with ease, we have a list of useful tips.

Choose an Automatic Rental Car

Renting an automatic car is a wise choice, even if it costs a bit more. This option lets you focus on the road, as there's no need to worry about gear shifting. Simply put the gear in "D" (Drive), keep both hands on the wheel, and navigate with confidence. You can focus 100% on the traffic around you, which is nice in an environment where things work a little differently than at home.

Practice Leads to Proficiency

If you are wedded to manual transmission, take time to practice in a safe environment. Before hitting busy streets, find an empty parking lot to familiarize yourself with your rental car until you no longer feel the urge to go to the right side of the road or look for traffic signs on that side. This will help you get accustomed to driving on the left and enhance your confidence at the wheel.

Additionally a co-passenger or navigation system can be your best component in left-hand traffic countries. They can help you to stay calm while driving on the correct side of the road and provide directions when needed.

Understand the Rules Left-Hand Traffic 

Before embarking on your adventure, familiarize yourself with the traffic rules of the left-hand traffic country you're visiting. Remember, they may not be the same as in right-hand traffic countries. For instance, right-of-way rules can differ, so be prepared.

Stay Away from Peak Traffic Times 

To get used to left-hand driving, it is wise to avoid rush hour traffic. Be attentive to road signs and take note of how local vehicles are parked to enhance your grasp of traffic patterns.

Roundabouts

Navigating roundabouts in a left-hand traffic often goes against our instincts, and may cause us some stress. Remember that traffic on the roundabout still has the right of way. Be aware that you are taking that traffic circle to the left and thus the priority traffic comes from the right. You can make use of a navigation system to guide you through this potentially tricky situation.

Keep in mind that there is a huge list of countries that use the left side for driving. While the information above focuses mainly on examples from England, we advise you to always check the local traffic regulations in the country of rental. Prepare yourself and stay calm. You are not the first person to have this experience!