Le Shuttle Crossing: Effortless Channel Transit
Le Shuttle is a key link for vehicles crossing the Channel Tunnel, providing a smooth and reliable passage between the UK and France. Unlike traditional ferry services, which can be subject to weather delays and longer boarding times, Le Shuttle offers a streamlined process that takes just 35 minutes from coast to coast. With up to four departures per hour during peak times, it’s no wonder that over 2.6 million cars used Le Shuttle in 2022 alone.For our journey, we chose Le Shuttle for its efficiency and the convenience of staying with Sniffy in our car during the entire crossing. The terminal at Folkestone is well-equipped, with pet exercise areas and facilities to ensure your furry friends are comfortable before embarking. As we drove onto the train, Sniffy seemed unfazed, enjoying the continuity of being in his familiar surroundings.Tip: Book your tickets in advance to secure the best rates and avoid last-minute price hikes. You can do so directly through the Eurotunnel website. Google Maps URL: Folkestone to Calais via Le ShuttleWheels on the Continent: Acquiring a Used Car
Given the expansive nature of our European road trip, acquiring a reliable used car was a priority. Our Citroën C4, purchased in the UK, proved to be an excellent choice for the journey. The car’s compact size made it easy to navigate narrow European streets, while its fuel efficiency helped keep costs down across the long distances we covered.Opting for a pre-owned vehicle allowed us to maintain flexibility in our travel plans. The Citroën C4’s versatility meant we could explore various destinations at our own pace, from bustling cities to serene countryside villages. We ensured the car was fully serviced before departure, with particular attention to tire condition and engine performance, knowing that long stretches of driving awaited us. Statistics: According to the RAC, buying a used car in the UK can save you up to 30% compared to new models, making it a practical choice for extended trips.Driving a UK Car in France and Europe
We needed a Crit’ Air sticker to drive in low emission zones in France. A Crit’ Air sticker is a round sticker you place in the windscreen of your car. It categorizes your vehicle based on the level of emissions it produces. If you’re driving from the UK in a UK-registered vehicle, you won’t be able to buy a Crit’Air emissions sticker in France. You must order your Crit’Air emissions sticker direct from the official French government website and ensure it’s displayed before you leave for France. You cannot buy your Crit’ Air sticker from LeShuttle (formerly Eurotunnel LeShuttle). In 2025, Crit’ Air stickers cost €3.11 + €1.65 postage if you are registering a vehicle outside France and it will take between 10 days and six weeks to arrive in the post. Ours did not arrive in time for departure, and we were often anxious that we were not displaying the sticker on our car; and would have to explain in English that our registration plate is subscribed. However, we learned the stickers were contentious and locals were rebelling against them, with many cars not purchasing the sticker.Also, you will require a UK magnet label for the rear of the car, and to have a safety triangle and hi-vis vest with you.Many European countries (such as Switzerland) require a vignette (toll sticker) for highway use, which can be purchased at border crossings or online.Navigating the Road: Pet Health Papers and Comfort
Traveling with Sniffy, our three-year-old beagle, meant that his health and comfort were top priorities throughout the journey. Before leaving the UK, we obtained all the necessary pet health papers, including a pet passport and an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from our vet. These documents are crucial for smooth border crossings within the EU, especially for pets, and ensure compliance with international travel regulations. Sniffy’s vaccination records, particularly for rabies, were up to date, and we also carried his microchip details and contact information for our vet in the UK. This preparation was key to avoiding any unexpected delays at borders or checkpoints. Tip: Ensure your pet’s microchip is registered in your home country before traveling. This can be a lifesaver if your pet goes missing during your trip. To maintain Sniffy’s comfort during our road trip, we planned regular stops at pet-friendly locations. Our itinerary included visits to parks, rest areas, and dog-friendly cafes, where Sniffy could stretch his legs and enjoy some playtime. These stops not only kept him happy but also gave us a chance to explore local spots off the beaten path. Recommended Pet-Friendly Stops:- Plage de Calais: Just a short drive from the Le Shuttle terminal, this beach is a great first stop for a walk with your dog.
- Parc de la Citadelle in Lille: A perfect spot for a picnic and a stroll, located about an hour’s drive from Calais.
Onward Journey: From Calais to Lisbon
As we continued our journey from Calais to Lisbon, the open roads of Europe unfolded before us, offering a diverse landscape of cultures, languages, and scenery. Each country we passed through—France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, and finally, Portugal—presented unique challenges and rewards.In France, we marveled at the rolling vineyards of Champagne and the historic charm of Strasbourg. Belgium offered a culinary delight in Brussels, where we indulged in waffles and chocolate, much to Sniffy’s approval as he eagerly awaited any stray crumbs. Our drive through the Black Forest in Germany was a highlight, with its dense woods and serene lakes providing a perfect backdrop for a relaxing day trip.
Tip: When driving through multiple countries, be sure to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and toll systems. Many European countries require a vignette (toll sticker) for highway use, which can be purchased at border crossings or online. By the time we reached Lisbon, we had covered over 2,000 kilometers, each with its own set of memories. The flexibility of our used Citroën C4 allowed us to navigate diverse terrains, from the snowy peaks of Switzerland to the sun-soaked beaches of Spain.
Our road trip from the UK to Portugal was an adventure of a lifetime, made even more special by having Sniffy with us every step of the way. The convenience of Le Shuttle, combined with careful planning and a reliable car, ensured that our journey was smooth and enjoyable.Whether you’re planning a similar trip or just looking for inspiration, we hope our experience provides valuable insights. With the right preparation, your European road trip with your furry friend can be just as memorable as ours.
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