We recently teamed up with P&O Ferries for a day trip to France, which turned out to be the ideal opportunity for some Christmas shopping—not just for presents but also for some really affordable champagne and cheeses. This was probably one of the easiest trips we’ve ever made to France. We reached the ferry terminal as quickly as we would Gatwick or Heathrow airports, and we didn’t have to deal with security hassles like taking off shoes or sorting out liquids. Just drive up, park, and head upstairs—super simple. Plus, you don’t have to wander around with a big backpack looking for your gate.
Following our blog post, we created a video showing what it’s like to travel to France by ferry, along with a few suggestions on what to do when you arrive.
Still on the fence about why taking the ferry is a great idea? Here are a few reasons:
1. No weight limits on your luggage! You can take as much as you can fit in your car—no restrictions.
2. You can bring your pets along! While not many people travel with cats, lots of people do bring their dogs, so your furry friend can join the adventure too.
3. It’s super comfortable! There’s space to lie down and stretch, lounges serving champagne, duty-free shopping, a restaurant, a bar—the works.
4. Departing from Dover offers a chance to see the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, a view you can’t really appreciate from land.
5. This region of France is dotted with charming towns and villages, making it perfect for a delightful little getaway.
6. And let’s not forget the cheap wine! For many, this alone has been a reason to hop on the ferry to France. Stocking up on your favorite wines can be quite the perk.
7. It’s a fantastic way to link your British road trip to your European adventure.
If you’re planning to take the ferry, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Don’t forget your passport! It’s easy to feel like you’re still at home in the UK, so make sure to have it with you.
2. Remember to get your pet’s passport and immunization certificates if you’re bringing them along.
3. If you’re renting a car, let the rental company know you’ll be taking it abroad. They’ll provide an EU certificate in the car.
4. With free roaming across the EU, feel free to explore new villages and towns, knowing you can rely on Google Maps for navigation. There are quite a few lovely spots in this part of France—reach out if you need any suggestions.
There you have it! Another fantastic travel option that might help you see even more of Europe soon! 😊
