Our tips for a successful self-drive holiday

Self-drive made easy

These two videos from Eurotunnel LeShuttle show just how simple the check-in process is at the terminal...

Travel with Eurotunnel LeShuttle FlexiPlus

Our ski holidays include a return Eurotunnel LeShuttle crossing for a standard car and we give you a free upgrade to the premium FlexiPlus service, except at some school holiday weeks.

^{*Our ski holidays include a return Eurotunnel LeShuttle crossing for a standard car and we give you a free upgrade to the premium FlexiPlus service, except at some school holiday weeks.}

Pack everything you need

Taking the car to the Alps instead of flying is far more convenient in terms of luggage! Not only are you able to travel door to door without any transfers, long check-in processes or waiting for hours in airport lounges, you also don't have a limit on your luggage! 

You can pack all manner of things for your break in the French mountains. Take as much or as little as you need (including your skis/snowboard, ski boots, sport/leisure equipment, all at no extra cost). So all your home comforts can come with you - including your slow-cooker (to make self-catering a breeze), and your children's favourite toys! 

Travelling after 1/1/21? Find out what documents you'll need to drive in France.

Plan your route

This is vital for a smooth journey to the Alps by car. Some of our team have driven to the Alps and highly recommend using navigation apps such as Waze, which let you know if there are any hold-ups on the way. 

To make things even easier you can sign-up online for an automatic toll payer, meaning you drive straight through fast lane of the tolls without having to queue up and pay. The Emovis tag is useful as you can use it any time you drive in France.

Break up the journey

If you're facing a quite a long journey, with a bit of drive before you get to the Eurotunnel LeShuttle terminal, you might want to stop off at a hotel on the way to break up the drive. Or you can extend your holiday! If you fancy turning the drive into more of a road trip, you can include overnight stops in some pretty destinations in France.

We have a number of recommended stops which are in convenient locations on the way to the French Alps. This includes hotels in Reims and Troyes, but also our new en-route escapes concept. A great way to make the most of your time in France, these special experiences allow you to explore more of France and offer a sense of escapism, whilst still being conveniently located just a short drive from the main routes from Calais to the Alps. Ideal for prolonging your trip and elevating your journey!

Stock up on your favourite French flavours

A major perk of any holiday in France has to be the food and drink! A holiday in the French Alps is no exception with a number of delicious regional dishes and local products (did we mention the cheese?!)

You can easily stop at one of the larger supermarkets on the way to your self-catered apartment, saving you time (and money) on shopping in the resort. There's also the added bonus of being able to stock up on all your favourite French flavours, including wine, croissants etc. on your journey back home!

Prepare for the weather

If you are planning on a ski drive holiday this winter, then we recommend preparing for the weather. This includes ensuring that your vehicle can handle potentially icy/snow-covered roads. This is easily solved by making sure you have either snow tyres, snow socks, or snow chains. 

You can read all about snow chains and how to fit them in our useful blog post too!

Keep the kids entertained

If you're travelling as a family, driving to the Alps is a great option over flying. A self-drive holiday gives you the flexibility to take whichever route you like, stopping for breaks when you need to, and you can remain comfortable in your own space. 

From some of our team's experience, driving to the Alps allows children to get really excited about the holiday to come, as their surroundings change along the journey. We have also put together a guide with ideas to keep the kids entertained during the drive.