Travel Tips For Driving In Malta

If you’re used to driving on the right, then there will be an adjustment period. It might be best to travel using public transport if you’re not accustomed to driving on the left, as it can be something of a shock for the first time.

Carry the necessary equipment

Per the RAC, there are certain items you’re going to need if you’re thinking about driving in Malta, especially if your car is equipped to drive on the right. At the very least, you will need:

• Headlamp converters to prevent dazzling oncoming motorists
• A warning triangle in case your vehicle breaks down

The RAC also recommends that you bring other useful items like: A first-aid kit A reflective jacket A fire extinguisher

All of these could save lives in the event of an accident.

Consider renting a car

There are lots of great car rental services in Malta, so you may not even need to bring your own vehicle. It’s worth considering renting a car if you’re going to be doing a lot of driving and you’d rather not raise your own vehicle’s mileage.

Of course, rental cars come with their own downsides:

• You’ll be paying to rent the car, usually on a daily basis
• The longer you leave it to book your rental, the more you’ll likely end up paying

Make sure to book rentals ahead of time if you want the best rates.

Don’t use your phone

In Malta, using your mobile phone in the car is completely prohibited. According to Saga, that includes the use of hands-free mobile phones, so it’s best just to leave your phone in your pocket or on the passenger seat while you’re driving in Malta.

If you really must answer it, then make sure to pull over before you begin operating the device. You don’t want to incur fees or get in trouble with the Maltese authorities when you’re just there to have some fun.

Take care when driving around locals

As is the case with many countries, local Maltese drivers generally tend to be fairly cavalier when it comes to the rules of their roads. If you’ve driven on UK roads, you’ll know that it’s the same there, and indeed, anywhere; local drivers feel that they’ve mastered the roads and don’t need to rigidly follow the rules.

You should stick to them as best you can, of course, but don’t be surprised if you get cut off at a red light by a local driver who’s got somewhere to be.

Build a detailed itinerary

Malta is a fairly small country, and it’s actually possible to see a huge amount of this picturesque nation in a single day if you’ve got a car. As such, make sure to make yourself a detailed itinerary so that you don’t get overwhelmed by distractions.

You’re going to be severely tempted to look at everything you drive past. If this is your style of holidaying, great; some of the best experiences can be had simply by driving off the beaten path. If you’re more meticulous, though, create an itinerary first so that you can make the most of driving in Malta.

Don’t be afraid to ask for directions

As Malta Uncovered says, street sign coverage in Malta is usually decent, but there are some areas where you may struggle to know exactly where you are.

Don’t be afraid to stop and ask some locals for directions, or to consult Google Maps (pull the car over first!) to better plan your journey.

Whatever you do, make sure that you don’t simply stop or slow down in the middle of the road, as this could inconvenience other drivers and get you in trouble with the Maltese authorities.