A new representative survey by the company found that more than half of Hungarians (57%) take at least one car trip longer than 100 kilometers within the country every quarter — yet only about a quarter (27%) have vehicle assistance coverage.

With many families planning short domestic getaways during the fall break, experts say it is essential to prepare for the increased traffic and shifting weather conditions that raise the risk of accidents and breakdowns. According to the Central Statistical Office (KSH), domestic tourism is growing: in October 2024, the number of domestic guests rose by 8.2%, and the number of guest nights increased by 4.2% year-on-year.

The Europ Assistance study found that half of Hungarians between the ages of 18 and 69 travel within the country at least once every three months, and two-thirds do so every six months. Another 28% take at least one domestic trip a year, while 14% travel less often and 8% never travel within Hungary.

Most of these journeys are by car. More than half of Hungarians (57%) drive more than 100 kilometers within the country at least quarterly, and one in three does so monthly. Another third take one to three domestic trips by car per year, while only one in five rarely or never travels such distances by car.

Because of the heightened seasonal risks, motorists are advised to have their cars thoroughly inspected before setting out. As temperatures drop, battery failures, lighting or electrical malfunctions, and lock problems become more common. Tires should also be checked — low pressure or valve issues can lead to punctures — and summer tires should be replaced once average temperatures fall below 7°C. Drivers are also encouraged to carry a spare wheel, reflective vest, lamps, chargers, and spare fuses.

Breakdowns are more likely among older vehicles, which make up a large part of Hungary’s car fleet. “According to our research, nearly half of cars in Hungary (49%) are at least 16 years old, and 34% are between six and 15 years old,” said Gábor Szabolcs Timár, operations director at Europ Assistance.

“The research also showed that only 27% of the population use vehicle assistance services, 14% of whom receive free coverage from a dealership or service center,” he added. “Many still leave things to chance, even though unexpected breakdowns can happen anytime — even on short trips — turning a pleasant autumn outing into a stressful experience. The additional costs and hassle can easily be avoided with preparation and foresight. Services like AutoSOS provide a reliable safety net for those who don’t want a technical issue to ruin their family trip.”

If a breakdown or accident leaves a vehicle immobilized, quick and efficient help is crucial. “If something goes wrong, drivers can submit a request in just a few clicks or call a single number for assistance, available 24/7 both domestically and abroad,” Timár said. “In Hungary, our technicians can reach the scene within an hour to perform on-site repairs or arrange transport to a service station. For even faster service, those experiencing trouble either in Hungary or abroad can also request help online via a dedicated link.”