Each country has different rules on mandatory protections: this is where you have to wear a lot more than the helmet when you go on a motorcycle.
In the various European countries, there are different provisions of the Highway Code in force for drivers of two-wheeled vehicles. To date, Italy appears as one of the least regulated states with the sole obligation to wear a helmet in the saddle. While discussing the approval of stricter rules for bikes and motorcycles, here are the main differences between the major European states and what you need to know if you are traveling on a motorcycle outside of Italy.
France
In France, there is a strict system of rules on mandatory equipment for motorcyclists. There is an obligation, for drivers and passengers of motorcycles and scooters, to wear motorcycle gloves. It does not matter if you are driving a maxi-enduro or a 1980 Vespasian 125, you are obliged to wear gloves that are summer or winter, whether the journey is long or short. But be careful, because gloves must be EU-approved. The French law also provides for the obligation to wear an approved reflective jacket (UNI) EN-471 or EN-1150.
Germany
The mandatory equipment for those traveling on the Teutonic roads is prescription glasses or spare lenses for those who have the prescription for driving as for the car and helmet required for driver and passenger.
Spain
In Spain, the use of helmets is compulsory only for motorcycles with a displacement of more than 125 cc and there is no requirement for other protective clothing.
UK
In England, there are no real mandatory equipment, only recommendations for the reflective jacket with reflective tapes, first aid kit, and light bulbs. Curiously, the helmet is not mandatory for the passenger in the sidecar. In the case of a motorbike-tourist wishing to enter England, the helmet must be of a model conforming to British law, but if you want to visit the United Kingdom, be careful to drive on the right side. At the moment it is not known whether after the Brevity the United Kingdom intends to go back to homogenization its own helmets or if it will continue to adopt the ECE legislation.
Austria
In Austria, there is an obligation to wear a helmet for driver and passenger while it is only recommended to wear a reflective vest when riding.
Portugal, Slovenia, Lithuania, and Croatia
Slovenia, Lithuania, and Croatia require the use of helmets in motorcycles and scooters but also that those who are in the saddle as a passenger are at least 12 years old. In Portugal, in addition to the use of the mandatory case, the age threshold falls to 7 years to be able to ride as a passenger.
Holland
In Holland to drive a motorcycle or moped over 50cc, you must be at least 18 years old. Having said that the use of the helmet, discounted for those who go in motion, is also extended to light quadriceps if they are not equipped with safety belts.
Finland
In Finland, there are no special requirements for protections beyond the helmet, which even becomes mandatory only on motorcycles and mopeds over 50 cc.
Delegation to driving
The fact that many other countries of the European Union are not mentioned does not mean that at least the helmet is not mandatory in motion, while other prescriptions may be necessary. For example, in many countries, although it is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to have a reflective jacket and a proxy to drive the motorcycle owned by a third party (if borrowed) authenticated by a notary. On the ACI website, you can find other rules and advice for traveling in Europe.