a lot of cars (spain) put the hi-viz vest over the back of the passenger seat, means the cops are less likely to stop you on one of their stop and searches as they can see it.

again though vehicle=car

True enough and my high-vis I bought today says on the label "Put this on before you leave your vehicle" The principle being that you'll be run into from behind in your car while struggling to get it out of the packet and on instead of safely opening the packet and popping the vest on from the grass verge on the other side of the motorway crash barrier.

Read on one travel website that bikes do not require beam converters as the beam is more symetrical than a car so not a legal requirement. Last tour I did, I used black gaffa tape just to make it look like I'd made an effort but didn't bother when just going to Holland for the TT as did my mate. No questions asked at all, even when pulled in for the usual breathalyzer checks by traffic Police.

Bought a really small Gelert 1st Aid kit from a camping shop, paid about £7 I think.

Hi-vis vests are always in the £1 shops and they occasionally have bulb/fuse kits too. I bought one 2 years ago and I've never opened it. The bulbs are probably crap but I'll just buy a bulb at the next fuel stop if I need one. As long as the kit meets the legal requirements, who cares?

Only time I've been asked for documents was in Italy. Followed the rest of the local traffic down a one-way street for a shortcut. See previous posts about mad drivers in Italy. Yeah, yeah, it's no excuse but when in Rome.... I was the only one daft enough to stop for a lone copper on foot. Only wanted to see the V5 and insurance document and I got off with a bollocking. No checks on hi-vis vests, etc.