I have read somewhere that you do not need to fit beam deflectors to projector headlights (when driving abroad)?

This really depends on the car model and technology used.

The projector halogen headlights on my 2014 Skoda Superb have a little lever in each headlight unit to flatten the beam ready to drive abroad. Many models with HID or full LED lights have a tourist mode to adjust the beam pattern - sometimes linked to the satnav to automatically change depending on which country you are in. Some newer cars with simpler LED lights may only have a flat beam so possibly no adjustment required.

Unless it's clear that you have a flat beam when you point headlights at a convenient wall it's probably best to confirm with a dealer what's required. I drive abroad (or did!) a lot so this is always an important question for me - I hate using stickers!

On my Superb it's obvious when you've flattened the beam - it's a very straight line at the top of the light pattern. I always change back in the winter though as on dark nights/mornings the flattened beam really makes a difference to the amount of light on the road and doesn't illuminate signs well.

Edited by Big John on 07/08/2021 at 22:02