Families planning road trips and staycations this summer are warned to check local overnight parking rules carefully, as illegal wild camping in cars and campervans could lead to hefty fines, according to motoring experts at LeaseLoco.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, sleeping overnight in a vehicle on public land without permission is generally not allowed. This includes many lay-bys, coastal areas, countryside locations and beauty spots often popular with campers.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said many drivers wrongly assume they can simply park up anywhere overnight during a road trip.
“In reality, rules can vary significantly depending on the location, and drivers could face fines or be asked to leave if they are parked on private land or in restricted areas,” he said.
While unauthorised overnight stays are usually treated as trespassing, refusing to move on when asked can escalate into a criminal offence. In some cases, drivers could face fines of up to £2,500 or even prosecution.
Scotland operates slightly differently under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act, which grants broader access rights for traditional camping. However, these rights do not automatically extend to motor vehicles, meaning campervans and cars can still face restrictions depending on location.
Adding to the confusion, many tourist hotspots have introduced additional controls through local bylaws and Public Space Protection Orders. Several popular destinations, including Snowdonia, Scarborough and Southend-on-Sea, are tightening rules around overnight vehicle stays following concerns about overcrowding, littering and pressure on local infrastructure.
Mr Wilmot advised travellers to use designated overnight parking areas and campsites wherever possible, not only to avoid penalties but also to access proper facilities and help protect local environments.
As road trips continue to grow in popularity, responsible touring will become increasingly important, both for avoiding fines and helping preserve access to some of the UK’s most scenic destinations.
Image: Unsplash.
