DRIVERS are being warned about a potential £2,500 fine if they follow a current TikTok trend.
The #carcamping craze now has more than 176 million views on the social media platform, as people look to convert their cars for sleeping in and save money amid the cost of living crisis.
But GSF Car Parts warns by wild-camping in their cars, drivers are running the risk of trespassing, which can lead to a fine of up to £2,500 or even a three-month prison sentence.
The laws differ depending on whether you’re in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
In Scotland, wild camping is legal in most areas, as long as you follow the behaviour set out in the Access Code.
Everywhere else, aside from parts of Dartmoor and the Lake District, you’ll need permission from the land owner before you can park up and spend the night.
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Not doing so can lead to nasty fines. You’ll likely be asked to move at first, but if you don’t, as a first-time offender you’ll probably be given a fine of around £200–£300.
However, if you fail to remove your vehicle from the area when asked, then the landowner may take civil action against you.
If you continue to cause disruption or intimidation to the landowner, then you could be convicted of aggravated trespassing — a much more serious offence which can result in a fine of up to £2,500, or even a three-month prison sentence.
Simon Moore at GSF said: “The most important thing to do before setting off, is to make sure your vehicle is up to the task.
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“As well as keeping it in good condition, you should check out the weather and terrain you’ll be driving in prior to your trip, to ensure that your car can weather them.
“By keeping your car in good condition and personalising the route to minimise issues, you should be able to have an enjoyable holiday.”