Campervan and motorhome drivers have been warned to check local parking rules before heading to the coast this summer ahead of the busy season.
It comes after research revealed widely different rules for the larger vehicles across the UK, with some areas allowing motorhomes to stay overnight in selected car parks, while others ban the vehicles altogether.
In some places, drivers can park and sleep overnight but are still banned from putting out chairs, tables, awnings or washing lines.
The warning comes as thousands of families head to the coast during the summer holidays for day trips, weekends away and longer breaks.
YourParkingSpace reviewed official council guidance across eight popular UK coastal destinations and found that rules can change between different councils, resorts and even individual car parks.
In the Highlands, designated overnight parking is available for self-contained vehicles at selected car parks between 10pm and 8am.
In Cornwall, self-contained motorhomes can stay overnight between 11pm and 8am in some council car parks. However, other car parks have overnight bans.
Overnight camping and sleeping in vehicles is banned at locations in Brighton, while some central car parks also have height restrictions that could prevent larger vehicles from entering.
Several councils have been implementing more parking restrictions for motorhomes and campervans | GETTY/EAST DEVON COUNCIL
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole ban sleeping or camping overnight on beaches, the seafront, cliffs or in car parks, as drivers risk a fine of up to £1,000.
Larne O’Donoghue, a spokesperson for YourParkingSpace, said: “A seaside break in a campervan should not start with a parking headache.
“Motorhome parking rules can vary significantly between coastal areas. Some places allow selected overnight stays, while others ban sleeping in vehicles altogether or restrict outdoor equipment such as awnings, chairs and washing lines.
“That is where drivers can get caught out, especially if they assume the rules will be the same as the last place they visited.”
Campervan and motorhome season peaks during the summer
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VOLKSWAGENBlackpool has different rules, with overnight sleeping allowed in some designated motorhome parking areas, although drivers are not allowed to set up outdoor equipment such as chairs, awnings or washing lines.
In Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority car parks, sleeping overnight in a vehicle is not permitted.
YourParkingSpace has now advised campervan and motorhome owners to check the exact rules before travelling to avoid being hit with fines and parking tickets.
Motorhomes and campervans have faced several parking and road restrictions in the UK this year | PA
Drivers should find out whether overnight parking is allowed, whether sleeping in the vehicle is permitted and whether outdoor equipment can be used, the expert suggested.
Motorists should also check for restrictions on the size or type of vehicle, as some car parks may not be suitable for larger motorhomes or caravans.
Mr O’Donoghue added: “The safest approach is to check the exact car park before setting off, including whether overnight stays are allowed, whether the vehicle is permitted and what restrictions apply.
“By comparing options, checking restrictions and choosing a space that suits their vehicle and journey, drivers can start their break with more certainty.”