This date night idea could land you with a £2.5k fine

Having a car is all very well and good - until you get hit with unexpected maintenance expenses or fines. We’ve already spoken about the £1,000 fine that drivers over 70 could face if they don’t fulfil this criteria, and the £100 fine that any sort of dodgy parking will get you in this city. Now, we are looking into a popular February activity that could see you fined £2.5k in the UK.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and many couples are starting to put together their plans for the special event. However, there’s one trend that’s been doing the rounds on social media which could leave you over £2k out of pocket. Not how you probably envisaged the day panning out. Here’s how to avoid running into trouble as you celebrate.

The Valentine’s trend

It is tricky to come up with new and refreshing ideas to celebrate Valentine's day. Thankfully, with the rise of TikTok, people are able to share their thoughts about how best to spend the 14th with a partner. The trend involves - predictably - quite a lovely romantic night for couples across the UK. The idea is that you and your partner grab your cosiest blankets and pack your favourite snacks into the car before driving off to some scenic destination to enjoy an intimate car camp-out. You pick a spot with a view and star gaze with your loved one in the comfort of your own vehicle. We know where your mind may be going with this one, but the risk of a fine remains a fairly innocent subject.

The trend is called ‘car date night’ and videos detailing these Valentine's preparations have received over one billion views on the platform. Couples are really going all-out, creating playlists and quizzes and even packing boardgames to take with them on their car date.

The £2.5k fine

Couples the world over are being inspired to try this cost-effective idea, especially given that the rise in cost of living has ruled out more expensive date nights for many across the UK. However, the care sale site Auto Trader has warned Brits that this cute plan could end in disaster.

In the UK, camping out on land without the owner’s express permission could lead to a fine of £2,500. You even risk getting arrested or having your vehicle seized if you are unlucky. Another thing to bear in mind: if you are recording or snacking while driving, you could also be hit with fines and penalties. That's just not what you want on this day of romance.

As Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Auto Trader, put it:

This time of year is, of course, a time to enjoy the company of your nearest and dearest and what better way than a creative new date night idea. However, if the date you have in mind involves your car, it is important to practise caution this Valentine’s Day.

The message is clear: think carefully before you dive into your own car date night.

Read more:

⋙ Warning for drivers who risk £2,500 fine, here's how to avoid it

⋙ Driving under the influence: This prescription medication could cost you your driving privilege

⋙ This is how much money you should have in your savings account

Sources used:

Daily Star: Drivers warned new 'date night' trend could land them with £2.5k fine

TikTok