Motorhome and campervan owners could be hit with £70 fines and face having their vehicles towed for failing to meet new overnight parking restrictions being introduced across popular UK holiday hotspots. The warning comes as demand for motorhome breaks has exploded across the UK, with searches for motorhome parks soaring by 9,000 per cent in the past month alone. Since more Britons are choosing staycations over travelling abroad, there has been a spike in motorhome interest, although experts warn that drivers could be caught out by rules. Experts stated that a lack of awareness has been leaving drivers vulnerable to penalties, particularly in coastal areas where councils are clamping down. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Mel Savage, head of underwriting operations at Ripe Motorhome Insurance, said: "Fines usually start at £70 and can increase if enforcement officers deem the stop to be causing an obstruction or environmental damage. "In some cases, repeat offences can lead to the vehicle being towed or impounded." Councils in North Yorkshire have introduced an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order to control overnight motorhome parking in busy seaside locations. North Yorkshire Council launched a trial restriction for 18 months that prohibits motorhomes and campervans from parking b etween 11pm and 7am in areas including Sandsend, Royal Albert Drive in Scarborough, and Cayton Bay. Ms Savage added: "Local authorities may still restrict parking in certain streets, laybys, or beaches. "Being caught in breach of these rules can result in a fixed penalty notice, and in some cases, towing or additional fines." Many drivers mistakenly believe they can park overnight in laybys or roadside pull-ins without consequences, although this can lead to fines for breaking local laws. "Even if your motorhome is self-contained, stopping here to sleep or cook can be considered a breach of local traffic orders," she said. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Pothole crisis requires £18bn in repairs as drivers resort to abusing workers - 'Shouted at, spat at, and even hit' Thousands of drivers face huge new costs for licences and tests with fresh price hike Chinese cars join Motability scheme as Rachel Reeves axes 'high-end' vehicles from offering Regardless of how well-behaved drivers are inside their vehicles, the issue comes from the location and duration of where they are parked. Drivers are being urged to check local signage and council guidance before settling down for the night, as rules can vary widely depending on the location and time of year. The expert added: "People are looking for ways to enjoy scenic breaks closer to home, especially following disruption to travel and rising international travel costs. Motorhomes offer freedom, comfort, and a safe way to explore the UK. "Motorhome owners may want to check their policy booklet to understand exactly what their cover includes and whether any restrictions apply." She continued, saying that drivers should be prepared and aware of local regulations, as well as be properly insured to "let people fully enjoy the freedom of a motorhome holiday without fear of fines or complications". To avoid getting caught out by new parking rules, the expert advised drivers to plan ahead by using approved campsites or designated motorhome areas, and to double-check insurance policies before travelling. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter