The 1 common mistake that could cost drivers £2,500 and invalidate insurance

With over 17 million leisure car journeys estimated to be made during Bank Holiday Monday, many drivers are getting ready for their travels. But amid the excitement of packing for a trip, a simple luggage mistake could lead to hefty fines, penalty points, and even invalidate your insurance.

Car expert, Gabriel Hambleton, from Gold Label Car Care, has warned drivers about the risks of overpacking and overloading their vehicles during busy travel seasons. Mr Hambleton said: "Packing suitcases and other items too high so that they block the driver’s view can lead to a £50 penalty, and in more serious cases, this could result in fines of up to £2,500, a driving ban, and three penalty points. Additionally, accidents caused by overloading or obstructed vision can invalidate insurance, leaving drivers fully liable for damages."

Drivers overloaded by 15% or more face fines up to £300 and three points on their licence.

Smaller violations also attract fines with £100 for loads of up to 10% over the limit, and £200 for 10 to 14% over, according to the expert.

Hambleton even said that severe overloading of over 30% may lead to a court summons, and in extreme cases, prison sentences under dangerous driving laws.

Beyond fines, overloading can invalidate your insurance, leaving you unprotected in accidents.

Overloaded vehicles may also be stopped by authorities and prevented from continuing their journey until the weight is reduced.

To avoid this from taking place, load heavy items and luggage at the bottom of the boot to keep the centre of gravity low, use roof racks for bulky but lighter items like bedding, and use vacuum-sealed bags to reduce luggage size.

Carrying extra weight also means adjusting tyre pressure to recommended levels to maintain safety as underinflated tyres increase braking distance, reduce steering control, and waste fuel.

Check your vehicle handbook or inside the fuel door for correct tyre pressure (PSI) when carrying heavier loads and inflate tyres while cold.

Before hitting the road, it's also important to check your vehicle manual for the recommended payload weight. Make sure to calculate the combined weight of passengers and luggage to ensure you're within safe limits.

Hambleton added: "Occasionally driving with heavy loads shouldn’t cause major issues, but if you’re planning to go on a road trip this summer, persistent overloading wears down critical parts of the car, including the suspension, engine, brakes and tyres, which can lead to expensive repairs and a shorter vehicle lifespan."