Some laws are so strange that you would never think they existed. But trust us, they do! And if you’re planning on travelling abroad anytime soon, it’s important to be aware of them.

From drinking chewing gum in Singapore to flushing the toilet at night in Switzerland, here are some of the UK’s weirdest laws that you need to be aware of, as well as those from when you travel abroad.

These are sure to make you think twice about your plans! So before you head off on your next adventure, read up on this list.

Weird UK Laws

1. In the UK, you cannot shake your rug in the street

Unusual laws are always good for a laugh, but you might want to note these oddities before your next vacation. In the United Kingdom, for instance, it is considered an offence to shake a rug or mat in public.

The Metropolitan Police Act 1839 expressly outlaws the act of beating or shaking any carpet, mat, or rug upon any street to remove dust or dirt. So if you’re itching to give your mat a good beating, make sure you do it in the privacy of your own home because if you don’t, you might end up having to pay a £200 fine.

2. In the UK, it is illegal to dress up as a police officer

It is technically illegal to dress up as a police officer in the UK. This law was implemented as per the Police Act 1996 to prevent people from impersonating law enforcement officers and committing crimes, and it helps avoid confusion from people who might mistake someone to be a police officer when they actually are not.

3. Sliding on icy streets in the UK is forbidden

Of course, sliding on an icy street can actually be quite dangerous. Not only can you injure yourself, but you can also damage property or cause injury to others. So if you’re planning on spending a winter in the UK for a vacation, ‌stay off the ice.

This legislation was brought into effect by section 54 of the Metropolitan Police Act 1839.

4. Being found Drunk in a Pub is Illegal in the UK

In England and Wales, it is illegal to be found drunk in a pub or on licensed premises. This law was implemented in 1872 as per section 12 of The Licensing Act to reduce public drunkenness and disorderly behavior.

So, if you’re planning on hitting the bars during your stay in England or Wales, be sure to drink responsibly! Anyone who is seriously intoxicated in a pub could have to pay a fine of up to £200.

Unusual Laws from Abroad

Unusual laws from abroad are always worth considering getting to grips with before travelling to a new destination, and these laws from these countries are no different.

Flushing the toilet at night in Switzerland is prohibited

One law that might surprise visitors is the ban on flushing the toilet at night. This unusual regulation is in place to prevent noise pollution, and it’s something that travellers need to be aware of before they travel.

Although it might seem small, following this law is essential to avoid potentially costly fines. So, if you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be sure to keep this unusual law in mind.

Chewing gum is banned in Singapore

Another unusual law is that chewing gum is not allowed in Singapore. This may come as a surprise to many, but there is a good reason behind it. Chewing gum litter is difficult and expensive to clean up and can cause health risks.

As a result, they banned the sale of chewing gum in Singapore in 1992, and possession or importation of chewing gum can cause a fine of up to $100,000 and jail time of up to two years. So if you’re planning a trip to Singapore, be sure to leave your gum at home.

It’s a crime in Turin, Italy, if you do not take your dog for a walk three times a day

This may seem like an extreme law, but it is in place to ensure owners take proper care of their pets, especially since Italy is considered to be a nation that loves animals. If people are caught not walking their dogs outside at least 3 times a day, then the fine to pay could be 500 euros ($650) as per the city’s council’s laws.

It is illegal to change light bulbs in Victoria, Australia

In Victoria, Australia, it is against the law to change a light bulb unless you are a qualified electrician. The law is in place to protect people from electrocution, and you can be fined for breaking it. So if you’re planning a trip to Australia, make sure you know the local laws before you try to change a light bulb.

Conclusion

So before you go jetting off to another country, be sure to brush up on their laws. Or better yet, contact a lawyer who can help advise you on the legal implications of your travels. It’s always better to play it safe and know what is and isn’t allowed in other countries; that way, you can avoid any unwanted run-ins with the law while holidaying abroad