Unusual laws that could land you in trouble while traveling

If you’re travelling to a new country anytime soon, beware! If you aren’t careful, you may end up unintentionally breaking the law and land in trouble. Seemingly harmless and casual actions may sometimes be surprisingly illegal in several global countries, many of which are popular travel destinations too. So, it’s important to do your research on these local laws whenever you’re about to travel to any new country.

It will help you avoid legal hassles, cultural offences, and of course, pave the way for a smooth travel experience. Without further ado, let’s look at some of these unusual laws that may land you in trouble while you’re travelling.

Why understanding local laws is crucial

Travellers often have several common misconceptions about laws in various countries. You may feel that certain medications prescribed in your country are automatically legal elsewhere and hence to carry. It could also be an assumption that driving laws and other rules are the same in another country, and also that photography or videography is always allowed.

For example, taking a photograph in a restricted location may lead to a hefty fine or even imprisonment at times. The same holds true if you unknowingly break a cultural barrier or custom, or even break a local traffic law or safety rule. Littering, jaywalking, and other activities may sometimes be offences in other countries, while knowing the local customs and laws will help you avoid misunderstandings with local residents and authorities alike.

List of unusual laws around the world

Now let’s take a closer look at some of the most unusual laws around the world that you should be aware of.

1. Singapore- No chewing gum

You’ll be surprised to know that chewing gum is illegal to import, manufacture, or sell in Singapore, with stringent fines and penalties, including potential time in jail! While chewing gum is not illegal per se, the rule mostly focuses on preventing any litter or service disruptions on the MRT (mass rapid transit) system.

So, chewing gum can lead to a fine of up to S$2,000 and importing the same may lead to S$10,000 in fines and/or one year in jail for first-time offenders. Subsequent offenders may have to face even higher penalties. Exceptions are only made for nicotine/dental gum with medical prescriptions.

2. Venice, Italy- No feeding pigeons

An act as harmless as feeding the pigeons may get you into trouble while visiting Venice, Italy. You can be fined if you’re caught violating this law in almost all places throughout the city, including the popular St. Mark’s Square and so on. The law aims at maintaining cleanliness and preserving all the historic monuments in the city, which can be ensured by lowering the pigeon population.

So, if you’re in Venice, it’s always best to appreciate the birds from afar without trying to feed them. In fact, the original law goes back to 1997, with the authorities banning anyone from feeding the pigeons, with the exception being the Piazza San Marco.

3. Japan- No obese citizens (Metabo Law)

Planning a trip to Japan might be just what you need to get back in shape! Yes, you read it right. The Metabo Law was introduced in the country back in 2008 and regulates citizens between 40 and 74 years of age to have an annual waist circumference of 33.5 inches and 35.4 inches for men and women, respectively. The rule aims at addressing growing countrywide obesity and the risks of metabolic syndrome.

In fact, local government authorities and employers hold responsibility for conducting these waist measurements annually. Those who cross the limits will be referred to counselling programs along with being tracked via email or phone correspondence. They will receive ample motivational support for encouraging changes in lifestyle. Some employers may also face penalties in case a specific percentage of employees exceed the circumference limits. However, do note that being overweight is not technically illegal in the country, and there are no fines or other consequences if you’re overweight. However, it’s a great motivator to cut that flab, right?

4. Switzerland- No flushing toilets at night in apartments

Renting an apartment on your Switzerland trip? Flushing the toilet at night could land you in trouble! It’s a local rule imposed by landlords in several areas to maintain peace and quiet in residential zones, and you cannot flush toilets after 10 PM in apartments (till 6 AM in the morning).

However, the rule is not universal and depends on the regulations of the specific landlord/building. Make sure you clarify it with your landlord or rental agency before you visit, since the Swiss Government has already stated that being loud or disturbing neighbours is forbidden between 10 PM and 6 AM.

5. Thailand- Don’t step on money

Let’s picture a scenario- you’re converting money into local Thai baht, and one note falls and you mistakenly step on it. In this case, you may be in for serious legal trouble, since Thailand does not allow stepping on money. This is illegal, since the currency contains the face of the king, who is deeply respected in the country. Hence, stepping on money will be perceived as an offence to the pride and values of Thailand. Fines aside, the punishment for this offence may involve a prison term up to 15 years.

6. Greece- High heels are illegal at ancient sites

Greece is one country that’s on everyone’s bucket-list, although you should be careful about wearing high heels at ancient sites like the Epidaurus Theatre and Acropolis. This seemingly-bizarre rule aims at safeguarding historic monuments from damage, with consequences including steep fines up to €900.

The rule was introduced in 2009 since heels may damage the stone and marble surfaces of several monuments. Other restrictions at these sites include prohibitions for on-site performances, drinks, food, etc.

7. Australia- Do not vacuum at night

Using a vacuum cleaner at night may get you into serious legal trouble in Australia. You cannot make noise with the device after 10 PM and till 7 AM on weekdays and 9 AM on weekends. If caught, you may be visited by the local police and requested to stop for 72 hours. Breaching this directive may lead to fines up to AUD18,655.20 with additional fines up to AUD4,663.80 each day for continued noise violations.

8. France- Kissing is illegal on train platforms

Feeling romantic in France while travelling with your beloved? Don’t kiss him/her on the train platform by all means! A law dating back to 1910 forbids kissing on platforms with the aim being preventing any delays due to long goodbyes. The law still remains active, although there’s no formal penalty. But there’s no need to break it, since you never know!

9. Germany- Running out of gas on the autobahn

Running out of gas is considered illegal on the Autobahn, since it’s an unnecessary stop and may lead to a fine. You should always fill up your tank if you’re taking a car rental and driving on the iconic Autobahn high-speed highway. Fortunately, the circuit has several rest stops with toilets, gas stations, and restaurants, so it’s not hard to fill up on the way. Be aware of other rules here, including not making a U-turn or reversing and not parking or stopping along the highway.

10. Canada- Don’t use coins in large amounts

If you’re travelling to Canada anytime soon, make sure you don’t use coins in bigger amounts for payments. The Currency Act specifies the amount that you can tender for payments, i.e. CAD$40 for $2-10 coins and CAD$25 for $1 coins, along with CAD$10 for coins between $1 and 10¢. Doing so may lead to fines and further legal trouble.

How to stay out of legal trouble while travelling

Now that you’re aware of some of the most unusual laws worth noting while travelling abroad, here are some ways to stay out of legal trouble whenever you visit any country.

• Do your research on local laws and customs, inclusive of drug and traffic laws and any other cultural regulations.
• Be respectful of cultural practices and norms, while dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection wherever it could be inappropriate.
• Note what is legal and illegal in the country you’re visiting and observe local behaviour carefully. Use your common sense to understand what is appropriate in a particular scenario.
• Do not walk alone at night in deserted or unsafe areas. Also, be cautious about sharing minute details of your travel plans on social media (it could make you an easy target for criminals).
• Make sure you choose safe and reliable accommodation in a reputable neighbourhood.
• Be responsible while dining and drinking. Avoid drunk driving at all costs.
• If you’re renting a car, know about the local laws and license regulations.
• Secure your passport and other vital documents in a locked suitcase, safe, or money belt.
• Avoid carrying huge amounts of cash, and use travel money cards or credit cards instead.
• Make a list of emergency services and other contact numbers, while keeping a copy of your passport and contacts at all times.

Concluding notesSo, as you can see, it’s always crucial to be aware of unusual laws and other regulations in any new country that you’re visiting. You should stay informed about local customs and laws and read up on everything that’s legal or illegal for tourists before visiting. With a little care and homework, you can easily stay out of trouble and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Mohsin is a writer who blends storytelling, strategy, and travel insights to inspire and inform globetrotters for smooth, hassle-free journeys.