Tourists in a holiday hotspot might innocently pack one item of clothing without realising it could get them fined nearly £3,000. Different countries around the world have varying customs and rules that should be observed when we visit them, out of respect for locals and to avoid nasty punishments. For example, tourists in Greece have been fined before for collecting pebbles from a beach. Popular spots in countries like Spain and Portugal have also brought in rules about tourists walking around their towns topless when not on the beach.

But there is one item of clothing that you might not realise can land you in serious trouble and get you a fine of thousands of pounds for simply placing it on your body. Jamie Fraser, travel expert at Wild Packs American Summer Camp, has shared the expensive fines UK tourists can face across the world, including this surprise one that people should know before packing their suitcases. 

In parts of the Caribbean, camouflage is not allowed. If you do, you face fines of 10,000 East Caribbean dollars, which is around £2,761. 

This rule applies in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. Camouflage clothes, including t-shirts, trousers, and shorts, are strictly off-limits. Camouflage is associated with military service, and it is therefore reserved for military personnel. 

"In Barbados, the offence can result in a fine of 10,000 East Caribbean dollars, approximately £2,761, or a year in prison," Fraser said.

The rule also applies to children, so make sure that you don't pack any camouflage clothes for them when going to these countries. 

Fraser shared some advice for when you are fined while on holiday abroad. Firstly, ignoring it can lead to escalated punishments, so it's best to pay it as soon as you receive it. 

However, he urged tourists to also "Check that the fine has been issued by an official authority, like the police, transport operators, or local council." 

He added: "Always ask for written documentation with the name of the issuing body."

Find out the reason for the fine, get proof of your payment of the fine, and speak to an official if you are still unsure. These Caribbean countries are popular spots for Brits on cruises around the region. While they offer a relaxing getaway with stunning beaches and amazing food, things can quickly turn stressful if you are dished a fine you didn't see coming.