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The road trip is an American institution. Whether it’s for recreation or moving from state to state, millions of drivers hit the road every year to soak up the miles. However, tackling your road trip with all of your valuables in your car could make you a target for theft. That said, there are a few things you can do to protect your car, truck, SUV, or van from predatory parties while you travel. 

Making the right choices with your car on your road trip could save you from the devastating hassle of theft

My old man had an adage about thieves. “If someone wants your stuff enough, they’re going to get it.” While it might seem a bit pessimistic, it’s true. For every countermeasure you put in place, there is a workaround for thieves. However, you can make yourself less of a target and encourage opportunists to head on down the road. 

  • Take all of your most valuable articles with you into your accommodations
  • Remember to lock your car
  • Obscure anything of value from view
  • Park within view of your accommodations
  • Park under a bright lamp or within the view of a security camera
  • Don’t leave your car parked in one place or out of view for extended periods

Granted, it might be impossible to take all of your valuables with you when you park your car on a road trip. After all, if you’re road-tripping to complete a cross-country move, you have way too much to unload at an overnight stop. However, you can take your most important or valuable articles with you into your accommodations. Frankly, anything in your car is a target for theft. 

I know. Seems obvious to recommend locking your car. However, an unlocked car without an audible alarm is an easy quarry for thieves. Beyond locking your car, it’s beneficial to obscure your car’s contents from view if you can remove them from the vehicle. Consider using a dark blanket or a cover.

Should you overnight in a hotel during your road trip, try to make a note of the direction of your room’s window. If possible, park your vehicle in the view of your window. Consequently, you’ll be able to observe your car from the safety of your room.

In addition to parking within view, try to identify a parking spot under bright overhead lights. Preferably, pick a spot within view of a security camera. Finally, should you stop for multiple nights, don’t leave your vehicle in the same spot for multiple days. Even the illusion of movement can deter a criminal. Of course, none of these tips are a guarantee. But you can make yourself a more difficult target.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).