11 Things You Leave in Your Car That Invite Thieves
There’s a sinking feeling we’ve all experienced or at least feared: returning to your car only to find a broken window and missing items. Many people unknowingly make it easy for criminals by leaving certain valuables in plain sight, effectively turning their cars into prime targets for thieves.
If you’ve been treating your car as a storage unit, it’s time to reconsider what you leave behind. Here are some common items that can attract thieves to your car.
Electronics and Accessories
Leaving electronics or their accessories visible is like sending a signal to thieves. A phone charging cable sticking out of the console, a tablet on the back seat, or a smartwatch left on the dashboard can be irresistible to criminals. Accessories hint that valuable electronics may be hidden elsewhere, like under a seat or in the glove compartment. Thieves can break in quickly, often in just a few seconds.
Spare Keys
While having a spare key in your car might seem like a good idea, it’s actually an invitation for theft. Once inside, a thief can simply grab the key and drive off with your vehicle. Many stolen cars are taken because the spare key was left inside. Consider hiding your spare key in a secure location like under a seat or in the sun visor.
Wallets and Purses
This one’s obvious, yet it still happens frequently. Leaving a wallet or purse in your car is an open invitation to thieves and also increases the risk of identity theft. Wallets contain cash and other easily liquidated valuables, while even an empty purse can entice a thief, who may believe something valuable is inside.
Shopping Bags
Thieves love the mystery of shopping bags, assuming that whatever is inside is valuable. They won’t hesitate to break in to find out. To avoid this, place shopping bags in the trunk or take them inside as soon as possible. Keeping them out of sight reduces the risk of theft.
Loose Change
While it might seem trivial, loose change can be enough to attract thieves. If there’s loose change in your car, a thief may break in just for the coins—and while they’re at it, they’ll likely look for other valuables.
Luggage
Leaving luggage in your car, especially when traveling, sends a clear message: “Steal me!” Suitcases often contain clothes, gadgets, or other valuables that make them attractive targets. Thieves may even steal empty luggage, hoping there’s something valuable inside. If you have to leave luggage in your car, store it in the trunk or cover it up. But nothing beats bringing it inside with you.
Tools
Expensive power tools or even basic hand tools left in your car are prime targets for thieves. Tools are easy to resell, making them a valuable commodity. Construction workers are often the victims of such thefts.
Paperwork
Leaving important documents like insurance forms, vehicle registration, or mail in your car can be risky. Thieves can use this personal information to steal your identity or impersonate you if they’re caught driving your vehicle. Keep sensitive documents with you or locked away out of sight.
Sporting Equipment
Sporting gear, such as golf clubs, tennis rackets, or gym bags, might seem harmless, but to a thief, they’re valuable and easy to pawn. Even if your gear isn’t worth much, a thief won’t know until they’ve already broken into your car.
Backpacks
Backpacks, whether they’re school bags or hiking packs, are a magnet for thieves. They suggest valuable items like laptops, cameras, or electronics. Even if the bag is empty, a thief won’t know until they’ve broken in.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications in your car are a double risk. Thieves might steal them to sell, and you also risk losing something crucial for your health. It’s safer to carry medications with you or keep them in a secure place at home, rather than leaving them in your car.
