Reduce The Risk Of A Car Break-In Or Vandalism During Your Summer Vacation

If you're planning a vacation this summer, the last things you want to experience is a vehicle break-in or to have your vehicle vandalized. Whether you have to rent a car while yours is repaired, you have some of your personal possessions stolen or you're otherwise inconvenienced, being victim to a break-in or vandalism can definitely put a damper on your otherwise fun summer vacation. While your auto insurance provider can take care of you whether you're in your home state or beyond, being on the phone filing an insurance claim probably isn't the way you envisioned spending your vacation. Fortunately, you can use a series of simple techniques to reduce your chance of being victimized.

Park In Proper Areas

While you likely want to save money as much as possible on your vacation, you don't want saving a few dollars on parking to come at the expense of a vehicle break-in. When you're enjoying various attractions, opt for parking in official lots, as many of these have security staff, limited access to members of the public and even video surveillance. This is preferable to finding a side street or an abandoned lot to leave your car; sure, the latter might be free, but it also likely carries more risk of a break-in.

Block Your Plate, When Possible

If you're attending a sporting event in a different state, there's always the chance of someone vandalizing your vehicle because it has an out-of-state license plate. This can especially be the case if there's a heavy sport-based rivalry between your state and the state you're visiting. Where possible, park your vehicle so that the license plate isn't obvious. This is especially easy when your state doesn't require a front license plate, as you can simply back your vehicle up against a fence or a wall so that the rear plate is obscured from view.

Be Smart About Your Purchases

If part of your vacation includes shopping, you need to be careful to avoid leaving shopping bags in plain sight in your vehicle. This can be too good to pass up for someone who wants to make a quick dollar. Use your trunk as much as possible and, if you have a hatchback, consider subtly covering your items with beach towels or other objects. It can also be smart to carry your newly bought valuables into your hotel or motel at night, given that some thieves target parked vehicles left overnight outside hotels. Click here for info on for more information.