Entering the Airport: 5 Ways to Safely Store Your Vehicle While Traveling

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, whether you’re driving yourself to the airport or getting a ride, you may need to make arrangements for your vehicle while you travel. Usually short trips, less than a week, won’t require you to figure out how to safely store your vehicle. But if you have parking rules where you live, you’re going on a long trip or are concerned about the safety of your car or truck, here are some ways to keep your ride safe while you’re gone.

1. Airport Parking

One of the most convenient and popular choices is to park at the airport. Tools like Airport Parking Helper make it easier and less expensive to take advantage of a convenient and secure parking lot. These are a great option if you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time.

2. Your Garage

If you have a garage or carport at your home, and you’re in a safe neighborhood where you wouldn’t be worried, then home is a sure bet. You can hire a car to get to the airport or have a friend or family member drive you there. If your trip is going to be a long one, you should strongly consider covering your vehicle with a car cover or tarp to keep it shielded from the elements. If you feel comfortable, let a trusted neighbour or someone else know that you will be out of town and that you would like them to look in on your vehicle from time to time.

3. Friends or Family

If you are unable to leave your vehicle at your residence, you may want to consider leaving it with a friend or family member. If you trust them and they have a safe place to store your vehicle, things should run smoothly.

4. Long-Term Storage Facility

Long-term storage facilities usually come in three sizes. There is uncovered, which is a secure open lot; covered, which is an open lot with canopies or a garage; and indoor, which usually offers individual units that you lock yourself with the lock of your choosing. It’s a good idea to notify your auto insurance company if this is your choice.

5. Your Mechanic

Since you’re going to be away, now is the perfect time to catch up on maintenance work without being inconvenienced. If you choose this option, be sure to let your mechanic know that you won’t be returning for a while. If he charges storage fees, you may be able to negotiate the price.

Regardless of the storage option you choose, if your vehicle will be sitting still for any amount of time, it’s a good idea to wash it inside and out, underneath the hood too. Also remember to inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended maximum inflation and to top off all of your fluids. A full gas tank and other reservoirs means that there is little room for water damage to occur in sensitive areas. – Travel Feeder