When you’re heading out for a long trip, figuring out what to do with your car is a big deal. Leaving it parked at home might seem easy, but it can cause problems like a dead battery or even damage.
Here are simple tips for car storage abroad to keep your car safe and ready for when you get back, so you can focus on your adventure.
Store Your Car in a Safe Spot
Leaving your car in a good place keeps it safe from weather, theft, or damage. Here are some options:
- Garage at home: If you have a garage, park your car there to protect it from rain, snow, or sun. Lock it up tight.
- Friend or family’s place: Ask someone you trust to let your car stay in their driveway or garage. Give them a spare key in case it needs to be moved.
- Paid storage: Rent a spot at a storage facility for extra security. Indoor storage keeps your car safe from weather and theft, but it costs more. Outdoor storage is cheaper but leaves your car open to rain or sun damage. Prices can range from $75 to $250 a month, depending on the location and type.
Tips to Know: Make sure the spot is safe and covered if possible. Check if the storage place has cameras or security guards. Indoor storage is best for long trips or fancy cars, but outdoor spots save money if you’re okay with some weather risk.
Get Your Car Ready Before You Go
To keep your car in good shape while you’re away, do these easy steps:
- Clean it: Wash the outside and vacuum the inside to avoid rust or bad smells. Car washes can help if you’re short on time.
- Fill the gas tank: A full tank stops water from building up in the tank, which can hurt the engine. Add a fuel stabilizer if you’ll be gone for more than a month.
- Check the battery: Cars left sitting can lose battery power. Disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer to keep it charged.
- Tire care: Pump up tires to the right pressure (check your car’s manual). If you’re gone for a long time, lift the car onto jack stands to avoid flat spots on tires.
Example: A car left for six months without a full tank or battery care might not start when you return, costing $100–$300 to fix.
Handle Your Car Insurance
Don’t pay for full car insurance if you’re not driving. Here’s what to do:
- Switch to storage insurance: Call your insurance company and ask for “comprehensive-only” coverage. This protects against theft or damage but costs less than full coverage—sometimes 50% less.
- Cancel if allowed: If you’re gone for years and the car is stored safely, you might pause insurance. Check local rules, as some places require minimum coverage even for parked cars.
- Keep records: Save proof of insurance in case you need it when you’re back.
Tips to Know: Tell your insurance company you’re traveling to avoid surprises. Some companies, like TD Insurance, let you adjust coverage online.
Let Someone Check on Your Car
Ask a friend, neighbor, or family member to look at your car every few weeks.
They can:
- Start the engine for 5–10 minutes every month to keep it working.
- Check for leaks, flat tires, or damage.
- Move the car a little (if it’s in a driveway) to stop tire flat spots.
Pro Tip: Write down simple instructions for them, like how to start the car or where the spare key is.
Consider Renting Out Your Car
If you want to make some money, you can rent your car while you’re gone. Apps like Turo let you list your car for others to rent. You set the price and rules, and they handle insurance.
- Pros: Earn $200–$1,000 a month, depending on your car and location.
- Cons: Your car might get wear and tear, and you need someone to manage handoffs.
Tips to Know: Only rent to trusted platforms with good reviews. Have a friend or family member handle the car for you.
Sell Your Car if You’re Gone for Years
If you’re traveling for a long time (like two years or more), selling your car might be smarter than storing it. Cars lose value over time, and storage costs can add up. Use sites like AutoTrader to sell it easily. You can also try a lease ownership transfer on places like Facebook Marketplace, where someone takes over your car lease payments.
- Example: A $15,000 car might lose $2,000 in value each year. Storage at $100/month for two years costs $2,400. Selling could save you money.
- Tips to Know: Be careful with lease transfers. Scams are common on sites like Marketplace. Never share personal info like your bank details. Meet in a safe, public place, and check the buyer’s ID. Use a notary service to make the transfer official.
Plan for When You Come Back
Before you return, contact your insurance company to restart full coverage if you switched to storage insurance. Ask your friend or family to check the car a week before you’re back.
They can:
- Charge the battery or reconnect it.
- Check oil and tire pressure.
- Test the brakes and lights.
This makes sure your car is ready to drive when you land.
Keep Your Car Safe and Save Money
Taking care of your car while you’re abroad keeps it safe and saves you from big repair bills. Whether you park it, store it, or rent it out, car storage abroad can be easy with a little planning.
Follow these tips, and you’ll come back to a car that’s ready to roll.
