Picture this: you’re cruising down California’s coastal highways, chilling on a Florida beach, or soaking in Arizona’s desert vibes. Summer road trips are all about freedom, adventure, and good times. But here’s the buzzkill: your car’s a prime target for thieves when you’re out exploring.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau says over 1 million vehicles get stolen in the U.S. every year, and July and August are peak season. Crowded tourist spots, hotel parking lots, and rest stops? They’re like candy stores for crooks who know you’ve got valuables in tow.
Don’t let a thief jack your vibe. Here’s how to keep your car safe and your summer worry-free.
Pick Smart Parking Spots
Park where it’s bright and busy, like under a streetlight or near a crowded restaurant. Thieves love dark, quiet corners—think empty hotel lots or sketchy rest stops. If you can swing secure or valet parking, do it. The extra bucks are worth not coming back to a busted window or a missing car.
Hide Your Stuff
Leaving your phone, bag, or even sunglasses on the seat is like putting up a neon sign that says, “Steal me!” Stash everything in the trunk or a lockable compartment before you get to your stop. Thieves scope out cars in parking lots, so don’t make it easy for them to spot a payday.
Double-Check Those Locks
You hit the lock button on your key fob and walk away, right? Problem is, those things can glitch if you’re too quick. Always give your doors a quick tug to make sure they’re locked. Same goes for windows, roll ‘em up tight, even if you’re just popping into a gas station for a soda.
Throw in Some Extra Protection
Old-school tricks like a steering wheel lock, brake lock, or tire lock still work. Thieves want the easiest target, and a big, visible lock screams, “Not worth the hassle.” It’s a small move that can make a crook move on to the next car.
Lock Down Your Roof Racks
Got a roof rack or cargo box for all your summer gear? Make sure it’s locked up tight. Thieves can crack open an unsecured box or snag your stuff in seconds. A good lock on your carrier is cheap insurance against a quick grab-and-go.
Get LoJack for Real Peace of Mind
Want to sleep easy on your road trip? Get LoJack from VG Motors. It uses advanced GPS technology, hidden by pros so thieves can’t find or disable it. Unlike those basic trackers that get jammed, LoJack’s hooked up directly with police nationwide. When your car’s reported stolen, cops get real-time alerts and can track it down fast. Most LoJack-equipped vehicles are back in under 24 hours, and tons are recovered in just a couple of hours. That’s not just tracking, that’s your summer saved.
Why Summer’s a Thief Magnet
Summer’s prime time for car thefts. States like California, Florida, and Arizona top the charts for stolen vehicles, especially around tourist traps. The NICB’s 2023 report says July and August see some of the highest theft rates all year. Why? You’re distracted, maybe hauling extra gear, and parking in unfamiliar spots. It’s like rolling out the red carpet for thieves.
Bonus Tips to Stay Ahead
- Keep your registration and insurance papers tucked away, not sitting in the glovebox for anyone to grab.
- Etch your VIN on your windows. It makes your car way less appealing for resale.
- Snap some pics of your car and any pricey gear before you hit the road. It’ll make things easier if you need to file a report.
- Let a friend or family member know your travel plans, just in case something goes sideways.
Keep the Good Times Rolling with LoJack
A stolen car can turn your dream road trip into a total nightmare. But with LoJack from VG Motors, you’re covered coast to coast with a system that’s got a proven track record of getting cars back fast. Pair that with a few smart habits, and you can focus on the good stuff: epic views, great tunes, and the open road.
Ready to protect your ride? Hook up LoJack with VG Motors and hit the road worry-free this summer!
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