Keep These Things Out of Your Glove Compartment
Your glove compartment might seem like the perfect catch-all spot, but not everything belongs in there. From items that can melt or explode to things that put your privacy at risk, some stuff is better stored elsewhere. Let’s take a look at some things you should definitely think twice about leaving in your glove box.
Personal Papers
Love a little glove box clutter? Your identity thieves do too. Personal documents, such as bills, letters, or anything with juicy details, can make you a target. If it’s got your full name, address, or account info, it belongs in a file folder, not your mobile snack-and-napkin drawer.
Vehicle Registration
Yes, you’re supposed to have it nearby, but it’s not the smartest idea to store it in your glove box. If your vehicle is stolen, then congratulations! You've just provided the thief with a personal ownership certificate. Keep a copy at home and one in a safer, hidden spot in your car.
Checkbook and Wallet
This is pretty much a “please rob me” starter pack. Your wallet has ID, credit cards, and maybe even your address. A checkbook? Even worse. If someone breaks into your car, you’ve provided them with everything they need to go on a shopping spree with your cash. Always take your checkbook and wallet along with you.
Vehicle Title
Your vehicle's title is the document that proves you own the vehicle. Leaving it in the glove box is like leaving the deed for your property taped to your front door. If your car is stolen, that piece of paper will make selling your car quite easy. Keep it at home, period.
Receipts
They seem harmless enough, but receipts can divulge way more than you think. They contain names, locations, and even partial credit card numbers. Plus, in summer heat, they’ll fade into unreadable mystery strips. It’s best to regularly clear them out.
Driver’s License
Your driver's license belongs in your wallet, not wedged in between some old ketchup packets. If your vehicle is broken into and your license is taken, there is a chance the thief now has your name, picture, birthdate, and address.
Valuables
If it’s worth something, don’t stash it in the glove compartment. Thieves check there first! Your glovebox is not Fort Knox; it’s more like a cardboard box with a latch. Take your valuables with you or hide them better.
Garage Door Opener
If the glove compartment contains your address and your garage door remote, you have just given a burglar a front-row ticket to your living room. Keep the opener out of sight, or better yet, take it with you.
Batteries
Extreme heat or cold can make batteries leak or even explode. Now, that’s one way to spice up a road trip, but not in a good way. Spare batteries should be stored in a temperature-controlled environment and not left to cook in your glove compartment.
Invoices
Whatever paperwork you’re holding onto, like business receipts, work orders, and unpaid bills, do not put them in the glove box. Not only can heat ruin the print, but some invoices have private information. You definitely don't want a total stranger knowing what you paid for your plumbing repairs. Get those filed at home.
Medications
Throwing meds in the glove box seems convenient until you remember it becomes an oven or icebox depending on the season. Heat and cold can alter the effectiveness of medications and the last thing you want is surprise side effects.
Extra Set of Keys
It seems smart until your car and spare keys disappear together. If someone breaks in and finds your extra set, they don’t need to hotwire anything. They’ll just wave goodbye and drive off with your car and your trust in humanity. Store your spares somewhere safer.
