Items you should not leave in your car overnight

From long road trips to daily commutes, even errands, our cars often become our second home. Whether we use them to work, eat on the go, or pick up our kids from the gym, we spend a lot of time in our cars.

So when it's time to go home, many people forget a few things or simply don't want to bring them in. While some items can stay in the car until the next day, some seemingly harmless items can not only attract criminals but also cause other stressful and expensive problems. Here are some things you should never leave in your car overnight, according to experts.

Registration and insurance papers

While keeping registration and insurance information in the glove compartment isn't something most of us think about, bringing these documents into the house is a smart decision, especially if you park your car on the street overnight.

Don't leave your registration and insurance documents in your car overnight, as they contain your home address and other important information. If your car is stolen, you don't want criminals showing up at your house or using that information to steal your identity.

Sunglasses

Sometimes we drive from morning to night and end up leaving our sunglasses in the car overnight. If they are expensive designer sunglasses, it is like an invitation for a burglar to break in.

Food

Did you stop for lunch on the way and eat in the car? That half-empty box of chips can come back to haunt you the next day by making your car stink.

This can also attract insects or bugs if the car windows are left open, so don't forget to throw it away.

Water bottle

While it may seem harmless, a half-empty water bottle can actually make you very sick. Plastic can break down in hot or cold weather, and that leftover water can quickly become unpleasant.

Electronics

Laptops are expensive and contain important data. Like sunglasses, leaving them in your car will attract thieves. Not only are your laptop, charger, and headphones at risk of theft, but extreme temperatures can also damage your battery and wiring.

Sunscreen

During the hot summer months, you may want to leave your beach gear — like chairs, towels, and sand toys — in your car overnight, especially if you plan to return soon. But don't forget to pack your sunscreen. If your car gets too hot, the heat can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the product.

Gym clothes

Did you shower after a sweaty bike ride? Don't forget to bring a gym bag with your damp, smelly clothes. While it may not seem like a big deal, moisture can increase odors and even lead to mold forming on your clothes or inside your sneakers if left in the car overnight.

Micah Soto

Update 23 August 2025