It is that time of year in which college acceptance letters are sent out and official decisions about what college to go to are made. As you make the decision on what school to go to in the fall, there are lots of things to think about. “Will I live in a dorm?” “Should I have roommates?” “Should I bring my car with me?” All of these questions will require some time to think on them. With regard to the last one, we can offer some insight that may help in the decision making process.
Bringing your car to school is a big undertaking. There are a lot of responsibilities to having a car on campus, one being getting it there in the first place. Depending on where you go to school, it might be hundreds of miles from your home. It may be a lot easier to ship your car to school instead, something we specialize in with our college student auto shipping! Once you reserve your shipment with us, here are other things you need to consider about having your car on campus.
Understand Parking Policies
Parking regulations on college campuses differ from school to school, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with your campus’s specific rules. Some universities require parking permits to park anywhere on campus, with designated areas for permitted vehicles, while others assign specific parking lots to students. In certain cases, students might have more freedom to park anywhere, provided they are not violating any other regulations.
Whatever your school’s policy is, make sure to understand it early on and follow through with any necessary procedures to ensure you can park without any issues. For instance, if your school requires a permit, apply for it as soon as possible to avoid delays. Similarly, if your school assigns you to a specific parking lot, know where it is and park only in that designated area to avoid being ticketed or towed.
Keep Your Valuables Secure
While college campuses are generally safe, it is always a good idea to be cautious about the security of your belongings. This is particularly true when it comes to your car. While your car is likely to be safe in a designated parking area, it is still important to keep any valuables out of sight. It is best to avoid leaving anything valuable in your vehicle whenever possible. If you must leave something in the car, make sure to store it in the trunk or cover it up. It may seem trivial, but studies have shown that simply covering items can deter thieves. Often, just the sight of valuables through a window can entice someone to break in. So, even if you think it’s a hassle, taking a few extra minutes to secure your items can help reduce the risk of theft.
Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
Another essential tip is to always keep an emergency kit in your car. You never know when an emergency might arise, and it’s important to be prepared. Your kit should include basics like a first aid kit, an umbrella, and a bottle of water. It is also a good idea to pack a non-perishable food item that will not spoil or melt in the heat of your car. Having these supplies on hand can help you feel more secure knowing you’re ready for anything that might come your way. Whether it is a flat tire, an unexpected weather change, or just needing a snack between classes, an emergency kit can be a lifesaver in a variety of situations.
