Cars are often temporary storage spaces for our daily essentials. But leaving certain items in your vehicle can be risky.

From damage caused by heat to the threat of theft, some objects simply don’t belong in a parked car.

Here’s a guide to the everyday items you should think twice about leaving behind.

1. Electronics

Phones, laptops, tablets, and cameras might be portable, but they’re vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Leaving them in a hot car can cause batteries to swell, screens to crack, or devices to stop working entirely. Beyond damage, electronics are also prime targets for thieves, so it’s best to take them with you.

2. Food and Drinks

It’s tempting to leave snacks or beverages in the car for later, but heat and fluctuating temperatures can turn a harmless treat into a bacterial hazard. Milk, sandwiches, and even chocolate can spoil or melt, leaving a sticky mess—and a smell that’s hard to remove.

3. Wallets, Cash, and Valuables

Leaving money, credit cards, or other valuables in a car is an open invitation for theft. Even if hidden under seats, a determined thief can find them. Your safest bet is to keep these essentials on your person or in a secure location.

4. Medications

Prescription drugs are delicate. Heat can degrade their effectiveness, making them less safe or completely unusable. If you rely on certain medications daily, always carry them in a cooler bag or take them with you.

5. Lighters, Batteries, and Aerosol Cans

These items may seem harmless, but under intense heat, they can leak, explode, or catch fire. Leaving them in a sun-exposed car is a serious safety risk.

6. Sunglasses and Cosmetics

Sunlight can warp sunglasses, melt lipstick, and ruin creams or lotions. Protect these items by storing them in shaded areas or carrying them with you.

7. Children and Pets

Most importantly, never leave children or pets in a car unattended. Even a few minutes in a hot vehicle can be fatal, as temperatures rise faster than most people realise.