GoRoundTheWorld.com - RTW Travel - Before Departure - Cars, Automobiles, and Motorcycles

Leaving an Automobile Behind

If you own an automobile, you will need to sell it, lend it to someone, or otherwise place it under someone’s care while you are traveling. If you are contemplating a long journey, you want to be sure that it is used occasionally so it doesn’t sit, unstarted, for the duration of your travels. Aside from that, you need to be sure that someone has a key and authorization from you to move it should the need arise. A few options follow:

Sell Your Automobile. This option is especially appealing if you have an older make of auto or if you are planning to get a new one when you return from your trip. The longer your trip, the better this option may appear to be.

Lend It to Someone. Perhaps you have a relative who could use a car while you are traveling. They will in all likelihood be delighted to use your car while you are overseas. You will need to check on the implications this has for your auto and liability insurance, and you will need to be sure to adjust any underlying insurance policies accordingly. You should also be sure that the person to whom you have lent your car has copies of all registration, government, and insurance documents concerning the vehicle.

Lend It to A Charity. Many charities would gladly accept your automobile for use while you are traveling. If you have payment obligations for the automobile, perhaps the charity would consider reimbursing you for them. If they are not able to or are unwilling to reimburse you for any such obligations, you may be able to take a deduction on your taxes for some or all of the amount. Or, depending on your local tax laws, you may be able to take a per-mile charitable deduction for the number of miles your car is used by such a charity. You should check your local charity and tax regulations for details. It may also be advisable to speak to someone knowledgeable about the matter such as a tax accountant. Finally, you will need to understand any implications such an arrangement may have for your automobile or liability insurance.

Park It Somewhere Out of The Way Such As in A Long-Term Parking Lot. This option may be expensive. You should ensure that a trusted friend or relative has keys to your auto and proper authorization to drive it should it need to be moved. It should occasionally be operated to ensure its good working order.