Lois Larson
There are several options for leaving your car keys at the airport. You could use a mobile locker or safety deposit box at the airport, or leave the keys with luggage storage. Alternatively, you could hide the keys somewhere inside or outside the car, such as under the wheel arch, behind the license plate, or under the spare tire. Another option is to leave a spare key with someone who can bring it to the airport when needed. Finally, you could mail the keys to the recipient in advance or use a service like FedEx's Hold At Location.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving car keys at the airport | It is possible to leave car keys at the airport |
| Methods | Leave the car unlocked with the keys hidden somewhere inside, e.g. under the spare tire, behind the license plate, or in the wheel arch; use a lockbox or magnetic key box; mail the keys in advance; use a luggage storage service; use a mobile locker at the airport |
| Concerns | Security, especially if the keys are left in the car; logistics of getting the keys to the recipient |
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What You'll Learn
Hiding keys in the car
Hiding keys in or on your car is not recommended, as thieves may search around the exterior of the vehicle for them. However, if you need to do this, there are several places you could consider:
Wheel well
The wheel well is a discreet hiding spot, as potential thieves are less likely to inspect this area thoroughly. Place the key in a concealed crevice within the wheel well, away from direct line of sight and hard to access without prior knowledge. Avoid putting it too close to the tire or moving parts to prevent accidental damage.
Behind the license plate
You can purchase a special license plate hiding container (also known as a spare key hider) to make this neat and inconspicuous.
Behind the bumper
This is a common and widely known solution, but it requires a comprehensive approach. Car owners usually use containers with magnets to hide the keys. However, this won't work if your bumper is made of plastic or fibreglass.
The tailpipe
This is less conspicuous compared to hiding keys behind your tires or license plate, but the trade-off is that your keys will get dirty. It's easy to bend over and shove them in, but don't throw them in too far unless you have an extendable magnet!
Under the hood
Make sure you can open the hood from the outside of the car. Place the keys in a nook where they won't get crushed when you close it.
Hitch cover
A well-chosen hitch cover seamlessly blends with the overall look of your vehicle, making it difficult for anyone to discern its dual purpose. However, unlike some other ready-made hiding spots, the hitch safe requires installation.
If you are looking for places to hide keys in general, some other options include:
- Keep your spare key on you at all times.
- Wrap electronic devices in aluminium foil to reduce wireless signals.
- Use an RFID bag or Faraday cage to block RFID signals.
- Use a 'hide-a-key', an object disguised as an everyday object, like a rock, in which you can hide keys.
- Keep car keys in your bag or pocket for convenient access.
- Place a car key among potted plants.
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Using a lockbox
Leaving your car keys at the airport can be tricky, especially if you want to ensure they are secure. One option is to use a lockbox. Here are some tips on how to do this:
First, purchase a lockbox that suits your needs. There are various types available, including magnetic lockboxes that can be attached to the car, and traditional lockboxes with keys or combination locks. Choose one that you feel comfortable using and that will be secure enough for your keys.
Next, decide where to place the lockbox. Some people suggest placing it on the car window, which can be a convenient option as it is easily accessible and visible. However, this may not be the best option for those seeking discretion. An alternative is to hide the lockbox somewhere on or in the car, such as under the tire or in a wheel arch, as long as it is still accessible to the person you are leaving the keys for.
If you opt for a magnetic lockbox, you can place it on the car's front spring, which is a discreet location that is also convenient for the key recipient to access. Another option is to use a lockbox with a key or combination lock and place it in a secure location within the airport, such as a luggage storage facility. This option may incur a small fee, but it ensures the keys are kept safe and accessible.
When using a lockbox, it is essential to communicate the lockbox's location and any necessary access codes to the person retrieving the keys. Clear and specific instructions will ensure they can find the keys without difficulty.
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Airport key storage services
Mobile Lockers
Some airports provide mobile lockers that can be accessed through pin codes or key codes. These lockers are usually located within the airport premises and offer a safe place to store your car keys during your travel. It is recommended to check with the airport beforehand to confirm the availability of such lockers and understand the associated costs and procedures.
Luggage Storage
If you are unable to find dedicated key storage services, consider utilising the luggage storage facilities available at most airports. You can leave your car keys in a sealed envelope with your details written on it and store it along with your luggage. This option typically incurs a small fee, but it provides a secure and convenient solution for key storage.
Magnetic Key Boxes
Another option is to use a magnetic key box that can be discreetly attached to a hidden area of your car, such as the front spring or under the vehicle. These boxes are designed to securely hold your car keys, and you can provide the access code or combination to the authorised person picking up the car. This method ensures that the keys remain with the vehicle, eliminating the need for airport storage services.
Key Handoff to Concierge
In some cases, you may be able to hand over your car keys directly to the airport concierge or parking staff. This option usually involves placing the keys in a sealed envelope with relevant details and instructions. However, it is important to inquire about the specific procedures and requirements of the airport beforehand to ensure a smooth process.
Key Retrieval Services
Certain companies, such as Park'n'Fly, offer key retrieval services at airports. They provide a secure way to hand off your keys to another person or service. Additionally, services like Fedex's "Hold At Location" allow you to ship a package, such as a set of car keys, to a secure location for the recipient to collect at a later time.
When considering airport key storage services, it is essential to prioritise security and convenience. While some travellers opt for hiding their keys in or around their vehicles, it is always best to use official airport services or recommended alternatives to ensure the safety of your keys and vehicle.
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Posting keys to recipient
If you need to post your car keys to a recipient at the airport, there are several options you can consider:
Mailing the keys in advance
If you have two sets of keys, you can mail one set of keys to the recipient in advance. This will allow them to access the car upon their arrival at the airport. You can keep the other set with you to drop off the car. If the recipient requires two sets of keys, you can mail the second set to their accommodation or destination after you have dropped off the car. Alternatively, you can hold on to the second set and use it to pick up your car when you return.
Using a postal service
You can use a postal service, such as FedEx, to ship the keys to the recipient at the airport. FedEx offers a service called "Hold At Location", where you can ship a package to a FedEx location, and they will hold it for the recipient for up to 7 days. The recipient simply needs to show ID to collect the package. This option ensures that the keys are securely held and allows for a flexible pickup time for the recipient.
Airport lockers
Some airports provide mobile lockers or safety deposit boxes that can be accessed using pin codes or key codes. You can place the keys in one of these lockers and provide the recipient with the locker number and access code. This option offers a convenient and secure way to transfer the keys at the airport.
Luggage storage
Many airports offer luggage storage services for a small fee. You can place the keys in a small cardboard box or envelope with the recipient's details written on it and hand it over to the luggage storage facility. The recipient can then collect the keys from the same facility upon their arrival.
Magnetic lock box
If you want to ensure the keys are securely attached to the car, you can use a magnetic lock box. Place the lock box somewhere out of sight on the car, such as the front spring or suspension. Provide the recipient with the code or key to access the lock box and retrieve the keys upon their arrival.
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Using a spare key
Leaving a spare car key at the airport is a convenient option when you can't meet someone in person to hand over your car keys. Here are some tips for doing so securely:
Having a spare car key can provide a sense of security and flexibility when it comes to leaving your car at the airport. Here are some ways to utilise that spare key effectively:
Mail the Spare Key in Advance
If you have the time and opportunity, mailing the spare key to the recipient in advance of their arrival can be a simple solution. This way, they will have the key before they even get to the airport, and you can continue using your car until you leave. This option does require some planning, as you'll need to consider the logistics and timing of mailing the key to align with their arrival.
Leave the Key with Airport Services
Some airports offer key storage services or luggage storage facilities where you can leave an envelope with the key inside for the recipient to collect upon their arrival. This option usually incurs a small fee, but it ensures the key is kept securely and can be conveniently retrieved by the intended person.
Hide the Key on Your Car
If you'd prefer to keep the key closer at hand, you can hide the spare key on or near your car. Here are some suggestions for doing so:
- Use a magnetic lock box: Attach a magnetic key box to a discreet area of your car, such as the front spring or under the vehicle. Ensure it's out of sight and secure.
- Hide the key in a wheel arch: Both the front and rear wheel arches can be used to hide a key. This option may be less secure, but it can be a quick solution if you're in a hurry.
- Use a lockbox on the window: Place a lockbox with the key inside on the car window and provide the recipient with the code to open it.
- Hide the key behind the license plate: This option keeps the key on the car itself and is less likely to be noticed by passersby.
- Use a key with a different chip: Make a copy of your key without the chip or with a different chip that doesn't start the car. Hide this key somewhere on the car, and keep the original key with you or in a secure location.
Additional Considerations
When leaving your car keys at the airport, it's essential to consider the security of your vehicle and the convenience of the key pickup process. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Test the key's location: If you hide the key in or around your car, ensure you test the location beforehand. Place the key, lock the car, and then try to retrieve the key to ensure it is accessible when needed.
- Consider keyless entry: If your car has keyless entry, remember that the key fob may need to be relatively close to the car for it to start. Keep this in mind when choosing a hiding place.
- Remove the key fob battery: If you're concerned about someone accessing your car while you're away, consider removing the key fob battery and hiding it separately. This adds an extra layer of security, as the car won't start without the battery, even if the fob is found.
By following these suggestions, you can ensure that your spare car key is securely and conveniently left at the airport for the intended recipient to collect.
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