I have a bike rack for my SUV but never use it. I prefer to place my bike laying down in my old crappy looking 2002 Honda CRV which I bought five years ago. (It also serves as my trailhead car when off hiking, road biking, or mtn biking) By putting the rear seat down I just take the front wheel off and then place the bike in the storage area. I can also lock my bike to the car as the metal bar that holds the seat in place is now exposed. I use a thick six foot cable and the thickest quality padlock I could find. The bike is then covered with two blankets. There is a tono cover that is in place over the last section of the storage area. The SUV also has dark tinted windows which helps to make inside items less visible. If I were going on a long trip I would look into storing the bike upright to conserve space. Would also want to use a cover to shield the bike from prying eyes. At home I also keep all my bikes locked up as well when not in use.