Heading on Vacation? Tips for Making Sure You're Covered While Away
Have you planned any vacations for the summer? Maybe you're heading to the beach or across the country, and the last thing you want to think about is what could go wrong. The reality is, accidents can happen any time, even on vacation, and it's best to be prepared. Many people overlook their policies when planning a trip. Reviewing them ahead of time can save you money, time, and frustration. Let's take a look at some tips for making sure you're covered while away.
Protecting Your Home While You're Gone
Before leaving for your trip, you should make sure your home is properly protected. Many homeowners assume their property is covered no matter what, but if something happens while you're away, you want to be sure you're not left with unexpected expenses or insurance surprises.
Double-check your homeowners or renters' insurance - Things you want to make sure are covered are theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage. Not all standard policies cover everything, and some may have limitations depending on how long you're away or if certain precautions weren't taken.
Make it look like someone's home - One of the best ways to avoid theft is to make it look like people are home. Thieves often look for signs that no one is home, like a dark house or an overflowing mailbox. Consider setting timers on lights in commonly used areas, ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail, and refrain from posting on social media during your trip. Wait until you return home.
Notify your agent if you'll be gone for an extended period - If you're planning on being away for several weeks, it's a good idea to let your insurance agent know. Many policies have limitations if a home is left vacant for 30 days or longer, and you may need to add a special rider or coverage extension to stay fully protected.
Vacant homes are at greater risk for theft, vandalism, and unnoticed damage, so insurers often require notice to keep your policy in good standing.
Auto Insurance and Road Trips
Whether you're hitting the road for a summer getaway or flying somewhere and renting a car, it's essential to make sure your auto insurance covers you and your travel plans.
Your car insurance follows your vehicle - If someone is staying behind and using your car while you're gone, whether it's a family member, friend, or neighbor, make sure they're properly covered under your policy. In Pennsylvania, most auto insurance policies follow the vehicle, not the driver, meaning anyone you've permitted to drive your car is likely covered.
Renting a car for your trip - Many people assume their auto insurance will extend to a rental car, and it often does, but not always. You should check your coverage, confirm what's not included, and if you're driving out of the country, your policy likely will not apply.
Roadside assistance - Long road trips may bring on flat tires, a dead battery, and even locked keys in the car. If you're traveling by car, make sure your policy includes roadside assistance. If it's not part of your coverage, it may be available as an add-on or through a membership like AAA.
Before You Leave, Be Prepared
Before heading on your vacation, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Take photos of important documents such as your insurance cards, passport, and a few valuables around the house. This can be beneficial if something were to go wrong. Make sure you've got your insurance agent's contact info saved in your phone, and take a quick look at your policy limits and deductibles so you know what's covered and what you'd need to pay out of pocket. At Rumbaugh Insurance, we'll help you feel secure and informed with all your travel plans.
Why Talk to a Local Agent Like Rumbaugh Insurance?
Planning a vacation is supposed to be exciting, but making sure you're fully covered shouldn't be something you figure out at the last minute. At Rumbaugh Insurance, we take the time to walk through your plans and help you spot any gaps in coverage before you leave. Since we're local, we understand the needs of families here in Hanover, PA. If something unexpected does happen while you're gone, you won't be stuck calling a 1-800 number. You'll get real help from someone who knows your name and your policy.
Don't let an unexpected event ruin your trip. A quick insurance check-in can go a long way toward a worry-free vacation. Call Rumbaugh Insurance today to make sure you're covered before you head out!