Summer is the season of adventure, whether it’s a long road trip, a family vacation or just spending more time outdoors. But while you’re busy soaking up the sun, don’t forget to protect the things that help make summer great -- your car, your home and all that expensive sports gear. A little insurance checkup now could save you from a financial sunburn later.
Hit the Road, but Check Your Auto Insurance First
Before you load up the car for that epic summer road trip, take a few minutes to review your auto insurance policy. Are your coverage limits high enough to handle an unexpected fender bender? If you’re renting a car at your destination, does your policy extend to rental coverage, or will you need to buy extra insurance? And what about roadside assistance -- are you covered if your car decides to take a vacation of its own?
If you’ve added a teen driver to your policy recently, summer is a great time to check for discounts. Many insurers offer lower rates for good students or those who have completed defensive driving courses. A little research could free up extra cash for more road-trip snacks (because let’s be honest, gas station snacks are half the fun).
Read Next: PCS Season Survival Guide: Financial Tips for Military Families on the Move
Vacation-Proof Your Home and Belongings
Heading out of town for a summer getaway? Don’t make it easy for burglars to turn your home into their vacation spot. Before you go, review your homeowners or renters insurance to make sure you have enough coverage for theft or damage.
If you’ve recently upgraded any big-ticket items -- think home entertainment systems, laptops or that fancy new grill -- double-check that your policy covers them adequately. Some policies have limits on high-value items, so you may need to add additional coverage.
Also, consider taking a quick video inventory of your belongings before you leave. In the unfortunate event of a break-in, having a record of what you own can make filing a claim much smoother. And while you’re at it, set up smart home security features, such as timed lights or video doorbells, to keep an eye on things while you’re away.
Don’t Forget About Your Summer Toys
From e-bikes and paddleboards to golf clubs and kayaks, summer hobbies come with expensive gear. The problem? Standard homeowners or renters insurance may not fully cover all these items, especially if they get damaged or stolen while you’re out and about.
Check with your insurer to see whether you need additional coverage for high-value equipment. If you’ve picked up an e-bike or a high-end road bike, for example, these often require special endorsements or separate policies. The last thing you want is to be out thousands of dollars, because someone else thought your new gear looked too good to pass up.
Final Thought: Stay Safe and Covered
Summer should be about fun, relaxation and making great memories, not financial stress. A little insurance review before the season gets into full swing can help you avoid costly surprises. So before you hit the road, take a trip to your insurance provider’s website or give them a call. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
Now, go enjoy that summer sun -- responsibly, of course!
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