Ready to head out of town on a car vacation? Temperatures are climbing and everyone is eager for a break. But there are a few things to keep in mind before you leave town in order to keep your possessions and home protected.
Don’t Advertise That You’ll Be Out Of Town
Think about the things that happen around your home on a daily basis, so that your home doesn’t look empty when you leave.
First, contact the Post Office (and the newspaper) and put your services on hold. A full mailbox and a driveway full of newspapers are a sign to thieves that you’re an easy target!
Can you put a few lights on a timer so that your home isn’t dark all night? Even leaving a few lamps on will help. Motion-sensitive lights on your porch and driveway are a great idea. Sudden bright lights will chase most burglars away. It also allows any security cameras to get a good image of the potential intruder.
Have a Trusted Neighbor Keep an Eye on Your Home
Do you have a neighbor that you trust? Let them know of your plans, share your contact number, and consider leaving a spare key just in case.
What if a severe thunderstorm hits while you’re on your car vacation? It could knock out power or even cause a tree in your yard to fall. Your neighbor can make sure that your freezer is back on when the power restores or verify that there aren’t any leaks in the roof from the storm damage! This can help prevent some bad surprises when you get home.
Prepare Your Vehicle for the Trip
Make sure your tires have good tread and are properly inflated. Check to make sure your fluids are filled up, so if you run into rain or bugs on your windshield you have washer fluid to your view of the road clear.
It’s also a good idea to have your oil changed and tires rotated if you are going to be driving a considerable distance. Many a vacation has been ruined by a broken-down car!
When You’re On The Road
One of the most important things to remember is to avoid leaving valuables in the car!
Many people believe that their belongings are covered by car insurance, but that is not the case. The only coverage for your luggage, camping equipment, and computer would be on your homeowner’s insurance and it’s subject to your deductible.
Before you go on your car vacation, make sure your policy offers coverage for roadside assistance and towing. This can be invaluable when you are stranded (or accidentally lock your keys in the car in an unfamiliar town). This coverage is inexpensive and quick to add to your policy.
Have questions about your insurance before your next trip? Call SAV-ON Insurance at 888-867-2866 to discuss your policy or to get a quote!
