With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to roll down your windows, turn up the music, and hit the road. Whether you're heading to the hills, the beach, or the countryside, there is nothing quite like a summer road trip. However, before you put the ignition on, one thing you should not overlook is vehicle insurance, specifically its add-ons.
While your standard policy might be enough for daily city commutes, long road journeys expose you to different kinds of risks. That’s where car insurance add-ons come to your rescue. These help enhance your extent of coverage for specific situations that often arise during travel.
If you're planning a summer road trip, here's a guide to the top summer road trip insurance add-ons that you should consider before you rev the engine.
How Insurance Add-ons for Road Trips Can Be Life Savers?
Your regular car insurance plans is designed to give basic protection. It is likely to cover things like accidents, theft, or damage from natural disasters. However, going on a long road trip is way different from your daily drive.
When you travel long distances, many things can go wrong. Your car might break down, get into an accident, or even get stolen. Therefore, you need extra cover in the form of insurance add-ons.
These car insurance add-ons provide extra protection against potential issues that may arise during your trip. They help you drive with less worry, knowing that your insurance will cover more than just the basics. Just like a POSP insurance advisor would suggest, tailor your insurance to your real-world needs. Many travelers mistakenly assume that their standard car insurance covers every eventuality, only to realize its limitations when something goes wrong far from home.
For example, a minor engine issue in your city might be an easy fix, but that same issue during a trip through the hills can turn into a logistical nightmare. Car insurance POSP agents frequently see cases where simple add-ons, such as roadside assistance, could have made a huge difference. Getting these extra protection options ensures you won't be left stranded or broke when misfortune strikes on the way.
So, before your next summer road trip, get you policy road trip-ready. Must-Have Vehicle Insurance Add-ons for Summer Road Trips
Must-Have Vehicle Insurance Add-ons for Summer Road Trips
Let’s take a look at the top vehicle insurance add-ons you should definitely consider this summer.
|
Add-on Options |
How it Works |
Why is It Essential for Road Trips? |
Best For |
|
Roadside Assistance (RSA) Cover |
It helps you get emergency aid should your car break down. The range of services includes towing, battery jump-start, fuel delivery, etc. |
It is useful when you are stuck on highways, in unfamiliar areas, or on remote roads. |
Travelers in remote or unfamiliar areas. |
|
Engine Protection Cover |
It covers engine damage due to water, oil leakage, or mechanical failure. These aspects are unlikely to be covered under normal policies. |
Driving in heat, hills, or flood-prone areas can harm engines. This saves on high repair costs. |
New car owners or those visiting rough weather locations. |
|
Zero Depreciation Cover |
It ensures full claim on replaced parts without depreciation deductions. |
Maximizes your claim amount if you have an accident on your trip. |
Cars under 5 years old or users wanting full claim settlement. |
|
Consumables Cover |
It covers the cost of small parts and fluids used during car repair, such as engine oil, nuts, bolts, etc. |
Long trips may lead to wear and tear. It helps reduces extra repair expenses |
Long-distance drivers or high-mileage travelers |
|
Return to Invoice (RTI) Cover |
It lets you claim the full invoice value (original price + taxes) if the car is stolen or damaged beyond repair. |
Ensures full recovery in case of theft or total loss, especially helpful on road trips. |
Owners of new or expensive cars. |
|
PA Cover for Passengers |
It extends accident coverage to co-passengers, not just the driver. |
Offers financial support to family or friends in the car during an accident. |
Families or group travelers. |
|
Key Replacement Cover |
It pays for the cost of replacing lost/stolen keys or reprogramming smart keys. |
It is a lifesaver if you have lost the keys during travel. |
Forgetful drivers or people visiting busy tourist locations. |
Tips for Choosing the Right Car Insurance for Road Trips
To ensure you get the best road trip vehicle insurance, keep the following tips in mind:
Review your current policy – Understand what your existing policy covers and where it falls short. It helps prevent being underinsured.
Consider your travel route – Always remember! Hilly terrains, hot places, and flood-prone areas are likely to require special covers, such as engine protection.
Evaluate your car’s age and condition – Newer cars benefit more from zero depreciation and RTI cover.
Travel companions matter – If you're not travelling solo, make sure you have personal accident cover for your passengers.
The Cost of Add-ons vs the Cost of Not Having Them
One of the biggest myths about car insurance add-ons is that they are expensive. However, most add-ons come at a nominal extra cost. Also, you must not forget that by paying that nominal cost, you can save thousands in the event of an accident. For instance, RSA might add a bit to your premium, but it could save you hours of trouble (and towing fees) when stranded.
Insurance professionals, including those specializing in POSP insurance, advise purchasing travel add-ons for long-distance trips.
Conclusion
Before you kickstart the engine, take a few minutes to review your insurance policy properly. Spending a little extra on buying the right add-ons will pay off when you need it the most in the most unexpected moments.
Make your road trip unforgettable. Get the right car insurance to ensure peace of mind and let the journey be all about the experience.
