Key Takeaways: It’s summer in the U.S.and the great American road trip is in full swing.With the pandemic firmly in our rearview mirror and many countries experiencing a backlash towards American tourists, more travelers than ever are choosing road trips and domestic travel over visiting international destinations.

Part of the allure is the idea of hitting the road and experiencing the freedom of a truly carefree vacation.However, to experience real peace of mind, it’s crucial to plan for the unexpected, and that means understanding that your road trip insurance coverage is equally as important as where you are going to stay, which route you want to follow, and which snacks to pack.With that in mind, we have developed the “Summer Road Trip Insurance Checklist” as a tool to ensure travelers are protected throughout their trip.

Road Travel During Summer Months Can Be Unpredictable As you start to plan your summertime getaway, remember that travel can be unpredictable during the warm summer months when there are far more people on the roads and highways.With proper insurance planning, you can head off on an adventure with confidence.Remember to make allowances for things like: Does Your Auto Insurance Cover Road Trips? Most standard auto insurance offers coverage while you are driving in the U.S.

and Canada, but to be safe, it would be a good idea to verify the specifics of your existing coverage, e.g., full coverage vs partial coverage, etc.Here are the main types of coverage you may currently have, which would be in place throughout your road trip: Liability Liability coverage covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to the other person’s vehicle.It does not include coverage for your vehicle.

Liability insurance is required in most states, although some states do take a bond in lieu of liability coverage.Check your .Collision Collision coverage covers your car if it is damaged in an accident—no matter who is responsible for the accident.

You can choose to opt out of this insurance unless you are leasing or financing your vehicle.All leasing and financial companies require that you provide full coverage, including collision insurance, to protect their position.Comprehensive Comprehensive coverage protects you if your vehicle is stolen, damaged by weather (like hail or falling objects), or vandalized.

When traveling, this can be particularly important coverage to carry.Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Medical coverage will cover you or your passengers if anyone is injured during an accident regardless of fault.Roadside Assistance If your car has to be towed or jumpstarted, a flat tire fixed, or you are locked out, roadside assistance will help you anywhere in the U.S.

Additional Questions When planning your trip, be sure your current coverage addresses these things: The Ultimate Summer Road Trip Insurance Checklist Check Your Existing Policy Details Add Roadside Assistance (if you don’t currently have it) Confirm Rental Car Coverage (if needed) Review of Medical Coverage Options Travel Insurance for Road Trips if You Opt for Additional Protection Trip Interruption/Emergency Lodging Coverage Coverage for Belongings in the Car Don’t Forget Your Proof of Coverage and Emergency Info When you are packing for your trip, don’t forget your important documents related to all types of insurance coverage.Today, downloading the app is the easiest way to have 24/7 access to all the information you need, but it’s important to also carry a hard copy in case you find yourself in a location without internet coverage.Be sure to include these items with your other important documents, e.g., drivers’ licenses or state-issued IDs, passports, auto registrations, vaccine and prescription lists, etc.: Still Not Sure? Here Are Some Real-Life Road Trip Scenarios Whether it’s auto insurance, homeowners or renters insurance, or travel insurance, here are three scenarios where coverage was crucial to the traveler(s).

NOTE: Some insurance policies have a limit of 10% of personal property coverage limits if the theft or damage occurs away from the home.How to Stay Safe on a Road Trip Like at home, reviewing and planning for potential problems is the first step in staying safe.When you are planning a road trip, it’s important to do the same.

Here are some tips that will help keep you and your family safe.Before You Leave While You’re Driving Be Weather Aware Passenger & Pet Safety When You Stop Final Thoughts…Make Insurance Your Co-Pilot When planning a well-prepared and fun summer road trip, having the proper insurance is essential for a safe, worry-free adventure.While your auto insurance is key, you should also consider your roadside assistance, homeowners or renters insurance, as well as the need for travel insurance when making your final plans.

Auto insurance isn’t just about worst-case scenarios—just having it gives you peace of mind so that you can enjoy your road trip from start to finish.When reviewing your insurance needs, be sure to speak to a licensed insurance agent who can customize your coverage before they hit the road.to get quotes on auto, homeowners, or renters insurance and be ready when you hear the ‘call of the road.’