Students are eager for spring break, but proper insurance preparation is crucial to avoid issues. Passport processing may take up to nine weeks for international trips. Health insurance coverage may not apply at all destinations. A worry-free vacation starts with reviewing insurance policies, especially for solo child travelers. Your spring break checklist should include travel insurance for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. Reviewing your home’s protection and car insurance for road trips can help you avoid costly surprises.
Protecting Your Home During Spring Break Getaways
Your home faces increased risks of break-ins, water damage, and vandalism during spring break travels. Standard homeowners policies limit coverage for properties left empty beyond 30 days. Spring break trips usually fall within this period, so check your specific policy terms.
Prevent Water Damage While Away
Water damage is the second most common home insurance claim in the U.S. Avoid disasters with these steps:
Turn off your main water valve and drain pipes completely
Inspect exposed pipes, especially under sinks and around water heaters
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent backups
Test your sump pump by adding water to ensure it activates properly
Create a Lived-in Appearance
Smart lighting on timers creates an impression that someone is home, deterring potential intruders. Set up multiple lights to turn on and off at different times instead of leaving a single light on.
Utilize Smart Home Technology
Smart security devices like video doorbells, motion-activated lights, and leak detectors help you monitor your home remotely, providing peace of mind and potential insurance discounts.
Eliminate Security Vulnerabilities
Trim bushes and trees near entry points to remove hiding spots. Secure all entry points, including second-floor windows accessible via porches or railings.
Nickerson Insurance Services, Inc. believes spring break should be about relaxation—not worrying about your home. Ask us to review your homeowners policy to ensure you have the right coverage before your next vacation.
Essential Auto Insurance Coverage for Spring Travellers
Spring Break Road Trips: Is Your Auto Insurance Ready?
Road trips are a favorite way to spend Spring Break, but it’s easy to forget about your auto insurance when you’re focused on the fun. The good news is that your standard policy typically works across all U.S. states and even in Canada—but it’s still important to understand your coverage before you hit the road.
Understanding Coverage in Different States
As you travel from state to state, your insurance automatically adjusts to meet local requirements. That means you’re still covered, but it’s smart to know how your policy works in different places just in case something unexpected happens.
Don’t Forget Roadside Assistance
Having roadside assistance can be a lifesaver during Spring Break. This optional coverage helps with things like towing, flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts. Some plans also help cover food and hotel costs if your car breaks down far from home.
Quick Pre-Trip Insurance Checklist
Make sure your policy allows others to drive your car.
Check if there’s a limit on how far your car can be towed.
Review what’s covered if you rent a car during your trip.
Consider adding extra coverage if you currently only have basic protection.
If a student or friend is borrowing your vehicle, make sure they know where to find the insurance info and what to do in an emergency. Keeping a copy of your insurance contact details in the glove box is a smart move.
At Nickerson Insurance Services, INC., we’re here to help you feel confident before you hit the road. Let us review your auto policy and make sure you’re set for a safe and smooth Spring Break trip.
Understanding Liability Protection for Spring Break Activities
Spring break trips come with liability risks that travellers often miss while planning their vacations. Your activities might include water sports, hosting parties, or staying at rental properties. You need to know about liability protection to avoid financial problems.
Liability Coverage for Vacation Rentals and Hotels
Your homeowners insurance policies usually protect you away from home. This coverage helps if you accidentally damage a rental property or someone gets hurt during your stay. Vacation rentals ask for security deposits, but your homeowners liability insurance adds extra protection against possible claims.
Water Sports and Activity Liability Considerations
Water skiing, jet skiing, and parasailing raise your liability risks during spring break. Water sports businesses need solid liability coverage to be prepared for those risky activities.
Social Host Liability: Spring Break Gatherings
Most states have social host liability laws, which means you could be held responsible if a guest drinks at your home and then hurts someone else. Your homeowners insurance does include liability coverage, but it might not be enough if something goes wrong during a Spring Break party.
Spring break should create memories, not insurance headaches. Nickerson Insurance Services, INC. helps create tailored insurance strategies for your spring break plans. Our Agents ensure you have the right coverage before vacation starts. Don’t let inadequate insurance ruin your getaway and call us today!
