Author: Julie Cygan

Summary

A vacation should be a time to relax—not worry about what might happen back home. Whether you’re heading to a cabin, exploring another state, or taking a weekend camping trip, a little preparation can help protect your home, belongings, and peace of mind. Taking a few simple steps before you leave can reduce risks and ensure you have the right insurance coverage if the unexpected happens.

Key Takeaways

• Secure your home before leaving on vacation.
• Review your homeowners and auto insurance coverage before your trip.
• Understand what your insurance covers while traveling.
• Protect your valuables and important documents.
• Prepare for emergencies before you leave.
• Notify a trusted neighbor or family member that you’ll be away.
• Enjoy your vacation with greater confidence knowing you’ve planned ahead.

Vacation Without Worry: Insurance Tips Before You Leave Home

Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Families head to the lake, campers fill Michigan’s beautiful campgrounds, and many Upper Peninsula residents take road trips to visit family or explore new destinations. While planning where you’ll stay and what you’ll pack is exciting, it’s just as important to think about protecting your home while you’re away.

Unfortunately, an empty home can become an attractive target for thieves, and summer storms can cause damage when no one is around to notice. Taking a little time to prepare before leaving can save you from returning home to unexpected surprises.

Start With a Home Security Check

One of the easiest ways to discourage burglars is to make your home appear occupied.

Before leaving:

• Lock every door and window.
• Secure garage doors and sheds.
• Set interior and exterior lights on timers.
• Stop newspaper deliveries if applicable.
• Have someone collect your mail.
• Avoid leaving spare keys outside.

Smart home technology has also made it easier than ever to monitor your property remotely. Video doorbells, security cameras, and smart locks allow homeowners to receive alerts and check on their homes from almost anywhere.

Be Careful What You Share Online

It’s tempting to post vacation photos as they happen, but announcing that you’re hundreds of miles away may also announce that your home is empty.

Instead, consider waiting until you return home before sharing photos from your trip. Your memories will still be just as meaningful, and your home will remain less vulnerable.

Ask Someone You Trust to Keep an Eye on Things

A trusted friend, neighbor, or family member can provide an extra layer of protection.

Ask them to:

• Pick up your mail.
• Check for storm damage.
• Move trash cans if needed.
• Water plants.
• Contact you if something looks unusual.

This is especially valuable in the Upper Peninsula, where summer thunderstorms and high winds can quickly bring down tree branches or cause power outages.

Review Your Homeowners Insurance

Before leaving, take a few minutes to review your homeowners insurance policy.

Ask yourself:

• Is my coverage up to date?
• Have I made improvements to my home recently?
• Have I purchased expensive electronics or jewelry?
• Would my deductible still be manageable if I had to file a claim?

Many homeowners don’t realize their insurance needs have changed until after a loss occurs. An annual review can help ensure your coverage keeps pace with your life.

Don’t Forget Your Auto Insurance

If you’re taking a road trip, your vehicle should be just as prepared as you are.

Review your policy to confirm:

• Liability limits.
• Collision and comprehensive coverage.
• Roadside assistance.
• Rental reimbursement coverage.
• Emergency contact information.

A quick review before your trip can prevent confusion if you experience an accident far from home.

Know What’s Covered While Traveling

Many people assume everything they own is protected everywhere they go. While homeowners insurance often provides some protection for personal belongings away from home, coverage limits and exclusions may apply.

Items like laptops, cameras, jewelry, and sporting equipment may have specific limits depending on your policy.

If you’re traveling with valuable items, ask your insurance professional whether additional coverage would be beneficial.

Prepare for Summer Storms

Summer weather in Michigan can change quickly.

Before leaving:

• Trim dead tree branches.
• Bring patio furniture indoors if storms are expected.
• Secure grills and outdoor equipment.
• Close and lock windows.
• Disconnect unnecessary electronics.

These simple steps can reduce the chance of damage while you’re away.

Create a Vacation Checklist

A written checklist helps ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Consider including:

• Lock all doors and windows.
• Set thermostat appropriately.
• Turn off unnecessary appliances.
• Empty trash.
• Water plants.
• Check smoke detector batteries.
• Test security system.
• Pack insurance cards.
• Save emergency phone numbers.
• Confirm someone is checking your home.

Checking each item before you leave can help you begin your vacation with confidence.

Store Important Documents Safely

Keep copies of important information somewhere secure.

This might include:

• Insurance policy numbers.
• Emergency contacts.
• Identification.
• Medical insurance cards.
• Travel reservations.

Having digital copies stored securely can be especially helpful if your wallet or luggage is lost.

Consider an Umbrella Policy

Vacations often involve activities that increase liability exposure, including boating, renting vacation homes, or hosting family gatherings.

An umbrella policy can provide additional liability protection beyond your home and auto insurance policies, offering another layer of financial security.

Enjoy the Trip—Not the Worry

Vacations are meant to create memories, not stress. Spending a little extra time preparing your home and reviewing your insurance coverage can make a significant difference if something unexpected happens while you’re away.

Whether you’re spending the weekend on Lake Superior, camping in the Hiawatha National Forest, visiting family downstate, or taking a cross-country road trip, knowing you’ve taken steps to protect your home allows you to focus on enjoying every moment.

Preparation doesn’t take long, but it provides something every traveler appreciates—peace of mind.

As you make your summer travel plans, now is also an excellent time to review your insurance coverage. If you have questions about your homeowners, auto, umbrella, or recreational vehicle insurance, the team at The Elder Agency is ready to help. We can review your current policies, answer your questions, and help ensure you’re properly protected before your next adventure. Contact The Elder Agency today for personalized guidance and the confidence to travel knowing your insurance is working for you.