When setting off on a road trip, it’s an exciting time! Road trips are incredible because of all of the scenery, experiences, and the open road. But as enticing as they are, road trips can be risky and you can’t always expect how things will turn when on the road, whether that’s a long trip or not. You will have a standard car insurance policy that will offer bare-bones reasonable protection; unfortunately, it doesn’t guarantee you will be protected from all of the particular uncertainties that come with travelling great lengths on the road. This is where car insurance add-ons become much easier and exciting. You can add a few car insurance add-ons to your typical insurance policy. You’ll have good comfort knowing that if something happens…your financial impact is minimized.
When it comes to planning a much anticipated road trip, if it’s not already in your bucket list, here are five car insurance add-ons that every traveller should consider before they hit the road: which I refer to in this article throughout.
1. Roadside Assistance Cover
Imagine being stranded on a remote highway with a dead battery or a flat tire. Roadside assistance is a lifesaver in such scenarios. This add-on provides emergency services like towing, battery jump-starts, fuel delivery, and even minor repairs on the spot. With SimplyQuote’s temporary car insurance tool, you can easily add roadside assistance to your policy for the exact duration of your trip. This flexibility ensures you’re covered only when you need it most, making it ideal for spontaneous or seasonal travel plans.
Why it’s essential:
- Offers 24/7 support, especially useful in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
- Saves you time and money by avoiding costly towing or repair bills.
- Provides peace of mind knowing help is just a call away.
For travellers venturing into remote or less populated regions, roadside assistance is a must-have safety net.
2. Zero Depreciation Cover
Standard car insurance policies typically factor in depreciation when settling claims, meaning you receive less money for damaged parts based on their age and wear. The Zero Depreciation add-on ensures you get the full cost of repairs or replacements without depreciation deductions.
Why it’s essential:
- Maximizes your claim amount, especially important for newer or expensive vehicles.
- Reduces out-of-pocket expenses after an accident.
- Ideal for road trips where the risk of minor accidents or damage is higher due to long-distance driving.
This add-on is particularly beneficial for cars under five years old and those who want comprehensive financial protection during their travels.
3. Engine Protection Cover
Road trips often take you through varied terrains and weather conditions, which can put extra strain on your car’s engine. Engine Protection Cover safeguards against damages caused by overheating, water ingress, oil leaks, or mechanical failures that are usually not covered under standard policies.
Why it’s essential:
- Covers costly repairs or replacements of engine components.
- Protects you from financial burden due to non-accidental engine damage.
- Especially useful if your route includes flood-prone areas, hilly regions, or extreme weather conditions.
This add-on helps ensure your engine stays protected no matter where your journey takes you.
4. Passenger Cover
While your personal accident cover may protect you as the driver, passengers in your vehicle often remain uninsured under standard policies. Passenger Cover extends accident protection to your co-travelers, covering medical expenses, hospitalization, and compensation in case of disability or death.
Why it’s essential:
- Provides financial security for family, friends, or colleagues travelling with you.
- Covers ambulance fees and treatment costs for passengers injured in an accident.
- Offers peace of mind when travelling with multiple passengers.
This add-on is a thoughtful inclusion for anyone who frequently travels with others, ensuring everyone on board is protected.
5. Consumables Cover
During repairs, consumable items like engine oil, lubricants, nuts, bolts, and filters are often not covered by standard insurance policies. Consumables Cover reimburses these expenses, which can add up, especially after extensive repairs following a road trip mishap.
Why it’s essential:
- Covers everyday items used during car repairs that standard policies exclude.
- Helps reduce unexpected repair bills.
- Particularly useful for long-distance travellers whose vehicles may experience more wear and tear.
This add-on is a small investment that can save you from additional out-of-pocket costs during your journey.
More tips for selecting suitable add-ons for your road trip
- Understand your route and surroundings: Think about the terrain, weather conditions and areas you will be traveling through. For example, engine protection may be important if you are traveling in flood-prone regions, or through the mountains.
- Consider the age and condition of your vehicle: A newer vehicle may benefit more from zero depreciation and consumables cover whereas an older vehicle may be more concerned with roadside assist cover (if maybe it breaks down).
- Think about who you travel with: If you frequently travel with family or friends, then passenger cover is an important consideration.
- Consider your current policy: Get a good understanding of what your current policy covers, and what your policy does not cover, so that you can find any potential gaps which could be covered with add-ons.
Drive Confidently with the Right Protection
A road trip is about having fun along the way and eliminating worry about things that could go wrong. With the right car insurance add-ons, you can jump in your vehicle and feel good knowing that you have comprehensive coverage that will help you navigate the unique risks that come with travel and a road trip. You can be good about emergency roadside assistance or ensuring you cover your passengers and your engine. The car insurance add-ons provide great help and assistance beyond typical insurance coverage.
So before you take your next trip, take a good look at your insurance policy and consider these key add-ons. They may cost a little to add to your insurance premium, but they will save you loads of stress and heartache while stopping you from winding up out of pocket while travelling.
Happy travels!
