As the holiday season is upon us, more people are hitting the roads to visit loved ones or enjoy winter getaways. While planning your trip, consider how auto insurance coverage plays into your holiday travel. Here are seven things you need to know about your coverage when you’re traveling during the holidays.

1. Out-of-State Coverage

Most standard auto insurance policies offer coverage across all U.S. states. However, the minimum amount of auto liability coverage you must carry varies depending on each state’s laws. If you get into an accident in a state with a higher minimum coverage requirement than your home state’s, your policy usually adjusts to meet those requirements.

If you are traveling across the U.S. border, however, you should check with your insurance agent since some policies heavily restrict or even exclude coverage outside the United States.

2. Collision & Comprehensive Coverage for Winter Hazards

Ice, snow, and wet roads make winter driving risky. If you plan to drive in areas with severe winter weather, your collision and comprehensive coverage can play a central role. Collision insurance helps cover damages if your vehicle skids on ice or you’re involved in an accident with another driver.

Comprehensive coverage protects you from non-collision events, like damage caused by a fallen tree, a flood, or flying debris. It is not included in a basic policy, so ask your agent about adding it.

3. Rental Car Coverage

Many auto insurance policies extend coverage to rental vehicles. This means that, if you’re renting a car for holiday travel, your liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages also may apply to the rental.

Be aware, though, that rental car agencies often encourage extra insurance. You might consider the agency’s coverage if your policy doesn’t cover rentals, if you have high deductibles, or if you prefer added protection.

4. Roadside Assistance

Breakdowns are never welcome but are especially challenging when traveling. Roadside assistance can help if your vehicle has a flat tire, your battery dies, or you run out of fuel. Many policies offer optional roadside assistance, which can be worth the extra investment during holiday travel.

Confirm with your insurance company the scope of roadside services it covers and whether it offers out-of-state assistance. If your policy doesn’t include this option, some third-party plans can provide nationwide support during your trip.

5. Protect Belongings with Theft Coverage

During holiday travel, vehicles are often laden with gifts and other valuables. If your car is broken into, know that auto insurance usually doesn’t cover personal items. Instead, personal belongings might be protected by homeowners or renters insurance.

Confirm that your homeowners or renters insurance covers belongings left in your vehicle and consider additional personal property coverage if necessary. Precautions like parking in well-lit areas and hiding valuables also can deter potential thieves.

6. Increased Liability Risks During High-Traffic Seasons

With more cars on the road, the chances of accidents rise during the holidays. Having sufficient liability insurance is crucial as it helps cover costs if you’re responsible for an accident that injures another driver or damages their vehicle.

Holiday travel is an ideal time to review your liability limits. Since medical and legal costs can be steep, opting for higher liability limits can offer greater financial protection if an accident occurs.

7. Policy Exclusions

If you are taking your vehicle on a business trip this winter, talk to your insurance agent about coverage. Most personal auto policies exclude business use. Additionally, allowing an unlicensed driver to operate your vehicle can lead to denial of accident claims, so be sure anyone you lend the keys to has a valid license.

Help protect your finances during holiday travel by reviewing your auto policy’s details, updating coverage if necessary, and knowing what to expect in case of an incident. And don’t forget to check your homeowners insurance to make sure all the nifty gifts you are toting also are covered for theft or damage.

For help finding the best personal auto insurance coverage for you, request a quote today.