Before You Hit the Road: Holiday Travel Tips Every Driver Should Know

The holidays are here and that means it’s road trip season! Whether you’re driving across the state to visit family or heading out for a winter getaway, a little preparation can go a long way toward making your holiday trip safer and smoother.

Before you pack up the car and hit play on your favorite holiday tunes, take a few minutes to make sure your car and your car insurance are ready for the road!

Car Insurance for Road Trips

Before starting your trip, take a moment to review your auto insurance policy. Making sure you have the right car insurance for your road trip can help you avoid surprises if you need to file a claim.

Save this information to your phone or print a copy to put in your glove box:

• Insurance ID Cards
• Roadside assistance phone number: 877-512-6964 (for Kemper Auto)
• Reporting a claim website

Understanding your coverage can help you stay confident and prepared on the road. The following information can be found on your declaration page:

• Who is covered? If you are sharing the driving, make sure everyone who gets behind the wheel is covered by your policy. Listed drivers are named on the policy and include anyone in your household who regularly drives your car. For anyone not listed, double check with your insurance agent to make sure coverage applies.

• Liability limits: Most states require liability (which helps cover costs if you’re at fault in an accident), so you most likely have it. Since different states require different amounts of liability coverage, make sure you meet the minimum requirements for any states you travel through.
• Do you have collision and comprehensive coverage? If you slide on an icy road and hit another car, a guardrail, or even a stray reindeer, collision coverage can help repair your car. If weather directly causes damage (like with hail or flooding) comprehensive coverage would apply.
• Do you have roadside assistance coverage or towing?
  This optional add-on coverage can be especially helpful if you’re far from home and need a tow, tire change, or jump-start.

If you’re not sure what your policy includes, contact your local Kemper Auto agent to go over your options.

How to Prepare Your Car for a Holiday Road Trip

Before setting off, give your vehicle a quick checkup. This can help you avoid problems once you’re on the highway.

Travel preparation checklist:

• Check your tire pressure and tread
• Test your battery and headlights
• Top off windshield washer fluid and antifreeze
• Confirm your wipers are working properly
• Fill up your gas tank and keep it at least half full during the trip

A quick inspection before you leave can help you prevent breakdowns and keep your passengers safe.

Holiday Road Trip Safety Checklist

Even with the best planning, surprises can happen! A road safety kit is a must-have for any long trip.

Here are some essentials to include:

• First aid kit
• Jumper cables
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Blankets and water
• Phone charger
• Reflective triangles or flares
• Basic tools and tire repair kit

Keep your kit in an easy-to-reach spot in your trunk or backseat.

Pro tip: Pack kitty litter! If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, whether in mud or snow, kitty litter can be sprinkled around the tires to soak up moisture and provide more traction. Additionally, the extra weight from the litter helps keep your car steady, allowing it to stay steady on the road.

Set the Mood With a Road Trip Playlist

No road trip is complete without great music! Whether you’re cruising through snowy towns or sunny highways, we’ve created the soundtrack for your trip. Check out our road trip playlist on Spotify, packed with upbeat classics and feel-good favorites to keep everyone singing along.

Now You’re Ready to Go!

A few minutes of preparation today can make for a safer, smoother journey tomorrow. Following our tips can help you navigate the holiday season with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Before you hit the road this holiday season, make sure your coverage can go the distance. Contact your local Kemper Auto agent today to review your policy or get a fast quote.

This material is for general informational purposes only. Products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or all underwriting companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions and conditions of the applicable policy. In all instances, current policy contract language prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting our underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.