As a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are several essential things you need to keep in mind to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. From mail forwarding to insurance policies and medical emergencies, this article will provide you with some valuable tips to help you plan and prepare for your trip.
Mail Forwarding and Cancelling Subscriptions
One of the first things you need to do is to arrange for mail forwarding and cancelling newspaper subscriptions. However, it's important to note that some mail cannot be forwarded. Make sure to arrange directly with your financial institution to send mail to your winter address. You can also ask a trusted friend, neighbour, or relative to check your mail every week.
Review Your House Insurance Policy
It's essential to review your house insurance policy before leaving. Some policies require a responsible adult to check into your home regularly if you are away for extended periods. If you're relying on a friend or family member to inspect your home, ask them to document their visits to help in the event of an insurance claim.
Auto Insurance Coverage
If you're leaving your vehicle in Canada, you need to review your auto insurance coverage. Many snowbirds opt to change their car insurance coverage to only fire and theft, but if your vehicle is financed or leased, you may be required to keep it fully insured at all times. Review your lease agreement and/or financing terms before downgrading your auto insurance.
Plan for Medical Emergencies
Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, so it's crucial to plan for them before you leave. Familiarize yourself and your travelling companions with the location, contact information, and hours of clinics, hospitals, dentists, pharmacies, and other medical professionals near your vacation destination. Having this information readily accessible could make all the difference in the event of a medical emergency.
Speak to a Travel Insurance Professional
Finally, speaking to a travel insurance professional is vital to ensure you have coverage for all aspects of your trip. No two people are alike, and no two vacation plans are alike either. Make sure to have a thorough conversation with a travel insurance professional to ensure your trip is covered adequately.
