How to Get Car Insurance when Traveling Overseas

You may have adequate car insurance when commuting to work and traveling around the country, but your current insurance coverage might not provide benefits when you go overseas. Only some car insurance companies provide extended coverage plans that include insurance for rental cars and coverage for emergency services needed after a car accident overseas. Make sure you're aware of the terms and limitations of an existing policy before you pack your bags.

Here's what you need to know about getting car insurance when traveling overseas:

Inquire about Rental Car Insurance

If your current auto insurance provider doesn't offer coverage or rental cars overseas, your credit card companies may be able to help. When you're booking a car rental using a credit card, check with the credit card company about insurance benefits. Many will offer some type of coverage for rental cars with certain car rental agencies. Just make sure you're aware of the terms and know what you need to do to purchase extended coverage.

Purchase Temporary Insurance

If your current auto insurance policy doesn't offer coverage for cars driven overseas, you can buy temporary car insurance before you fly out of the country. Temporary car insurance will kick in on a certain date and can be set up to expire when you leave the country you're visiting. This can be a convenient way to ensure you have adequate coverage when traveling.

Ask About Overseas Insurance Policies

Some of the larger auto insurance providers offer a separate overseas insurance policy to provide account holders with extended benefits when traveling. These policies can be set up based on the country you are traveling to and most companies offer liability, comprehensive and collision coverage options. If you are planning to travel with your car, you can work with your auto insurance provider to make sure you have coverage while the car is being shipped or is in transit, and is also fully covered when you get to your final destination.

Review Your Travel Insurance Policy

Many people traveling overseas for extended periods of time pick up a travel insurance policy to protect their investment. If you are planning on renting a car or driving a friend's car for a portion of the trip, your travel insurance policy may be able to provide the extra coverage you need. Take some time to review your travel insurance policy's terms and limitations to see if any car-related claims would be covered under the plan. Some companies offer drive protection, rental car damage protection, and medical services in the event you're involved in a serious accident during the course of your trip.

Sources:

Geico - About Overseas Insurance

DMV.org - Overseas Auto Insurance

Access America Travel Insurance & Assistance - Standard Plans