The holiday period is a time for switching off, travelling, entertaining and spending time with family and friends.
Unfortunately, it’s also one of the busiest times of year for insurance claims. Whether you’re heading away or staying put, understanding the most common holiday risks can help you protect your home, car and valuables — and avoid starting the new year with an unwelcome surprise.
Below are the top five things that commonly occur over the holiday season, what to watch out for, and how to minimise your risk.
- Home Break-ins While You’re Away
Christmas and summer holidays are peak times for burglaries, especially when homes are visibly unoccupied. Overflowing mailboxes, dark houses at night and absent cars are clear signals for opportunistic thieves.
What to be aware of:
- Extended periods away from home
- Deliveries left unattended
- Poor lighting or lack of security features
How to minimise the risk:
- Put your mail on hold or have someone collect it
- Use timers on lights and electronics
- Lock all doors, windows and garages
- Avoid advertising your holiday plans on social media in real time
Many insurers require “reasonable care” to be taken when a home is unoccupied, so these steps can also help protect your claim eligibility.
- Storm and Weather-Related Damage
Summer storms, heatwaves and heavy rainfall can cause roof damage, flooding, fallen trees and power surges — all common causes of holiday claims.
What to be aware of:
- Loose roof tiles or gutters blocked by leaves
- Outdoor furniture or decorations becoming airborne
- Electrical damage from lightning or surges
How to minimise the risk:
- Clear gutters and downpipes before leaving
- Secure or store outdoor items
- Trim trees away from buildings
- Consider surge protection for key appliances
Regular home maintenance is one of the simplest ways to reduce weather-related claims and delays.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
With more cars on the road, longer trips, fatigue, and distractions, the holiday period sees a spike in road accidents.
What to be aware of:
- Long-distance driving and unfamiliar roads
- Fatigue and peak-hour traffic
- Increased drink-driving and distracted driving incidents
How to minimise the risk:
- Plan rest breaks on long drives
- Avoid driving when tired or stressed
- Stick to speed limits and drive defensively
- Ensure your vehicle is serviced before travel
It’s also important to check that your insurance covers any additional drivers who may be using your vehicle over the holidays.
- Accidental Damage During Entertaining
Holiday gatherings bring joy — and sometimes broken items. Spills on carpets, damaged furniture, broken TVs and cracked benchtops are frequent claims during this period.
What to be aware of:
- Busy homes with kids and guests
- Increased alcohol consumption
- Outdoor entertaining hazards
How to minimise the risk:
- Keep valuables away from high-traffic areas
- Supervise children around fragile items
- Check whether your policy includes accidental damage cover
Understanding what your policy does and doesn’t cover before entertaining can prevent disappointment later.
- Travel-Related Loss or Theft
Whether travelling interstate or overseas, lost luggage, stolen valuables and travel delays are common over the holidays.
What to be aware of:
- Unattended bags in airports and accommodation
- Carrying high-value items
- Travel disruptions due to weather or peak demand
How to minimise the risk:
- Keep valuables in carry-on luggage
- Use hotel safes when available
- Ensure you have adequate travel insurance before departing
Travel insurance is essential, particularly during peak seasons when disruptions are more likely.
Final Thoughts
The holiday period should be about enjoying time with loved ones — not dealing with avoidable insurance claims. A little preparation, regular maintenance and a quick policy review can go a long way in protecting what matters most.
Being proactive now could save you time, stress and money when the celebrations are over.
If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.
This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.
(Feedsy Exclusive)