Make sure your cover strikes the right chord this summer

Rocking the summer away at Reading or Glastonbury, is an annual highlight for many UK festival goers, but adopting lax attitudes when it comes to protecting valuable belongings could be extremely costly, says Confused.com.

With opportunistic thieves being sure to take advantage of unmanned tents and relaxed attitudes, it is imperative to check that valuable items such as jewellery, cameras, mobile phones, and even mp3 players are adequately insured to cover loss and damage.
The majority of home insurance policies will allow for expensive items to be taken away from the home and still be covered, up to a certain value. However, if items are stolen because they have not been secured, then insurance will automatically become invalid. In addition, claiming on policies will push up home insurance premiums. Being vigilant is the key to avoiding spiralling insurance costs.

Simon Lamble, product director of Confused.com, comments: "It is vital that the prospect of jiving along to Jay-Z, cavorting with the Kaiser Chiefs or moshing with Metallica at this year's festivals, does not overshadow the importance of searching for suitable insurance to cover your belongings. Although levels of theft have been reported to be on the decline at summer festivals, the mix of alcohol, sun and music, makes it all too easy for revellers to forget to keep an eye on valuable possessions. Using facilities on offer such as lockers, or making sure you keep belongings on you or in a safe place, is highly recommended in order that your festival does not become a washout.

"Yet, in addition to keeping your belongings safe, planning ahead and shopping around for the right deal, is the best way to make sure that your cover hits the right note this summer. It is important to double-check policy terms and conditions to ensure that your cover is as comprehensive as possible, by shopping around for the right deal."