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“Ensure your handbrake is applied and chock your wheels. It’s important to never drive through floodwaters and be conscious of storm surges if you’re parked near the beach.”
NRMA Insurance sees a sharp rise in extreme weather claims during summer. Since 2020, wild weather claims have grown by 20 per cent, twice as many as collision-related claims.
“We witness an annual spike in caravan damage claims related to extreme weather in the summer holidays, particular in the first few weeks of a new year,” says Lindsay. “People might be surprised to learn dozens of NRMA Insurance customers’ caravans are struck by lightning each year. Since 2020, we’ve had 89 claims for lightning strikes.
“In that late summer period, into February, we receive the bulk of caravan lighting strike claims, as severe thunderstorms hit.”
While the summer holidays are the peak season for caravan adventures, they also coincide with a period of extreme weather in Australia.
Smarter caravan travel
In their caravan travels, from Busselton to Kakadu and back, Bryce and Chelsea have faced significant weather challenges, ranging from cyclones, floods and severe thunderstorms. Their message for seasoned and first-time caravanners is the same: always plan travel routes ahead and be extra careful in wild weather.
“Park wisely and always check for any dangers above like large trees. When in doubt, pack away any awning or items outside early, not last minute.
“If a storm is approaching, make sure your water tanks are full of emergency drinking water, your jerrycans are topped up with petrol as some petrol stations can lose power or have contaminated fuel after flooding.”
Flood, storm and fire coverage is included as standard under NRMA Insurance caravan policies. Customers can also add Lay Up cover to reduce their premium and level of protection, while their caravan is parked at home and not being used for exploration.
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