Summer recreation and Auto Theft Awareness: what to know before you go

Summer is when outdoor gear earns its keep. Whether you're loading up bikes for a trail ride, launching a paddleboard at the lake, or packing camping equipment for a weekend getaway, your gear helps you make the most of life in the Pacific Northwest. 

Unfortunately, summer is also a busy season for theft. Vehicle thefts have declined significantly across Washington and Oregon in recent years, but thousands of vehicles are still stolen every year. Outdoor equipment left in or on vehicles can also be an easy target.  
 
Auto Theft Awareness Month is a helpful reminder to review your coverage, understand what’s protected, and take a few simple steps to help prevent losses before they happen. 

Start with prevention 

Before you hit the road, a few simple habits can go a long way: 

• Lock vehicles and trailers whenever they're unattended. 
• Remove valuables from plain sight. 
• Secure bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards with quality locks. 
• Park in well-lit, highly visible areas whenever possible. 
• Consider GPS tracking devices for high-value equipment. 
• Never leave keys in a vehicle, even for a quick stop. 

These small steps can help protect your gear and prevent damage to your vehicle.  

Coverage for summer recreation equipment 

Coverage for outdoor gear can depend on what was stolen, where it was kept, and which policy applies. Homeowners, condo, or renters insurance may help cover personal belongings like bikes, camping gear or paddleboards, even if they’re stolen from your vehicle. Auto insurance typically applies to the vehicle itself and permanently attached equipment. Deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions can vary, so it’s worth checking your policy before summer adventures are in full swing. 

Bikes, camping gear, and other outdoor essentials 

Your homeowners, condo, or renters' policy may provide coverage for many non-motorized recreational items, including: 

• Bicycles and e-bikes 
• Golf clubs 
• Fishing equipment 
• Camping gear 
• Climbing equipment 
• Paddleboards and other non-motorized outdoor gear 

If you’ve recently upgraded your gear, make sure your home inventory reflects what you own. 

Coverage tip: If your gear would be costly to replace, ask your insurance agent whether added coverage makes sense. 

Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards 

Paddle-powered watercraft are popular across the Northwest. Depending on the craft and trailer setup, your homeowners, condo, or renters policy may provide limited coverage. 

For premium kayaks, paddleboards, or trailer setups, ask whether extra protection is appropriate. 

Boats and personal watercraft 

Boats and personal watercraft often need their own insurance coverage, whether you’re cruising Puget Sound or spending weekends at the lake. 

Boat insurance can help protect: 

• Your vessel 
• Passengers 
• Fishing gear and personal belongings 
• Liability exposures on the water 

RVs and travel trailers 

Motorhomes and travel trailers are a significant investment, so it’s worth understanding how your auto, RV, or trailer coverage works before you head out. 

Make sure you understand: 

• What your auto policy covers 
• What requires separate coverage 
• Whether personal belongings inside the RV are adequately protected 

ATVs, motorcycles, and snowmobiles 

ATVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles often require specialized insurance because of their unique risks, use patterns, and liability exposures. 

Before summer riding season picks up, review coverage for the vehicle, accessories, safety gear, and where you plan to ride. 

Do you have the coverage you think you have? 

Not sure whether recreational equipment is covered by your homeowners, renters, condo, or auto policy? You’re not alone. 

Coverage usually depends on: 

• The type of equipment 
• How it's used 
• Where it's stored 
• Its value 
• The coverages you've selected 

A quick policy review before peak recreation season can help you avoid surprises later. 

A little prevention helps keep summer plans on track 

Outdoor gear is part of how we enjoy life in the Northwest. Taking a few simple steps now, like securing your gear, updating your home inventory, and checking how your coverage works, can help prevent headaches later. 

If you’re not sure what’s covered, your PEMCO agent can walk through your policy with you and help you feel ready for the season ahead. You can reach us at 1-800-GO PEMCO (1-800-467-3626).