FARGO, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – As college students across North Dakota prepare to return to campus, AAA is urging students and their families to review their insurance policies to ensure they are adequately protected, a media release states.

Skyler McKinley, regional director of public affairs for AAA, emphasized the importance of updating insurance coverage as students embark on new chapters in their lives. “Insurance isn’t something you can just set and forget,” McKinley said. “As your life changes, your insurance should change with you—especially when starting your adult life. Stay protected and save money by making sure your insurance keeps up.”

For students living in dorms, most personal belongings are covered under their parent’s homeowners or renters insurance policies. However, high-value items like computers may be subject to coverage limits, prompting families to consider purchasing additional coverage.

Students residing off-campus are advised to secure renters insurance to protect their belongings and provide liability coverage in case of injuries on their property. AAA highlights that renters insurance is both affordable and essential.

Additional recommendations include leaving unnecessary valuables at home, creating a detailed inventory of items brought to campus, and taking precautions against theft by locking dorm rooms and never leaving belongings unattended in public areas.

For those bringing a car to college, AAA advises checking with insurance providers to ensure coverage extends to out-of-state schools and that state minimum liability requirements are met. Parents may also consider removing students from their policies if they are not taking a car to campus, potentially leading to savings.

AAA encourages students and their families to consult with their insurance agents to explore discounts and confirm adequate coverage before heading back to school.