Classic car policies are a weird loophole, right? I’ve wondered if it’s because they assume you’re babying those cars and only taking them out on sunny Sundays. But yeah, the math feels off when your “toy” is worth more than your daily beater.
One thing I’ve found helps (though it’s not for everyone) is bundling home and auto, but only after shopping around every couple years. The rates can swing wildly, and some companies just don’t get Alaska driving at all. I tried telematics for a bit, but like you said, it dings you for stuff that’s just normal up here—wildlife, icy roads, even potholes that’ll rattle your teeth. Not worth the stress.
I’m curious if anyone’s had luck with usage-based policies? Like, if you drive less than 5k miles a year, do those actually save money in Alaska, or do they just sound good on paper?
Usage-based policies can be a mixed bag up here. I’ve seen folks save a bit, but like you said, the tech just doesn’t “get” Alaska.
Couldn’t agree more. Had a client get flagged for “hard braking” because a moose wandered into the road—try explaining that to an algorithm. If you’re a super low-mileage driver, sometimes it works out, but honestly? The savings aren’t always worth the hassle unless you’re barely driving. Bundling still seems to beat it most of the time.“it dings you for stuff that’s just normal up here—wildlife, icy roads, even potholes that’ll rattle your teeth.”
“it dings you for stuff that’s just normal up here—wildlife, icy roads, even potholes that’ll rattle your teeth.”
Yeah, that’s been my experience too. The tech just isn’t built for Alaska roads or, honestly, our wildlife. I tried one of those apps last winter and it kept flagging me for “aggressive steering” every time I dodged a pothole or hit a patch of black ice. Bundling with home insurance has saved us more than any of those usage things ever did. Only exception was when we barely drove during the pandemic—then it made sense, but otherwise? Meh.
Honestly, I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had a bit of luck with the usage-based stuff. Yeah, it’s picky, but after I tweaked my routes and slowed down a bit, my rate dropped. Not huge savings, but enough to notice. Maybe it’s just my luck with fewer moose crossings on my commute...
- That’s actually pretty solid—usage-based programs can be a pain to set up, but I’ve seen folks get decent discounts if they’re consistent.
- Not everyone gets lucky with their commute, either… moose crossings are no joke.
- It’s all about the little adjustments—sometimes just changing driving times or routes makes a difference.
- Glad it worked out for you, even if it’s not a windfall. Every bit helps, right?
