Yeah, your buddy's experience with USAA sounds pretty familiar. I've heard similar stories—great deals for some, meh for others. I think you're right about the frequent moves possibly bumping rates up; insurers probably see constant address changes as a risk factor. But retired military might be seen as more stable, so maybe that's why your friend got a better deal? Definitely seems like one of those YMMV situations...
"insurers probably see constant address changes as a risk factor."
Yeah, makes sense they'd factor that in. But I wonder if vehicle type plays into it too? I've got a classic Mustang, and USAA wasn't exactly competitive for me—ended up going specialty insurer instead. Maybe military discounts aren't as helpful when you're insuring something older or collectible...anyone else notice that?
"Maybe military discounts aren't as helpful when you're insuring something older or collectible..."
Yeah, I've noticed the same thing. Military discounts are great for standard daily drivers, but once you get into specialty or classic cars, those big-name insurers like USAA don't always cut it. Had a '72 Corvette a couple years back—ended up going with Hagerty because their rates and coverage options blew everyone else away. Military perks are nice, but sometimes shopping around saves way more cash in the long run...
I've wondered about this too. Had a similar experience when I insured my '89 Porsche 911. USAA quoted me something decent, but when I checked around, specialty insurers were offering way better coverage for almost the same price. Makes me question if military discounts are more marketing than actual savings when it comes to luxury or collectible cars... Has anyone actually found a military discount that beats specialty insurers for classics or higher-end rides?
"Makes me question if military discounts are more marketing than actual savings when it comes to luxury or collectible cars..."
Yeah, I've seen this happen a lot. Military discounts often look good upfront, but specialty insurers tailor their policies specifically for classics and high-end cars—agreed value coverage, mileage flexibility, etc. USAA's great for daily drivers, but for collectibles... not always the best deal.
