A little while ago, we had a look at great ways for you to save money on caravan insurance. After seeing my friend go through quite the ordeal when getting her motorbike, I’ve decided to compile a list of things to do when getting a bike insurance policy.
What follows is some of the more basic things that you need to consider – and tips that are often overlooked for that very reason!
Downgrade your ride for the best deal
If you’re only using your chosen bike to get from one place to another, it’s always worth investing in a less powerful bike; insurers will always class more powerful bikes as a hazard to their riders and other motorists, and so raise premiums. Smaller engines also use less fuel, too – think about it!
Use a reliable insurer
After a large number of companies went to the wall or were bought out, people’s insurance deals also went down the pan. As such, it’s worth picking a company that endorses bike tournaments and other big competitions, as they are more high profile; MCE Insurance is an official partner of the British Superbikes, to name one example.
Take a course for accreditation
To reduce premiums further, it’s always worth considering what an advanced riding course could do for you. Consider looking into those offered by the likes of the Institute of Advanced Motorists.
As everyone finds a way to make the most of their summer wardrobes, people overlook the savings that can be had in a future investment in warmer clothing. After all, the price of these kind of items goes through the floor; so long as you know what to buy, you’ll be all set when the usually-average British summer dies a death for another eight or nine months.
So, with this in mind, have a look at the bargains that can be had, with these top three tips to guide you courtesy of Money Monitor:
Ankle boots
Never one to go out of fashion, ankle boots are – if anything – more popular than ever in 2012. They offer practicality and beauty with ease, whether you’re going for a pair of Emu boots or simply a heavy set of Doc Martens. Play it safe with colours such as tan and black, though be a little more exciting if you like – there’s one colour that will turn heads in autumn and winter…
Emerald green
Yep, it’s time for you to turn people green with envy by getting some clothing in this colour. As a great way to stand out from the crowd, people will move away from the more summery staple of Tangerine Tango, which Pantone selected as its colour of 2012. It can be attractive on a tailored jacket, a party dress or even just a pair of jeans.
Knitwear’s your friend
Knitwear is the best way to stay warm and happy in winter, though it’s changing a lot from the bulkier clothing that was popular in A/W 2011. Look for slimmer pieces and never forget just how cheap the likes of cashmere will be in summer – it’ll be a lot more expensive again once autumn returns!
People in the UK are increasingly seeing the benefit of staying at home for the holidays. There is a lot to do in Britain, after all; then again, more people are finding there’s no other option given how tight their money is getting in this modern world of expensive utility bills and other charges.
However, it looks like the domestic holiday industry is itself going to take a hit, if the government’s latest scheme to tax caravans goes off without a hitch. In the Budget, chancellor George Osborne said the government would begin to charge VAT on static caravans. This industry employs many people, particularly in Hull and the rest of the East Riding of Yorkshire, so it means that companies stand to lose a lot – that is, unless caravan users get savvier!
Here are Money Monitor’s top three tips to a cheaper deal on your caravan insurance…
Buy with a specialist caravan insurer
If you go with a company that specialises in caravan insurance – like this one – you’ll have instant access to better rates and they’ll be able to more adequately cover your make and model, given they’ll be able to distinguish it from others on the market.
Pay for the year upfront
If you have the caravan at your disposal for a full year, it stands to reason to take out the policy for that length of time; if you do this, you’ll save as much as two months’ worth of cover if you don’t opt for the pay-per-month option instead.
Fit approved security measures
Huge discounts could be had if you add approved security measures to your caravan, so long as they’re fitted and tested by specialists. It may cost you a little more in the short-term, though lower premiums and a smaller chance of being broken into will be your reward!
There have been a large number of changes in the working world, as well as challenges to the safety of employees and businesses, in the last few years. With a double recession hitting the UK and a handful of other unlucky countries across Europe and beyond, one thing has become more popular among organisations, it seems: the hiring of interim management. However, this expensive short-term investment is one that’s widely criticised… but why?
Actually, when you look at the benefits of interim managers at popular companies across the UK, one thing stands out above everything else: that they’re actually pretty good value for money! Here’s why…
1) Immediate access to experience. By hiring independent executives committed to the specific cause you demand, companies have the ability to select people who have a remarkable amount of experience in their industry sector and required skill area.
2) Value for money in the long term. While rates tend to compare with those of a consultant, they also do not require pension investments, paid time off and other incentives – indeed, interim managers are on pay-to-play contracts.
3) Apolitical stance. Due to their independence, interims offer impartial and professional advice to co-workers. They have no interest in pining to specific people, or getting involved in a clique – their professional stance separates them from it all.
4) A legacy of added value. Given the fact that most interim managers are overqualified, they offer benefits to companies such as staff mentoring, advising from experience and a new way of doing things.
So, there you have it. You may never hire one yourself, but don’t feel too blue or hostile if you’re working somewhere where one comes in – they can really do a lot for your company’s livelihood, as well as your own!