Dublin, Ireland – 07 August 2025, Research commissioned by home and motor insurance provider RedClick found that over a quarter (28%) of respondents say they now avoid posting about their holiday on social media until they have returned, out of concern that broadcasting their absence could make their home a target for opportunistic burglars.
The nationwide survey highlights key trends - and some surprising gaps - in how consumers in Ireland approach home security during holidays, along with their attitudes toward travel and car insurance. Conducted by independent polling company Ireland Thinks, the study surveyed a nationally representative sample of 1,900 participants, uncovering insurance behaviours both at home and abroad.
Home security while away: Traditional habits with room for improvement
When preparing for holidays lasting more than five days, consumers in Ireland continue to rely primarily on tried and-trusted home security practices. However, nearly one in five (17%) admit to not locking all windows and doors before leaving for their trip away.
Overall, the research shows that many traditional security habits persist, with 51% informing a neighbour or friend when they’ll be away, and 59% asking someone they trust to check in on their home - often the same person. These behaviours frequently overlap, reflecting a layered approach to home security.
Unfortunately, five per cent of those surveyed reported experiencing a break-in while away, underscoring the ongoing risks and the continued need for effective preventative measures.
Car Insurance: Confusion Around Cross-Border Cover
The research also found significant confusion about car insurance cover when travelling outside Ireland. While 65% of respondents believe their insurance extends to driving in Northern Ireland - a correct assumption for most standard Irish policies - confidence drops significantly when it comes to driving on the continent.
Nearly half (46%) of those surveyed assume they are fully covered while driving in mainland Europe, when the level of cover will vary based on the destination country and the individual policy. Eight per cent of respondents mistakenly believe that their standard Irish car insurance includes medical expenses incurred abroad in the event of a car accident. This misconception could carry serious financial consequences, particularly in the event of an accident requiring hospital treatment or emergency services outside of Ireland.
According to Lorenzo Ioan, RedClick General Manager:
"At RedClick, we want to make it easy for our customers to protect what matters most - whether that’s preventing a break-in or being prepared before driving abroad. We regularly share simple, practical reminders through our channels to help people take action before problems arise. And if something does go wrong, we’re just a click away - ready to respond quickly and supportively. As a responsible insurer and partner our customers can rely on, we’re here to help shape a safer, more secure future for individuals, families, and communities.”
RedClick’s 10 Simple Tips to Keep Your Home Safe While You’re Away
- Lock up properly - Doors, windows, sheds - don’t leave anything open.
- Wait to post - Share the holiday snaps when you’re home, not while you’re away.
- Use timers - Lights on timers can help your home look lived-in.
- Tell someone you trust - A friend or neighbour can keep an eye out and collect post.
- Set the alarm - Invest in one and use it.
- Switch off the water mains - Helps avoid any nasty surprises from leaks or bursts.
- Unplug where you can - Cut the risk of electrical faults (and save energy).
- Keep valuables out of sight - Don’t advertise what’s inside.
- Put tools and bikes away - Lock up anything in the garden or shed.
- Check your cover - make sure your home insurance is up to date before you leave, and if travelling by car, review your car insurance too, especially if you’re driving abroad.
ENDS
ABOUT REDCLICK
RedClick is the commercial brand of the Generali Group in Ireland, providing Property & Casualty insurance products to the Irish market. It serves over 250,000 customers through its home and motor insurance offerings. The company employs more than 400 people across its operations in Cavan, Enniskillen, and Dublin. RedClick delivers a strong customer proposition through direct channels and in partnership with over 250 trusted broker agencies nationwide. Generali Seguros y Reaseguros, S.A., trading as RedClick and Generali, is authorised by the General Directorate of Insurance and Pension Funds in Spain and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for consumer protection rules.
THE GENERALI GROUP
Generali is one of the largest global insurance and asset management providers. Established in 1831, it is present in over 50 countries in the world, with a total premium income of € 82.5 billion in 2023. With around 82,000 employees serving 70 million customers, the Group has a leading position in Europe and a growing presence in Asia and Latin America. At the heart of Generali’s strategy is its Lifetime Partner commitment to customers, achieved through innovative and personalized solutions, best-in-class customer experience and its digitalized global distribution capabilities. The Group has fully embedded sustainability into all strategic choices, with the aim to create value for all stakeholders while building a fairer and more resilient society.