Heading off to uni? Here's what to insure against theft
Insurer Aviva warns laptops, phones, and bikes are top targets for thieves as students head to university in September 2026.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Laptops, phones, and bikes are the top items targeted by thieves as students head to university.
- The majority of student insurance claims result from theft rather than accidental damage.
- Students should check existing family or student hall policies before purchasing new cover.
- Creating a detailed inventory helps ensure adequate replacement value for all belongings.
As students prepare to head off to university in September 2026, valuable items such as laptops, mobile phones, and bicycles have emerged as prime targets for thieves, according to insurer Aviva.
These items are reportedly the most likely to appear on student insurance claims after being stolen from student digs, cars, public transport, and bars or restaurants.
Steven Jackson, home product manager at Aviva, noted that computers and mobile phones play a crucial role in student life while simultaneously attracting opportunistic thieves due to their high value and portability.
"Laptops, computers and mobile phones play a vital role in student life, but they can also be attractive targets for opportunistic thieves due to their value and portability."
Steven Jackson, Home Product Manager, Aviva
However, there are various ways to keep possessions safe and important factors to weigh if you intend to secure insurance coverage. Getting it wrong can lead to significant expenses or potentially legal issues.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Student contents insurance is a critical financial consideration during the autumn university intake in the UK. Living in shared accommodation significantly increases the exposure to theft of high-value portable electronics, making advance policy verification and asset cataloging essential risk management steps for students and their families.
According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), car insurance remains a legal obligation, whereas insuring bicycles or personal belongings remains entirely optional. The ABI recommends checking existing policies first:
- Check if you are already covered by student accommodation policies or parental home insurance extensions.
- Explore standalone contents insurance options if existing coverage is unavailable.
- Verify coverage limits to ensure they match the total replacement cost, including single-item claim caps.
- Create an itemized inventory of clothes, electronics, and furniture to calculate accurate replacement costs.
Additional premiums may apply if you need to protect an expensive bicycle or items carried outside your accommodation. Furthermore, drivers must notify their car insurers if their vehicle is relocated to a new address.
Source: BBC Business
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