1. Know What You Actually Need—Not Just What They Sell You

Before you shop for any policy, take five minutes to think about what you're protecting. Are you covering income, a car, your health, or your stuff? Don’t let an agent upsell you into a gold-tier package with extras you’ll never use. Define your needs first, then look for policies that match—not the other way around.

2. Compare Multiple Quotes—Yes, Even the Boring Ones

Never settle for the first offer. Use comparison tools like Policygenius, The Zebra, or even old-school agent calls to get multiple quotes. Policies that seem identical can vary wildly in price depending on provider, location, and your profile.