From Laptops to Bikes: New Analysis Reveals the Belongings Students Value Most
New analysis by Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC shows strong interest in protecting the belongings students rely on every day as they begin a new academic year
Key findings
- Analysis of Google search data shows searches for laptop insurance-related terms increase by an average of 153% between July and September, as students prepare for college and university
- Phone insurance remains among the most searched for technology related insurance terms among Irish consumers
- Laptops, smartphones and bicycles generate significantly more search interest than tablets and cameras, highlighting the value people place on certain everyday essentials
New analysis** from Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva) reveals strong interest in protecting items such as laptops, smartphones and bicycles as more than 60,000 students begin college for the first time following this year's CAO offers**.
The findings come as recent research*** found that students can expect to spend over €16,000 attending college during the 2026 academic year. Against a backdrop of rising college costs, taking time to understand what protection is available for essential belongings such as laptops, smartphones and bicycles can help students avoid unexpected costs if these items are lost, stolen or damaged.
Reflecting the importance of these items, Aviva's analysis found that searches for laptop insurance-related terms increase by an average of 153% between July and September, based on average monthly search volumes in recent years. This coincides with the period when students are preparing to start college and for many, moving into student accommodation.
The most searched for belongings insurance categories:
The analysis found that bike, gadget and phone insurance related terms attract the highest levels of search interest among consumers looking to protect belongings.
- Bike insurance related terms (750-2,200 searches per month)
- Gadget insurance (630-1,460 searches per month)
- Phone insurance (550-1,220 searches per month)
- Laptop insurance (220-930 searches per month)
Students going to college, particularly those moving away from home for the first time, may not be aware that some belongings could already be covered while they are living in student accommodation.
For a lot of students, their most valuable possessions aren't limited to technology. Alongside laptops and smartphones, bicycles are often an important part of student life, helping students travel to and from campus and around their local area. Starting college is an exciting time and the last thing any student wants is to discover they are not adequately protected if an essential item is stolen, lost or damaged. Taking time to understand what protection is available can provide peace of mind and help students focus on settling into college life and making the most of the year ahead
Alan Behan, Product and Underwriting Manager at Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC commenting on the findings
Aviva's top tips for students
- Keep receipts and proof of purchase for valuable items: Having a record of when and where items were purchased can help if they are lost, stolen or damaged.
- Record serial numbers for laptops, phones and other electronic devices: This can help identify items and support any claim if they go missing.
- Take photos of valuable belongings before moving into accommodation: Keeping an up-to-date record of your possessions can make it easier to demonstrate ownership.
- Keep proof of purchase and store bicycles securely: Keep receipts or other proof of purchase for your bike and make sure it is stored securely when not in use, such as in a locked shed or inside your home.
- Update your address if you're moving to student accommodation and bringing a car: If you're taking a car to college, let your insurer, broker or financial advisor know where it will be kept during term time to ensure your details remain accurate.
- Consider whether additional cover is needed for valuable items: Depending on your circumstances, optional personal belongings cover may help protect items such as laptops, smartphones, earbuds, tablets and jewellery against accidental damage or loss, both at home and while away studying.
ENDS