Short term cover is exactly what it says – cover for short periods of time. It consists of two basic categories: temporary and pay-as-you-go. Temporary cover insures a motorist for durations between 1 and 28 days. Pay-as-you-go cover insures a motorist for longer periods, usually between 1 and 6 months. These policies may be conveniently purchased online.

Temporary car insurance

Temporary cover provides insurance for the shortest periods of time – from a single day to almost a month. It's perfect for last-minute use, as when as unexpected need to drive another's car arises. Motorists can purchase temporary cover multiple times for the same driver on the same car, though insurers may require a 15-day waiting period after each 28 days. They may also have a maximum number of days of cover per year. Temporary cover is not meant to replace one's annual insurance policy, so it shouldn't be treated as such. Even if it were, it'd likely be more expensive than an equivalent annual policy.

Month-to-month car insurance

For those motorists who need cover for more than a month, pay-as-you-go is a good option. It's automatically renewed every month until the motorist cancels or deactivates. In the latter case, the cover may be reactivated at a later time – months need not be consecutive. This offers great flexibility, especially for university students, expats, and others. Pay-as-you-go may also aid young drivers who cannot get temporary cover. Motorists between 17 and 21 cannot get temporary cover because insurers view this pool of drivers as too risky. Pay-as-you-go cover is available to those 17 and up, however, so motorists may purchase a full month as a work-around. It's better than nothing, even if not the best-case scenario.

Online Cover

Many insurers offer short term cover only via the Internet. Motorists can get quotes online and then quickly apply for cover whenever they need it. Those with pay-as-you-go cover can manage their account anytime, anywhere, as works best for them. Payment for both types is made online through credit or debit cards. Temporary cover is paid by the day; pay-as-you-go is paid by the month. Motorists may print out the policy documents and certificate after purchase. Insurers can also post physical copies, as well.

Due to the immediate nature of temporary cover, however, it's often not possible to change details of cover. Cancellation is possible, but many insurers don't return premiums for temporary cover. This is, in part, why it's good for last-minute use – cover needs are unlikely to change at that time.
 

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