Auto show season is upon us! Shows from Vancouver to Quebec City will be taking place over the next few months and with them driving and automotive enthusiasts will be out in full force. If you're thinking about buying a new car here are some essential insurance tips to keep in mind.

1. Factor insurance into cost of purchase

First and foremost, don't forget to factor the cost of insurance into your buying decision. After all, buying a car for most people is a long-term commitment and knowing you can affordably insure it year-after-year is important. No matter what kind of vehicle you're thinking of buying compare auto insurance quotes from competing insurers first, because not only do rates differ between insurers but also between vehicles.

2. Make sure all your cars are on the same policy

Most insurance companies offer a "Multi-vehicle discount" for customers who insure more than one car on the same policy.

3. Insure both your car and home with the same company

Again, this may qualify you for a discount called the "Multi-line discount". Most companies offer this savings as an incentive to get your home insurance business too.

4. Have an anti-theft device installed in your car

If you take measures to ensure your car less likely to be stolen, then some insurance companies will offer an "Anti-theft discount" if certain anti-theft devices are installed.

5. Ask about other discounts you might be able to get

Additional common discounts include the age, low mileage, occupational and auto club discounts all of which could save you money, if you qualify.

6. Increase your deductibles

The higher your deductibles, the lower your insurance premium so raise them as much as you can. Keep it affordable though, because this is how much you'll have to cover if you need to submit a claim.

7. Drive carefully

Drivers with no accidents, tickets or insurance claims almost always pay less for their auto insurance coverage. With a less than perfect driving record, you can find yourself paying much higher insurance premiums over the years.

8. Don't believe the myths about auto insurance premiums

Auto insurance premiums across insurers are not the same. In fact, each insurer's car insurance rates are so unique to them that it's safe to say that no two are alike.

9. Compare apples-to-apples while shopping

When comparing rates, include the same deductibles, coverages, and limitations so you're comparing like rates. At comparison sites where you can actually compare competing rates side-by-side, they'll do this for you.

10. Shop around

Get quotes instantly online. www.kanetix.ca, for example, is an online quote comparison service that provides shoppers with quotes from competing insurers.