Why Can’t I Use Standard Car Insurance

A regular car or van insurance policy won't cover the unique aspects of a campervan. Interior modifications such as fixed furniture, electrical systems, gas installations, and water tanks, as well as exterior additions such as awnings, are typically not covered under standard policies. A specific motorhome/campervan insurance policy covers not just the vehicle, but also the valuable components and modifications you've added. So you need specialist insurance that covers everything in your van.

That's ok, you say, I'll just look on a comparison site. “No, Stop.” Comparison sites are good, but not for your campervan or motorhome. You need a specialist cover. Some companies will not cover you for everything. If your van is registered with the DVLA as a van with windows, even if it's been converted by a professional campervan conversion company, some insurance companies won't insure the inside of your van, like the gas hold, the electric system. You need to check with them that even if it's registered as a van with windows and not a motor caravan, it includes every little bit of equipment in your van.

Key Considerations for Campervan Insurance

When choosing a policy, several factors come into play:

• Driver-Related Factors:
  • Age and Experience: Younger and less experienced drivers (under 25) often face higher premiums.
  • Driving History: A clean record with no claims or convictions can help lower costs.
  • Additional Drivers: Adding younger or inexperienced drivers may increase premiums.
• Campervan-Related Factors:
  • Value and Age: High-value, new, or custom-built campervans generally cost more to insure.
  • Type of Campervan: Factory-built campervans may be cheaper to insure than self-conversions.
  • Where it's Parked: Storing your campervan in a secure location (e.g., garage, driveway) can reduce costs compared to street parking.
  • Modifications and Conversions: Be sure to disclose all modifications, including self-conversions, as these impact your coverage. Insurers may request details and photos of the conversion.

• Which Policy:
  • Level of Cover:
    • Third-party only: Covers damage to other vehicles and property but not your own campervan (cheapest).
    • Third-party, fire & theft: Offers more protection than third-party only.
    • Fully comprehensive: Provides the most extensive coverage, protecting your campervan against accidental damage, vandalism, and more (most expensive but best coverage).
  • Usage Frequency and Mileage Limits: The more you drive, the higher the premium. Some insurers offer discounts for lower annual mileage. Many policies won't cover you for commuting purposes, only social, domestic, and pleasure use, so it's important to specify your intended use.
  • Personal Belongings: Many policies offer optional or included cover for items inside your campervan, such as camping gear and electronics, but limits may apply.
  • Breakdown Assistance: Some policies include breakdown cover, while others require a separate policy, especially for European travel. Check that the breakdown covers everything from home start to recovery
  • European Cover: If you plan to travel abroad, ensure your policy includes European cover, and you may need a "green card" from your insurer. 

If you're not traveling abroad, then don’t include it, it may reduce the price of the insurance.

• Agreed Value Coverage: This allows you and your insurer to agree on a value for your campervan, taking into account customizations.

Reducing Your Campervan Insurance Costs

• Compare Prices: Don't settle for the first quote. Shop around and compare prices from different companies. But make sure the policy is the same.
• Improve Security: Installing security features like alarms, immobilisers, and tracking devices can lower your premiums by reducing the risk of theft. Depends on how much your campervan/motorhome is worth; they may ask for a tracker to be fitted.
• Pay Annually: Paying for your insurance annually rather than monthly can surprisingly reduce your overall expenses. Paying just the monthly fee will cost you extra in interest.
• Disclose All Information Accurately: Provide your insurer with accurate and up-to-date information about your campervan and its use to get an accurate quote.
• The insurance company may ask for habitation certificates, gas, and electric certificates.

Campervan Insurance: A Guide to Peace of Mind

Choosing the right insurance is essential for worry-free campervan adventures, protecting both your vehicle and your peace of mind on the road.

I hope these tips assist you when purchasing your next campervan or motorhome insurance policy.

Specialist Insurance Providers we can recommend:

• Safeguard UK Insurance
• Ripe Insurance
• Caravan Guard