How much is caravan insurance?

Did you know that caravan insurance isn’t actually mandatory in the UK? While this is the case, the reality is that accidents, crime and natural disasters can leave you out of pocket if you don’t have caravan insurance cover. You might also think that a touring caravan attached to your car is protected by your car insurance, but this isn’t automatically the case. Park owners will also ask for proof of coverage if you’re looking to park your static caravan, motorhome, or campervan on their premises.

In this article, we discuss why caravan insurance is a worthwhile investment, the types of policies available, factors influencing insurance costs and our top tips for finding the best insurance!

Caravan insurance is specialised coverage that protects caravan owners from financial risks associated with owning, towing or using a caravan. Caravans don’t legally require insurance as they’re not motorised vehicles, but they are vulnerable to risks like theft, damage or accidents, so insuring your caravan is recommended.

• Touring caravans: Designed for towing behind a vehicle, these caravans are covered for risks encountered in transit and when parked.

• Static caravans: These are permanently situated at holiday parks or private properties. Coverage is offered for weather damage, site-specific liabilities and structure repairs.

• Motorhomes: Self-propelled and require motor insurance, but can also benefit from additional caravan-specific protections like contents coverage or roadside assistance.

• Campervans: More compact than motorhomes, campervans combine transport and accommodation, often with fold-out beds and basic kitchen facilities. Insurance covers motor risks, with options for equipment, awnings, and personal belongings. For VW campers, insurance can differ due to modifications or non-standard features that might not be covered in standard insurance policies.

Policies vary depending on the provider you choose and your specific requirements, but most include following types of coverage:

• Structural damage

• Contents cover

• Third-party liability

• Theft and vandalism

• Weather and natural disasters

• European cover

• Breakdown and recovery

The key reasons to consider getting caravan insurance include:

• Cost of repairs or replacement – costs can get higher for high-end models or those with unique features.

• Liability risks – accidents involving third parties can lead to significant compensation claims.

• Unforeseen incidents – from extreme weather to theft.

• Site or park requirements – many holiday parks and caravan sites require owners to have insurance before granting a pitch. Whether you own a motorhome, campervan, or static caravan, this coverage is typically mandatory for parking.

Type and size of caravan

Touring caravans are considered higher risk due to potential accidents on the road. Static caravans are usually less expensive to insure because they remain in one location, reducing the risks associated with travel. 

Motorhomes and campervans, being self-propelled, are considered higher risk due to driving-related factors.

Larger or more luxurious caravans with high-end features, like solar panels or premium fixtures for example, cost more to insure because repair or replacement costs are higher.

Newer caravans tend to cost more to insure as they have a higher market value and replacement cost. Older caravans may be cheaper to insure but could incur higher premiums if they lack modern safety features.

Insurers consider the current market value of your caravan, motorhome, or campervan to calculate premiums. Owners of higher-value caravans (including campervans and motorhomes) may face increased premiums to cover theft or total loss.

Frequency of use is another factor which affects the cost of your caravan insurance. Regular use increases the risk of accidents or wear-and tear, leading to higher premiums.

Using your motorhome, campervan, or caravan in high-risk areas, like flood-prone regions for example, may also increase insurance costs. 

Policies that include extended cover for use in Europe may add to the cost.

Insurers will often offer discounts if the caravan is stored in secure facilities, such as CaSSOA (Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association) accredited sites.

Installing safety devices like wheel clamps, hitch locks, immobilisers or trackers can also significantly reduce premiums.

Essentially, the better your caravan, motorhome, or campervan is protected, the less risk it poses to insurers!

Like with your car insurance, a history of no claims can help lower premiums, while prior claims for accidents or theft may increase costs.

Younger or inexperienced drivers may face higher premiums due to perceived higher risk when towing caravans, driving motorhomes, or operating campervans.

Comprehensive policies that include accidental damage, contents cover and liability protection are more expensive than basic policies. Opting for higher voluntary excess can reduce premiums, but it will increase your financial responsibility in the event of a claim. Extras like breakdown cover, European cover or protection for personal belongings can increase premiums but add valuable protection.

The average cost of caravan insurance in the UK typically falls within the £150-£300 range for touring caravans, and £100-£300 range for static caravans, annually. Motorhomes tend to be in the £200-£600 annual insurance range as they’re self-propelled vehicles. Campervan insurance, on average, ranges from £150 to £400, depending on factors like the model, age, and usage. Classic VW campervans may see higher premiums due to their value and popularity. 

You can get a more accurate quote for your caravan here and compare providers. CaravanGuard, Safeguard, Motorhome Direct, and Ripe Insurance are some caravan insurance providers you might like to explore.

It’s important to compare quotes from multiple providers, as different insurers offer varying premiums and coverage options – you’d do the same for car insurance! Shopping around lets you compare prices, benefits and customer reviews.

Assess your coverage needs and decide whether you need essential protection (e.g. theft and damage) or broader coverage (e.g. new-for-old replacement, European cover or breakdown assistance). It’s also worth thinking about whether you need extra cover if you’re in a flood-prone area or use your caravan, motorhome, or campervan very frequently.

Installing security devices like wheel clamps, hitch locks, alarms and trackers can reduce your premiums, so look out for insurers that offer discounts for these measures. Using an accredited storage site for your caravan can also lead to significant savings on your caravan insurance.

Finally, make sure to check for additional benefits, such as new-for-old cover (this will likely increase premiums), contents insurance if you store valuable electronics or outdoor equipment in your caravan, and public liability insurance if your caravan is used on a holiday park.

It can be daunting knowing where to start when looking for campervan, motorhome or caravan insurance – there are so many options out there! While insurance isn’t strictly essential (unless parked in a holiday park), it’s recommended as it can protect you in the event of an accident or unforeseen circumstances. Whether you need the minimum cover so you can make use of holiday parks, or are looking for something more comprehensive for peace of mind, we’d recommend assessing your options and shopping around for the best deals. Check out sites like Trustpilot too to gauge insurer reliability and customer satisfaction during claims.

If you have any other queries about our caravan range, feel free to get in contact with us today!