Campervan Insurance - Everything you Need to Know

The basics you need to know when looking for campervan insurance

When it's finally time to renew your campervan insurance, you can expect to be asked numerous questions by your insurance provider. The reason for this is simple: your provider wants to ensure that they offer you the most suitable and competitive insurance package that meets your individual needs. By getting to know your circumstances and requirements, they can tailor a campervan insurance policy that works for you.

However, it's important to keep in mind that this is a two-way communication process, and it's also an opportunity for you to get your own questions answered. If you're not sure what to ask, consider reading this list of the top 27 questions you should ask when looking for campervan insurance.

It's always best not to make assumptions when it comes to purchasing insurance. The last thing you want is to rush to buy a policy only to realize later that certain items such as your awning or other contents are not covered. It's a common mistake that can be easily made when you're in a hurry to get things sorted out. However, failing to ask the right questions at the right time can lead to significant losses. When it comes to campervan insurance, assuming everything is covered can end up causing headaches down the road.

Do I Really Need Campervan Insurance?

Yes, it's important to have campervan insurance if you plan on using your vehicle on roads and in public places. This is a legal requirement that helps protect others in the event of an accident on the road. While there is a minimum amount of campervan insurance coverage required by law, it's generally recommended to have more comprehensive campervan insurance. After all, you wouldn't want your dream road trip to be ruined by theft, damage, accidents, or loss.

By having the appropriate campervan insurance, you can rest assured that if anything does go wrong, it can be quickly and easily resolved. This peace of mind allows you to relax and fully enjoy your travels without worrying about potential issues that could arise.

Should I insure my self-built van as a campervan?

If you have a self-built or converted van that you plan to use as a campervan, you will need to insure it as such. Insurance companies typically consider how the van is used, rather than just its outward appearance, unless the appearance affects the van's performance.

Can I Drive A Motorhome Using My Car Insurance?

Motorhomes have a much different use from regular cars, which means that specialized insurance is required to ensure that you have the necessary protection. Due to the fact that a motorhome is essentially a miniature house on wheels, it requires different campervan insurance than what a standard car insurance policy provides.

Can't I Just Use Van Insurance?

In Ireland, there are many campervans on the roads that were originally a different type of vehicle. Various models such as Ford Transit or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter have been extensively converted into campervans. Although these vehicles may appear similar on the outside, they are, in fact, very different for insurance purposes.

Campervans are much more than just a mode of transportation, they represent a unique lifestyle that allows you to travel with the comforts of home on the road. The distinct nature of these vehicles means that they require specialized campervan insurance that goes beyond what traditional van insurance policies provide.

Customer service, reviews and underwriters

When it comes to choosing the right insurance provider for your campervan, it's important to do your research and not solely rely on insurance comparison tools. While these tools can help you get an idea of prices and campervan insurance options, they may not provide a complete picture of the insurer's reputation and customer service. To get a better idea of what it's like to work with a particular insurance company, it's essential to check existing customer experiences and reviews. Online review sites like Trustpilot and Google can provide you with valuable feedback from previous customers. Additionally, Defaqto ratings can give you insight into the quality and level of coverage offered by larger insurance companies.

Smaller independent insurance brands often rely on underwriters to create their policies, as they may not have the resources or expertise to develop them in-house.

What Are The Main Types Of Campervan Insurance Coverage?

The campervan insurance coverage you need for your motorhome depends on how you plan to use it. There are three main types of coverage available:

First, there's third-party insurance, which is the minimum legal requirement for driving in Ireland. However, it only covers compensation for injuries sustained by other people or damage you cause to them or their vehicle. Note that it can be challenging to obtain third-party insurance for motorhomes nowadays.

Second, there's third-party fire and theft insurance, which provides the same campervan insurance coverage as third-party insurance but also includes protection if your motorhome is stolen or damaged by fire.

Finally, there's full comprehensive insurance, which includes everything in third-party fire and theft coverage, and also covers damage or destruction to your motorhome in an accident that's not your fault. This is the most extensive level of insurance you can get for your motorhome.

In addition to covering the motorhome's contents, comprehensive coverage can provide additional benefits such as:

European coverage for up to 240 days

United Kingdom, Northern Ireland and European breakdown cover

Coverage for motorhomes up to 25 years old

What Affects The Cost Of My Insurance?

The cost of your motorhome insurance is influenced by five key factors, with the first being your driving record.

A claims-free driving history over the past few years will usually result in a lower insurance rate. It's worth noting that most insurance companies use your car driving record to determine the cost of insuring your motorhome.

The intended use of your motorhome plays a significant role in determining its insurance cost. If you plan to use your motorhome as your primary vehicle for daily commutes to work, as well as for vacations, expect to pay a higher insurance premium.

The cost of your motorhome insurance will be lower if you only use your motorhome occasionally for leisure trips and store it in a safe location. Storing your motorhome in a CaSSOA site, known for their high level of security, may even earn you a discount on insurance. However, it's worth noting that while CaSSOA sites have public liability insurance for fire and flooding, they do not cover accidental damage or theft.

The number of miles you drive your motorhome each year can also affect your insurance premiums. If you stay within the agreed mileage limit, you can typically save money on your insurance premiums. You may be required to provide proof of your motorhome's mileage, such as a photograph of the odometer, to the insurance company.

Estimating your mileage is important to determine how much you'll pay for your motorhome insurance. To get an estimate, consider your average weekly mileage and multiply it by 52, then add the miles you expect to drive on trips or holidays. This will give you an estimate of your yearly mileage, which is a key factor that insurers use to calculate your premiums.

The price of your motorhome insurance is also greatly influenced by the value of your vehicle. Considering that motorhomes can cost tens of thousands of pounds, it is important to take this into account when seeking an insurance quote.

Lastly, incorporating high-level security devices and systems in your motorhome can lead to better insurance quotes.

How can you reduce the costs?

If you are looking for a motorhome hire then just contact us today!