What to consider when insuring your motorhome

What to consider when insuring your motorhome

It is a legal requirement to insure your motorhome, but there is still much to consider when you start looking for a policy. While finding the cheapest motorhome insurance on the market may be a priority, it's not all you should base your choice on.

Read our guide to what you need to think about when choosing cover for your mobile home.

What type is it?

The type of motorhome you own has an impact on the policy you choose. Motorhomes differ from caravans in that you drive one rather than tow it behind you, but within this category there are numerous versions available.

Just a couple of the types of motorhome seen on the roads include VW campervans and American RVs. There are also vans and minibuses that have been converted into a motorhome and these may require specialist cover. Carefully check the details of the policy you are considering to make sure your particular model is covered by the provider - some products encompass all motorhomes but you might get a better deal by going for a specialist firm.

What do you need?

In a similar way to car insurance, there is a minimum level of cover required when insuring your motorhome and that's third party only. This will protect you in the event you are liable for an injury caused by your vehicle to others or if their property is damaged. The next step up is third party, fire and theft and finally comprehensive.

However, within this there are numerous additional features policies can have, which may make them either more or less suitable for your needs. For instance, you could check windscreen and glass replacement is listed on your policy, as this is one of the things that most frequently requires specialist attention.

Other things to think about is looking for a product that covers you in the event your motorhome is vandalised or the contents of the vehicle are stolen. Make a list of all your needs and reflect on this as you browse the policies available.

Where are you travelling?

Driving in a foreign country can be daunting at the best of times, what with often having to get to grips with staying on the right-hand side of the road, attempting to understand foreign traffic signs and navigating your way through unfamiliar territory. That's not to say you are more likely to have an accident when travelling abroad, but if you do it can be more complicated to resolve.

You will need to understand the laws surrounding this sort of incident in the country you're visiting and having an insurance provider at the end of the phone who can offer you advice on these matters will be something you'll appreciate. If you want to travel in Europe, be certain you take out a policy that allows you to do so, or look for one where purchasing extra cover for single trips is a possibility.

Check the fine print as some will only cover you for a specific duration. Finally, find out if there are any other rules you should be aware of in the place you're heading to, such as being legally required to carry a warning sign.

Do you need breakdown cover?

As mentioned, it is vital you have adequate insurance in the event you are involved in an accident with another driver. However, it is just as important that you know where to turn should your vehicle break down.

Many motorhome insurance providers also offer specialist breakdown cover. You can opt for UK-only protection or a policy that will also cover you while driving in Europe. By doing this, a problem with your engine won't necessarily spell the end of your camping adventure.

How to save money

There are so many points to consider and getting the most comprehensive policy possible will certainly give you peace of mind when you are on the road. However, that's not to say that you don't also want to bag yourself a bargain.

Luckily, there are ways to save money on your insurance - the key is knowing what to do. Joining certain caravan clubs can be a good move, as some cover providers offer members a discount on their policies, so if you're already a member make sure you let your insurer know.

There are also modifications that can be made to your motorhome that will not only bring down the cost of cover but will also give it additional protection. You can purchase tracking devices to install on it, which means that if your motorhome is stolen there is a greater chance of it being found and reunited with you.

You also need to think about the safety of the van's contents, so fitting additional locks and even alarms can be a wise move. This will deter any would-be burglars and mean you don't have to worry about leaving your motorhome parked up while you go sightseeing. Best of all, installing approved security items could reduce your insurance premium.

Consider these points and you have a great chance of finding the policy that is best for your needs.