All about caravan insurance

Do I have to take out caravan insurance?

Let’s be clear from the outset; unlike your car, insuring your caravan is not a legal requirement. You’re unlikely to get into any trouble with the Police Interceptors if you simply hook up your tourer and set off merrily on your way without insuring it first.

However, considering that a caravan is one of the most expensive purchases you’re likely to make, having peace of mind that it will be repaired or replaced in the event of an incident should help you sleep that little bit better at night!

It's important at this point to make clear that although a car insurance policy will typically cover you for damage to third party vehicles and property whilst the caravan is in tow, it will not pay for any repairs or replacement of the caravan itself or caravanning equipment.

What does a specialist caravan insurance cover?

Specialist policies should cover you for a wide number of perils such as accidental damage, theft, storms or floods, fire, and even liability to the public.

When shopping around for a policy, you should consider whether you just want to insure your caravan, or whether you’d also want to include equipment or the personal possessions you take with you from your home. If your awning was damaged or blown away in a storm, would you be in a position to dip into your savings to repair or replace it? Or if something happened to your caravan whilst you were on holiday, would your clothing and footwear be covered under your home insurance policy whilst away from home? All food for thought.

What are the most common types of claims

You might be interested to know why someone would typically claim on their caravan insurance. Looking at some of the most popular caravan claims from 2022, without a doubt the highest cost by far was for theft, with the average pay-out being more than £17,000. Yet one of the most common causes for claims was accidental damage, with an average cost of over £2,000. It’s quite scary to think how much you could be out of pocket if you slightly mis-time a manoeuvre!

How much will caravan insurance cost?

You might believe that insurance premiums are just plucked out of thin air, but that’s far from the truth. Numerous factors are considered when quoting for caravan insurance, with some of the key criteria being the value of the caravan, where it’s stored overnight, which security devices you use, and how much relevant experience you have. Some insurers even allow you to insure on a new for old basis, meaning that whilst you pay a slightly higher premium, in the event of a total loss you would receive a brand-new replacement caravan.

How can I reduce the cost of insurance?

Quite frankly, the more precautions you take to prevent a claim, the less you will pay for your caravan insurance cover. Installing devices such as an alarm, tracking device, reversing camera or tyre pressure monitor, are all simple ways to reduce your premium. Some of these might be fitted to your caravan as standard. If storing at home, even having a locked gate or post on your driveway can mean that you’re eligible for a lower premium.

Choosing the right insurer

Don’t forget that whilst price is important, not all insurers are the same. Remember to check that the levels of cover are suitable for you, but more importantly try and find out what the insurer is like when you have to make a claim. TrustPilot is a great place to find out what other peoples’ experiences have been!

Special offer for Habcheck customers

You can get a 5% discount from leading insurance specialist Caravan Guard click here.

Habcheck is a trading name of Leisure Vehicle Franchising Ltd which is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Caravan Guard Limited. Caravan Guard Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Customers introduced to Caravan Guard via Habcheck, will receive a 5% discount from the standard Caravan Guard rates when buying via the telephone number or weblink above. This applies to both new and renewing customers. Discount is subject to underwriting terms and conditions. Not available in conjunction with other offers. Discount does not apply to the motor legal expenses or breakdown elements of cover. Minimum premiums apply. Caravan Guard reserve the right to remove offers, discounts or adjust premium rating factors at any time. Details correct as of 02/12/2023.