Your guide to RV insurance

Key takeaways:

  • You’re not always required to have RV insurance for towable campers/trailers
  • If you take out a loan to buy an RV, the lender may require insurance 
  • Drivable motorhomes and truck campers must be insured
  • Insurance rates depend on the type of RV, usage, location, and driving history
  • Some auto insurance policies will extend coverage to rented RVs

Looking to buy an RV for summer vacations or retirement? Perhaps you’d like to rent one to drive to your family’s vacation home? you may be wondering about insuring your RV. 

This guide is designed to get you up to speed before you drive off into the sunset. Learn about when RV insurance is needed, what it covers and costs, and if you need to insure a rental. 

Different types of RVs

In order to understand RV insurance, you need to know about the different types of RVs. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some are drivable while others are designed to be towed. Knowing more about your particular RV is important because it can make the difference between needing insurance or not.

Towable RVs:

  • Travel Trailers – This type of RV is designed to be towed behind a truck or SUV. 
  • Fifth Wheels – This type of RV is also towable but they’re generally larger than travel trailers. They come with fully-equipped kitchens, a bedroom, and other sleeping options.
  • Pop-Up Camper – This type of RV is smaller and lighter so it can be towed by a small or mid-size SUV. They’re easy to fold down and store and can sleep four – six people. 

Drivable RVs:

  • Truck Camper – This type of RV features a camper on top of a truck bed so it’s drivable. They have a bed, kitchenette, and dining area. 
  • Motorhomes – Motorhomes come in three classes: A, B, and C. Class A is the largest, with Class C coming in close behind. Both are drivable and designed to be like a home away from home, with fully-equipped kitchens, a bedroom, and a bathroom. They can also tow a car or boat. Class B motorhomes are more like touring coach vehicles.

When is RV insurance required?

In most states, you’re not required to have insurance for towable RVs. However, if you took out a loan to buy an RV, the lender might require you to buy full insurance coverage. If you’re buying a new RV, it’s still a good idea to buy full coverage, even if it’s optional. This will help pay for repairs or replacement if it’s damaged.

You’re always required to have insurance for drivable RVs, such as motorhomes, just like you would for any other vehicle. Every state requires minimum liability coverage for vehicles driven on the road. 

How much does RV insurance cost? 

The cost of auto insurance for an RV varies, depending on your insurance carrier and the type of RV. A Class A motorhome usually comes with higher rates than a travel trailer, for instance. 

Factors that affect insurance rates:

  • Type of RV
  • Usage (do you live in it full-time or just use it occasionally?)
  • Location
  • Your driving history

The average cost of insurance can vary per provider. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for a 12-month RV policy.

What does RV insurance cover?

You’ll find different types of coverage depending on the type of RV you have. Some basic coverages for RVs include: 

Truck Campers & motorhomes:

  • Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability
  • Uninsured Motorist
  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
  • Limited Property Damage
  • Property Protection
  • Comprehensive Coverage
  • Collision 

Towable RVs/Camper trailers:

  • Comprehensive 
  • Collision 

Your auto insurance policy should extend to a camper trailer but you may need the additional comprehensive and collision coverage. It’s important to have sufficient coverage to protect your assets in a serious accident or lawsuit. 

Additional coverage options

Many insurance companies offer specialized coverage over and above standard policies like the ones mentioned above. These policies can cover things like custom equipment and your personal belongings. They can also apply if you plan to live in your RV full-time. They include: 

  • Full-timer coverage 
  • Vacation liability  
  • Total Loss Replacement 
  • Custom Equipment 
  • Personal Effects 
  • Roadside Assistance 
  • Emergency Expenses
  • Medical Payments
  • Fire Department services
  • Loan Payoff Coverage (Gap Coverage)

Do you need RV insurance for rentals?

If you’re renting an RV, your auto insurance policy will often extend to the RV at least partially. However, you should check your policy or ask your insurance agent to determine what’s covered. Some policies only cover driving-related accidents, while others will extend full liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. 

If your auto policy doesn’t cover RV rentals, speak to your insurance agent about supplemental coverage. Some RV rental companies also offer supplemental insurance. 

Coverages you need:

  • RV liability
  • RV rental
  • Uninsured motorists

Ensure your RV has the right insurance coverage

Buying or renting an RV is an amazing way to travel and see the country. However, you must make sure you have the right RV insurance coverage to protect your vehicle, yourself, and your property. 

If you have questions about RV insurance or you’re interested in a quote, contact us today.

This blog and website are made available by the publisher for educational and informational purposes only. It is not to be used as a substitute for competent insurance, legal, or tax advice from a licensed professional in your state.