Choosing the right caravan insurance is all about making sure you’re protected when you need it most. Whether you’re setting off on a big family road trip in your touring caravan or heading to the countryside for a relaxing weekend in a static caravan, the right insurance can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to choose the right caravan insurance, as well as what to look out for in a policy, so you can hit the road with confidence and peace of mind. Let’s get started.
At Towergate, we know that different caravans need different types of cover. Whether you’ve got a static or a touring caravan, there’s tailored cover that’s right for you. Let’s break down what each type of insurance includes and why it’s important:
Static caravan insurance
As the name suggests, static caravan insurance is tailored for caravans that stay put (usually in a holiday park). At Towergate, you can choose between new for old cover, which replaces your caravan with a new one if it’s less than 20 years old and damaged beyond repair, and market value cover, which compensates you based on your caravan’s current value if it’s up to 30 years old.
We also offer public liability insurance as standard, which many parks will ask you to have in place. We can also add extras to your policy, such as key protection in case of lost or stolen keys, or cover for renting out your static caravan.
Touring caravan insurance
Touring caravan insurance is for a caravan that you tow behind your car on adventures. This cover includes protection against damage while towing, as well as storm and flood damage when parked. Theft is also covered, provided you meet any security requirements that are specified in your policy.
We include both public liability cover and up to £1,000 worth of contents cover as standard, with the option to increase it if you need more. You can also add key protection and legal cover to your policy for extra peace of mind.
Making sure your caravan has the right level of insurance coverage is the best way to protect yourself against hefty costs if the unexpected happens. Here are a few options to consider.
Damage, theft and liability protection
This covers you against damage to your caravan, theft, and liability if your caravan causes harm to another party or their property. Whether you have an accident on the road while towing or fall victim to storm damage, this level of cover means you won’t be left footing the bill.
Public liability cover
This covers the costs incurred from damages or injuries caused to third parties and is included as standard in all Towergate boat insurance policies. Note that this policy does not cover damage or theft for your own caravan. Please consult your Towergate advisor to explore your cover options.
Contents insurance
You might keep personal belongings in your caravan, like camping gear and clothing. Contents insurance can keep those belongings protected against damage, theft, or loss, so you don’t have to worry about replacing them out of your pocket if something goes wrong.
As with all types of insurance, there are numerous factors that will influence which policy is right for you and how much it’ll cost. Here are some that are worth keeping in mind:
How you use your touring caravan
Think about whether you’re travelling solely in the UK or planning an overseas adventure. Domestic and international travel can affect the type of coverage you need and the quote you’ll receive. So, make sure your policy reflects where you’ll be using your caravan.
How you use your static caravan
Make sure your policy reflects how you’ll be using your static caravan. For example, whether your caravan is for sole use or you choose to rent it out, ensure your policy is suitable for how you intend on using it.
Knowing your caravan’s worth
It’s important to ensure the value you are insured for is the correct amount and doesn’t leave you underinsured. If it is underinsured, you might not have enough to cover any repairs or replacements. It’s important to review your policy cover on a regular basis and contact your provider to update your caravan’s value to ensure you remain adequately insured.
When opting for ‘new for old’ cover, it is important to ensure the value you insure your caravan for is the value of a new caravan of a similar, or the same, make and model. For ‘market value’ cover, you should provide the current market value of the caravan, accounting for its type, age, wear and tear and general condition in the open market at the time of the loss.
Boosting security
Adding security features like alarms and tracking devices can help to prevent your caravan from being stolen. You should ask your provider whether there are any security requirements on your policy. Even if there aren’t, it’s worth considering additional security features, as these can often act as a deterrent for thieves.
Safe storage
Where you store your touring caravan or where your static caravan is sited is often an important consideration for insurance providers, as some may not offer a policy if the location has minimal or no security in place. Therefore, you should check what security features your site or storage has implemented (such as CCTV, locked gates or full perimeter fencing) and whether it is accepted by your provider prior to taking out a policy.
No claims discount
Some insurance providers offer a reduction on your premium depending on how many claims free years you have accrued. You can ask your provider whether this is something they offer.
As with any insurance, the type of caravan you own, its value at the time of insuring, and the security features you have will all be important in determining your premium. To get the most competitive deal, it’s always worth comparing quotes and taking a careful look at your coverage options.
At Towergate, we make it easy to tailor your caravan insurance to fit your lifestyle, whether it’s a static caravan or touring caravan. With the right cover in place, you can head off on your next adventure with confidence.
Get a specialist caravan insurance quote from us today, either online or by phoning us on 0330 808 9130.
Adam Summersby is a respected leader with 11 years’ varied experience in niche personal and commercial lines insurance, including caravan, site operators and excess reimbursement, with proficiency in leadership, sales and account management.
Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems we recommend that professional advice be sought.
Date: December 16, 2024
Category: Caravan