10 things you need to know to insure your RV
Published Aug 09, 2024
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Homes, cars, and boats: insurance is recommended with each of these large purchases, and RVs fall under the same category. Like any other vehicle, RVs are susceptible to incurring damage. Buying insurance is a proactive measure that can save you major headaches in the future, so we’ve answered a few common questions related to the RV insurance process.
1. How much does RV insurance cost?
As you can imagine, the price of insuring your RV will differ by company. We can provide some perspective on average monthly costs, but this number is ultimately subject to change. It will vary based on the quality, year, and model of your RV as well. In general, research indicates that insuring a class A motorhome costs roughly $1000-1300 a year, whereas a less lavish model may cost as little as $300 annually. Progressive, one company that offers RV insurance, has a handy tool on their website to help customers determine what they might be paying. This function prompts users to provide some basic information about themselves and their RVs, and they will then receive an insurance pricing estimate. To get a more detailed picture of what insuring your vehicle entails, calculate the total using specifics like year, model, and make.
2. What’s the difference for full-time vs part-time RVers?
Before looking into insurance for your RV, it's important to consider your living situation. If you spend more than half the nights in a year in your RV, this likely means you qualify for full-time RV coverage. These plans cover a broader range of hypothetical crises, and they can apply even if you also own a house. Part-time RV insurance is beneficial for short trips, but the full-time alternative covers travelers who embark on months-long stays.
3. What exactly does RV insurance cover?
Much like with plans for other possessions, RV insurance is intended to protect owners against unforeseen circumstances that may crop up and lead to inconvenience. A few situations that lie beyond buyer control and would be covered by insurance are theft, vandalism, weather damage, and destruction enacted by animals. Heed this warning: don’t fall into the trap of believing that you’re invulnerable to these occurrences because you don’t know how frustrating they are until they’re afflicting you personally. Purchasing insurance ahead of time can save you from a lot of anguish in the future when unexpected damage suddenly befalls your RV.
4. What factors affect the price of RV insurance?
Understandably, the question of price looms over many when RV insurance is discussed. There is no set cost for insurance rates, and several factors can cause these numbers to fluctuate. Your location, RV model, and driving history can all influence what you’ll be asked to pay for insurance.
5. Which companies offer RV insurance packages?
Though RV ownership is slightly more niche than owning a house or standard car, there are still many significant insurance providers that sell RV insurance. Progressive, Geico, State Farm, and Allstate are a few of the familiar companies that can protect you and your RV. Other options, like RV America Insurance, are aimed at RV owners specifically. When deciding which provider to purchase from, it’s crucial to do thorough research so you can decide which package matches your needs best.
6. Is RV insurance mandatory?
When you decide to buy an RV, you’re simultaneously agreeing to take on any risks associated with owning one. Accidents, damage, and theft, though certainly avoidable, are potential problems that insurance seeks to protect you from. Because of this, some degree of RV insurance is required in every state except Virginia and New Hampshire. In Virginia, those who choose to forgo RV insurance must pay an “uninsured motorist” fee to the DMV.
7. Can I get a discount on my RV insurance?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of purchasing RV coverage, then we have news that could offer some relief. Fortunately, there is more than one avenue to receiving discounts on your RV insurance policy. Having a clean driving record shows providers that you can be trusted, and it can often result in some of your policy charges being shaved off. Paying your full total upfront is another common method of receiving a discount.
8. What additional perks can I add to my insurance policy?
Though baseline insurance is mandatory in most states, travelers can purchase a few additional benefits if interested. Many insurance companies sell roadside assistance, a 24/7 service that will come to the rescue when customers pop a tire or need a jumpstart. Safety glass replacement is another common policy add-on that more accident-prone RV owners should consider.
9. How much RV insurance do I need?
Not every insurance policy is created equal. Certain coverage plans are more expansive than others, and these may not be strictly necessary for those who use their RVs less frequently. If you only use your RV for a few brief trips each year, for instance, there’s a good chance you won’t be buying the same plan as someone with multiple weeks-long vacations on the agenda. Weigh the price of insurance with the amount of use your RV gets to determine what level of coverage you need.
10. What if I only use my RV during the summer?
RV travel is especially popular during summertime when school is out, and adults are ready to take time off work. As of right now, unfortunately, there is no policy that only lasts through summer. Your best option is to let your insurance company know how much use your RV will be getting, as they’ll likely lower your premium cost.
Insurance is a must-have if you want guaranteed protection
Like any insurance policy, RV coverage is designed with your best interests in mind. Stressful circumstances like accidents, theft, or damage can strike at any time, and preparing for the worst will equip you with the knowledge, comfort, and assurance you need to enjoy RV travel to the fullest.
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