RV Insurance: What You Need to Know About Costs, Coverage, and Discounts

Latch.it
Jul 14, 2021
5 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

How much does RV insurance cost? What is the cheapest RV insurance on the market? Learn the answers to these and more inside.

Couple leans on RV, smiling, by scenic coastal road with mountains and blue sky background. Relaxed mood, greenery around.

If you plan to live in your RV full-time or temporarily, you’ll need to purchase an RV insurance policy. An RV is an investment. The same concepts that apply to insure your brick and mortar home or passenger car apply to an RV insurance policy. Choosing the proper coverage to cover your house on wheels from theft, damage, and contents protection calls for cautious consideration. On average, full-time RV insurance costs around $1500. RV insurance costs range from $1000 to $2000 for most RVs in the US. However, RV insurance policies and costs can vary according to the type and condition of RV, the state, and the market in general.

Read on to learn more about RV insurance and how to choose the right policy for your travels.

What is RV Insurance?

RV insurance coverage varies between recreational and full-time policies. It protects you, as a recreational vehicle owner, from excessive out-of-pocket costs in the event of a loss or if you are at fault in an accident that causes bodily injury or property damage. It can also provide compensation for your costs if you have a roadside breakdown.

Factors Affecting Your RV Insurance Rates

In addition to your region, you’ll find that many other factors affect your rates. The following are some of the key variables that will affect your average RV Insurance cost:

The type of motorhome you drive: There are so many kinds of motorhomes that it is nearly impossible to get a “typical cost” until the particulars of your RV make and model are known.
The age and condition of your RV: Even comparing two relatively new RVs of the same make and model, there will be differences in value based on wear and tear.
Your experience driving an RV: Driving a motorhome is very different from driving a car. RV drivers require a period of adjustment to learn about height restrictions on bridges and in parking garages, checking blind spots, and watching “back swing” when turning corners in tight spaces. The more experience you have as an RV driver, the less risky you are to insure.
Accidents and traffic violations: Your history as a driver matters. If you have been in several accidents or have a number of traffic tickets, an insurance company will consider you at greater risk for another accident.
Where you live: If you live in an area with higher rates of accidents and thefts, your insurance cost will likely be higher. Areas with mountainous terrain or severe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms and blizzards, typically have more dangerous road conditions.
Where you will travel: How and where you use your motorhome makes a difference. If you only use it occasionally, you will not face as many risks as a full-timer. How far you travel is also important; you will experience more potential hazards by spending a month on the road and traveling thousands of miles.
How much you drive: If you are a full-timer and your motorhome is also your main residence, you will likely have higher insurance costs for two reasons – because you are on the road more, and because the risks of homeownership are associated with your RV instead of a street address.
How many claims you file: Let’s say you get into a number of scrapes in the process of learning how to navigate turns and lane changes in your new Class A motorhome. If you file a claim against your insurance policy for each one instead of managing some of the costs out of pocket, your insurance costs will rise.
The type and amount of insurance you buy: Even taking into account all of the factors above, the typical cost you can expect to pay for your motorhome insurance will depend upon what you get and where you set your limits.

What Coverage Do I Need

Because an RV is a vehicle, it makes sense that an insurance policy covering comprehensive (liability) and collision incidents would apply. But because an RV is also a temporary or even permanent home, RV insurance runs a bit deeper than a standard vehicle policy. RV insurance is basically a blending of elements from both a vehicle and a homeowner’s insurance policy, resulting in a complete, specialized coverage package. In addition to the basics, choosing from different options and levels of coverage are what makes RV insurance a smart move for complete protection. Some specialized RV coverage options include:

Total loss replacement
Personal property replacement
Emergency insurance coverage providing food, lodging, and alternate transportation should your RV break down while on the road.

The RV lifestyle is all about hitting the open road and the up-close-and-personal experience of enjoying the great outdoors. However, having the peace of mind that your RV, personal contents, and pocketbook are all protected in case of an incident or accident while on the road is priceless. For full-time RVers, insurance coverage has got your back with even more customized options:

Liability (damage to people or property) in the event of accidents in the RV, at the campsite, towing expenses/damage.
Stolen personal items not covered under a standard homeowner’s policy.
Comprehensive coverage for theft, vandalism, or fire.
Storage expenses.

Average RV Insurance Costs Based On RV Classes

Class A RVs: Also known as motorhomes, these are the largest and most expensive types of RVs. Premiums are calculated based on various factors, including usage. According to estimates, the average annual insurance premium for a gas-powered Class A motorhome is approximately $1,000-$1,300, based on usage of 140 days per year.

Class B RVs: These are the smallest of the three categories, also known as camper vans or conversion vans. These RVs can often be covered under a standard vehicle insurance policy. Annual premiums are calculated similarly to a regular auto policy, factoring in driving record, primary location, vehicle value, type of coverage, and specific insurance rates.

Class C RVs: Mid-sized motorhomes, many of which feature a sleeping area extending above the main cab. Premiums for Class C motorhomes can range from $800 to $1,000+ annually, depending on factors like state, usage, and RV age.

Fifth-Wheel and Travel Trailers: Travel trailers are typically less expensive to insure. Premiums can range from approximately $200 up to over $1,000 for newer, frequently used trailers.

How to Get Discounts on RV Insurance

Bundling – The more policies you have, the more money you can save. Bundle your auto, homeowners, and RV insurance to get the best deal.
New owner – If you are the original owner of an RV, you may qualify for a discount.
Paying the entire annual premium upfront – Paying in full rather than monthly can earn you a discount.
Good driver – A clean driving record for at least three years may earn you a discount.
Claim-free – No claims on your record means savings on discounts for new policies.
Autopay – Sign up for automatic monthly payments to save on administrative fees.
Paperless – Using online statements and payments can earn you a discount.
Non-smoker – Some insurers offer discounts for non-smokers as part of a healthy lifestyle discount.
Anti-theft devices – Installing theft prevention devices in your RV can lead to lower premiums.