Embarking on the open road in your RV is a thrilling adventure, but ensuring your peace of mind requires the right insurance coverage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of RV insurance, exploring the most affordable options and providing valuable tips on obtaining cost-effective coverage for your camper.
Cheapest RV Insurance Companies
1. Nationwide: Best for Full-Timers
Pros:
- Tailored coverage for full-time RVers
- Optional towing and labor coverage with trip interruption
- Extensive range of discounts
Cons:
- Lack of an online quote tool on the website
- No pet coverage
Discounts and Coverages:
- RV association and safety course discounts
- Towing and labor coverage, safety glass replacement
2. Progressive: Editor’s Choice
Pros:
- Abundance of discounts
- Accident forgiveness for small claims
- Various specialty coverage options
Cons:
- Availability of discounts varies by state
- Standard plans do not include coverage for personal effects
Discounts and Coverages:
- Prompt payment and quote in advance discounts
- Pest damage protection, Roof Protection Plus
3. Allstate: Good Coverage Selection
Pros:
- Pet coverage and tow bar coverage included
- Discounts for older RV owners
- Bundle options available
Cons:
- Fewer discounts compared to some competitors
- Higher number of customer complaints
Discounts and Coverages:
- Married and paperless discounts
- Full-timer liability, emergency expenses
4. Good Sam: Top Choice for Mexico Travel
Pros:
- Numerous discount choices as a broker
- Full-timer liability coverage
- Coverage extends to Mexico
Cons:
- Not a direct administrator or underwriter
- Some complaints about claims processing times
Discounts:
- Anti-theft and multi-vehicle discounts
5. Safeco: Top Choice for Part-Time RVers
Pros:
- Audio-visual equipment covered under standard policies
- Loan or lease protection available
- Bundling options with auto insurance
Cons:
- No commercial RV coverage
- Roadside assistance availability varies
Discounts and Coverages:
- Accident prevention course discount
- Private passenger discount, loan or lease protection
6. The Hartford: Best Choice for Retired RVers
Pros:
- Partnered with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
- New vehicle replacement coverage
- Discounts for RVers over 50
Cons:
- Limited optional coverages listed
- Exclusive to AARP members
Discounts and Coverages:
- RV safety course discount, bundling discount
- New vehicle replacement coverage
How Much Does RV Insurance Cost?
Understanding the cost of RV insurance is crucial. On average, policies hover around $1,500 per year, but the actual cost depends on various factors.
RV Insurance Rate Factors:
Driving History:
- Clean driving record for lower rates.
RV Value:
- Higher RV value leads to higher insurance costs.
Type of RV:
- Motorhome insurance is generally more expensive than travel trailer insurance.
Usage:
- Full-time RVers may pay more than those who store their campers.
RV Driving Experience:
- Insurers consider both general and RV-specific driving experience.
Location:
- Different areas have unique risk factors, impacting premiums.
Credit Score:
- Poor credit may result in higher premiums.
Coverage:
- Types and amounts of coverage affect the premium.
RV Insurance Coverage
Understanding the coverage options is crucial for tailoring your policy. Standard and additional coverages include:
Standard RV Coverage:
- Bodily Injury Liability
- Property Damage Liability
- Collision Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- Medical Payments (MedPay)
Additional RV Coverage:
- Emergency Expense Coverage
- Full-Timer Liability
- International Coverage
- Personal Property Coverage
- Pet Injury Coverage
- Rental Reimbursement
- Roadside Assistance
- Safety Glass Coverage
- Sound System Coverage
- Towing and Labor
- Vacation Liability
Types of RVs
Understanding the type of RV you own influences insurance premiums. RVs fall into two main categories:
Towables:
- Teardrop Trailers
- Pop-Up Campers
- Toy Haulers
- Travel Trailers
- Fifth-Wheel Trailers
- Truck Campers
Drivables:
- Class A Motorhomes
- Class B Motorhomes (Camper Vans)
- Class C Motorhomes
Towables generally have cheaper insurance as they lack their own engine and drivetrain.
RV Insurance Exclusions
While RV insurance provides extensive coverage, certain sources of damage are typically excluded:
- Wear and Tear
- Mold, Rot, Fungi
- Misuse
- Floods or Earthquakes (depending on location)
- Damage during storage violation
Does RV Insurance Cover Water Damage?
Comprehensive RV insurance generally covers water damage, except for damage resulting from excluded sources.
RV Damage Settlement Options
If your RV faces a total loss, the settlement amount depends on the type of damage settlement policy:
Actual Cash Value:
- Based on RV’s depreciated value at the time of loss.
Agreed Value:
- Agreed-upon amount at the policy’s start.
Total Loss Replacement:
- Replacement cost based on the same make, model, and year.
How To Get the Cheapest RV Insurance?
Lowering RV premiums involves strategic actions:
RV Insurance Discounts:
Multi-Policy:
- Bundle RV insurance with other coverage.
Multi-Vehicle:
- Cover more than one camper under the same policy.
Association:
- Join RV clubs and associations for discounts.
Good Driver:
- Maintain a clean driving record.
Paid in Full:
- Pay the annual premium upfront.
Military:
- Discounts for active or retired military members.
Claim-Free:
- Go an extended period without claims.
Take an RV Safety Course:
Completing an approved safety course not only enhances skills but also qualifies for insurance discounts.
Establish a Storage Period:
Declare regular storage periods to potentially qualify for lower rates, but ensure compliance to avoid coverage issues.
Read Also:
Conclusion:
Navigating the realm of RV insurance requires a balance between coverage and affordability. By choosing the right insurer and leveraging discounts, you can embark on your RV adventures with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have the best and most affordable coverage. Safe travels!
