Does My Car Insurance Cover an RV?

Owning a recreational vehicle (RV) can open up a world of possibilities, from short-term vacations to long-term adventures. Whether you plan to go fully nomadic or just take the RV out on occasional vacations, owning an RV still brings many risks that need to be acknowledged right away. 

Before you head out, you'll need the right insurance coverage to protect you and your RV from accidents, theft, and other problems that can occur. Fortunately, an independent insurance agent can help you get all the RV insurance you need. But first, we'll take a closer look at whether and when your car insurance policy covers your RV, and when you might need a separate policy.

Does Car Insurance Cover RVs?

In some cases, your car insurance will cover an RV, but only if it's trailered. In these cases, your auto liability insurance, which covers damage or injuries you cause in an accident, usually extends to your RV. Your auto insurance won't cover physical damage to the RV or trailer unless you specifically add RV or trailer coverage to your car insurance policy. 

What Is RV Insurance? 

Recreational vehicle insurance, or RV insurance, blends homeowners insurance and auto insurance coverage into one policy. It protects the RV from collisions with other vehicles or objects and damage caused by weather, vandalism, theft, and other perils. In addition, it should cover your personal property inside the RV and provide liability protection if you cause injury or damage to someone else. 

RV insurance can be purchased as an add-on to your auto insurance policy, but not all insurance companies offer this. However, you'll need a separate RV insurance policy if your motorhome is classified as class A, class B, or class C, if it's financed, if it's a rental, and to cover the personal property inside. You must have at least the state minimum for liability coverage for motorhomes because they are driven and not towed. 

RV insurance is generally divided into two categories: recreational and full-timers. If you don't live in your RV full-time, recreational insurance will cover your RV inside and out when you’re on the road or parked at a campsite. A full-time RV insurance policy is for those who use a motorhome or travel trailer as their primary residence. 

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When Is RV Insurance Mandatory?

If your RV has its own motor (like a motorhome), you’ll need liability insurance for it, just like you need insurance for your car. These RVs are classified as Class A, B, and C. You'll need at least the minimum amounts of liability coverage as required by your state. 

If your RV is a trailer like a pop-up camper or a travel trailer that you tow behind a separate vehicle, RV insurance isn’t required since the liability coverage from your car insurance will generally also apply to the trailer, as long as it’s listed in your policy. 

If you finance the purchase of your RV, your lender will likely require you to buy comprehensive and collision coverage in addition to liability coverage. In these cases, you'll need a separate RV insurance policy that can cover physical damage to your RV. If you live in your RV full-time, you’ll need special “full-timer” RV insurance that combines elements of auto insurance and homeowners insurance. 

When it comes to demystifying RV coverage, an independent insurance agent is your greatest ally. An agent can review your existing car insurance policy to see if it extends to an RV. And your agent can help you add any RV insurance you may need if you don't have it already.

What Does RV Insurance Cover?

A basic RV insurance policy will likely include the following types of coverage:

• Liability coverage (required by law in most states) protects you if you cause injury or damage to someone else while operating your RV.
• Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage work just like your auto insurance policy's comprehensive and collision coverage. They cover physical damage to your RV. They are optional, but your lender will require them if you finance your RV.
• Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver while operating your RV.
• Medical payments coverage pays for medical expenses for you or your passengers if you’re in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

A variety of other RV insurance coverage options are available. Depending on the insurance company you choose, these may include:

• International travel coverage: This will cover you if you plan to drive your RV into Mexico or Canada.
• Loss replacement coverage: This will help you replace your RV if it is declared a total loss.
• Personal property insurance: This provides coverage for personal items inside your RV, such as clothing, kitchen items, tools, equipment, electronics, and more. 
• Attached accessories coverage: This reimburses you for damage to items like awnings or TV antennas that are not covered under the basic policy.
• Emergency expenses coverage: This reimburses you for hotel or transportation costs after you’ve had an accident and cannot use your RV.
• Campsite and vacation coverage: This protects you if you use your RV or motorhome as a temporary residence during a vacation. It covers your liability exposures in these situations.

Part-time RV users who only use their vehicle during certain months can suspend their collision and liability coverage when the RV is not in use. This can help them save money on their premiums. 

Does Car or RV Insurance Cover a Rented RV?

Your auto insurance coverage may extend to an RV rental. Keep in mind that if it does, there may be additional limitations and exclusions. If your auto insurance doesn't cover a rented RV, the RV rental service may require you to buy it. Be sure to check with your insurer before assuming your car insurance will cover RV rentals. 

How Much Does RV Insurance Cost?

The average cost of RV insurance currently ranges from $600 to $3,000 per year. Like auto insurance, the cost of your RV insurance can vary depending on many factors, like:

• The size of the RV
• The make and model of the RV
• The value of the RV
• Your location
• Your RV insurance claims history
• How often and how the RV will be used

An independent insurance agent in your area can help you find the most affordable RV insurance that works best for you.

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How Can an Independent Insurance Agent Help You Find RV Insurance? 

An independent insurance agent can simplify the process by shopping and comparing insurance quotes for you. Independent insurance agents also have access to multiple insurance companies, ultimately finding you the best car and RV insurance coverage and competitive pricing. And down the road, your agent can help you file claims or update your coverage as necessary.