Recreational Vehicles, or RVs, are one of the most popular ways that Americans enjoy camping. They offer a number of benefits when compared to simplistic options such as tents due to their better protection, electricity, and household appliances.
For a lot of campers, an RV also acts as a mobile home, and people live either long-term or permanently in an RV. In today’s article, we are going to explore the insurance costs that motorhome RVs entail.
How Do I Know If My RV Needs Insurance?
The answer to this question depends on whether your RV is towed or a motorhome. Towed RVs are those that are attached to your truck or car. They don’t have an engine in them and rely on another vehicle for transportation. Insurance for this type is usually not required, with the exception of liability insurance.
On the other hand, if the RV you own is the kind that can be driven by itself and is a self-contained vehicle, then you are going to need insurance coverage.
Different Classes of RVs Have Different Insurance Rates
All motorhomes fall under a certain class (A, B, and C). The RV insurance cost for each class of motorhomes depends on a number of factors, including the value of the vehicle, the location where it is primarily operated, the driving history of the primary operator, and the coverage options selected.
Class A motorhomes refer to the large and expensive types of recreational vehicles (RV). They are built on a bus or truck chassis and typically feature a variety of amenities such as full bathrooms, kitchens, multiple sleeping areas, and slide-out sections to increase living space.
Class A motorhomes are the most expensive type of RV and are typically used for long-term travel and full-time living. They are also the most difficult to drive and maneuver due to their size and weight.
These motorhomes tend to have the highest insurance costs due to their value and size.
Class B motorhomes or camper vans are the most compact type of recreational vehicle (RV). They are built on a van chassis and typically feature basic amenities such as a small kitchenette, sleeping area, and bathroom.
Class B motorhomes are typically more agile and easier to drive and park than larger RVs like Class A motorhomes. They are also more fuel-efficient and less expensive to purchase.
They are ideal for short trips, weekend getaways, and for those who want to travel in a smaller, more compact RV. They are also called van conversions. Interestingly, there has been a trend of “Van Life,” where people decide to live in these sorts of RVs on a long-term basis.
These motorhomes tend to have lower insurance costs than Class A motorhomes.
Class C motorhomes, also known as mini motorhomes, are a type of recreational vehicle (RV) that are built on a truck or van chassis, with the living area over the cab. They usually have more amenities than a Class B motorhome, such as a moderately sized kitchen, sleeping area, and bathroom.
Class C motorhomes are larger than Class B motorhomes but smaller and more manageable than Class A motorhomes. They are often equipped with a cab-over bunk that can sleep two people. They are ideal for families, medium-term travel, and for those who want more space than Class B but more maneuverability than Class A.
Insurance prices for Class C motorhomes typically fall between Class A and Class B.
What Types of Insurance Options Exist?
There are a number of different coverage options that exist to suit different needs. Here are some areas that you will find most major insurance providers covering:
- Liability
- Medical
- Roadside Assistance
- Comprehensive and Collision
- Personal Property / Belongings
- Pet injury
Subtle Benefits of Insurance for RV Owners
Having insurance can provide a sense of security, knowing that you are protected against potential financial loss. This sense of security can be reassuring and take the weight off your shoulders when traveling.
In that same vein, insurance also gives you the ability to take risks. RV insurance typically covers your RV for comprehensive and collision damage, so you can enjoy exploring interesting places without having to worry about the cost of damages that might occur. (Don’t go crashing your RV deliberately, though!)
At the end of the day, the peace of mind you get from knowing that you and your RV will be well-protected against the risks and rigors of the road is simply priceless.
