Campervan Insurance Guide: Cover, Costs and Quotes

What is campervan insurance?

Campervan insurance is a specialist type of vehicle insurance for campervans, which are typically smaller than motorhomes and based on van conversions such as VW Transporters, though the category also includes larger panel van conversions and classic camper models. Because campervans often include a conversion — kitchen units, beds, storage and sometimes solar panels or awnings — a standard car or van policy usually doesn't provide adequate cover for the vehicle as a whole.

Policies are generally arranged to reflect both the base vehicle and the conversion, and many insurers offer agreed value cover, which sets a fixed value for the vehicle at the start of the policy rather than relying on a general market valuation. This can be particularly relevant for self-build conversions or classic campers where market value can be harder to assess.

Who needs campervan insurance?

Anyone who owns a campervan, whether used for weekend trips, longer touring holidays, or as an occasional second vehicle, needs appropriate cover. This includes owners of factory-converted vehicles, professionally converted vans, and self-build conversions carried out by the owner.

It's also relevant to people who hire out their campervan to others, whether through peer-to-peer hire platforms or a small rental business, though this typically requires specific hire cover rather than a standard personal use policy. Owners of classic or vintage campervans may also need agreed value cover to reflect the vehicle's collector or sentimental value.

What does campervan insurance typically cover?

Comprehensive campervan policies typically cover the base vehicle, the conversion, and often contents and personal belongings carried inside, though the extent varies between insurers.

• Vehicle damage, fire and theft
• Conversion cover for fixtures such as kitchen units, beds and awnings
• Contents cover for belongings carried in the van
• Agreed value cover, particularly relevant for self-builds and classic models
• European cover for touring trips
• Breakdown cover suited to larger, loaded vehicles

What affects the cost of campervan insurance?

The value of the vehicle and its conversion, the age of the van, and whether it's a professional or self-build conversion all influence pricing. Self-builds sometimes require more detailed information to be provided to insurers, including photographs and a breakdown of work carried out, so that the conversion can be accurately valued.

Security features such as alarms, immobilisers and where the van is kept overnight — for example on a driveway versus on the street — also affect price, as campervans can be targeted for theft of both the vehicle and contents. Annual mileage, driver experience and claims history are additional standard factors that insurers take into account.

Tips for campervan owners arranging insurance

If you have a self-build conversion, keep photographs and receipts documenting the work and materials used, as this can support both the valuation and any future claim. Consider agreed value cover if your campervan has a conversion or specification that could be hard to replace at standard market value.

• Declare the conversion in detail, including appliances and fixtures fitted
• Ask about agreed value cover, especially for classic or self-build vans
• Check whether contents cover has a single-item limit that suits your equipment
• Review security requirements, as some insurers expect specific alarms or trackers
• Consider European cover if you plan to travel abroad

How to get a quote

Campervan insurance varies a lot depending on conversion type, value and how the vehicle is used, so speaking to a specialist broker can help match the right policy to your van. A short form describing your campervan and its conversion will be passed to a broker who can provide tailored options, with no obligation to proceed.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between campervan and motorhome insurance?

Campervans are generally smaller van-based conversions, while motorhomes are typically larger, coach-built vehicles; insurers often treat them as distinct categories due to differences in size, value and use.

Can I insure a self-build campervan conversion?

Yes, many insurers cover self-build conversions, though they may ask for more detail about the work carried out and materials used to assess the vehicle's value accurately.

Does campervan insurance cover my belongings inside the van?

Many policies include some contents cover for personal belongings, though limits vary, so it's worth checking whether this suits the value of equipment you typically carry.

Is agreed value cover worth it for a campervan?

It can be useful for self-builds, classic conversions or vehicles with bespoke specifications, as it sets a fixed value rather than relying on market valuation after a claim.

Will my campervan be covered if I travel to Europe?

Many policies offer European cover as standard or as an optional extension, but it's worth confirming the number of days covered and any countries excluded.