CHEAP CAMPERVAN INSURANCE
We’ve made it easy to compare campervan insurance quotes from top insurers.
Get quotes for any make or model of campervan including: VW, Ford Transit and Mazda Bongo. Compare policies based on price and features.
WHAT IS CAMPERVAN INSURANCE?
Campervan Insurance can protect you and your vehicle from unexpected costs. It’s also known as motorhome insurance, and most insurers will offer the same policy for both motorhomes and campervans. However some insurers may offer specialist policies, particularly if you are trying to insure a classic campervan or a DIY conversion.
Campervan insurance is a legal requirement, just like car insurance. So if you own a camper and intend to drive it then you’ll need insurance. The only exception is to declare the vehicle off-road or (SORN).
What’s the difference between a motorhome and a campervan?
Campervans tend to be smaller than motorhomes. They also will usually have more basic facilities such as a row of seats which folds into a bed, a small sink and cooker and a fridge. The majority of motorhomes are purpose built, meaning they leave the factory as a motorhome. They’re usually built on top of a chassis of a van, the most popular is the Fiat Ducato. Although some campervans are purpose built from new many are converted, either by a professional fitter or a DIY enthusiast. Campervans can be converted from a huge range of van makes/models. Some of the most popular are the VW Transporter, Ford Transit and Mazda Bongo.
As campervans are smaller they are better suited to couples or small families. They’ll usually have fewer berths and less living space. Their smaller size makes them a little more practical and some people may choose to use a campervan as an everyday vehicle. However for insurance purposes, we’d always recommend you try to avoid this as it will limit the quotes you receive and increase your premium.
Are campervans cheaper to insure?
By default campervans are no more or less expensive to insure than motorhomes. However given that they are usually smaller, and have fewer features, premiums can be lower. It all depends on the specific vehicle you’re trying to insure, and your own personal circumstances. For instance, if you are looking to insure a brand new, high-specification campervan then you can expect to pay more than you would for an older, cheaper motorhome. The easiest way to find out how much you’ll need to pay is to compare campervan insurance quotes online.
Can I insure my van as a campervan?
If you have converted your van into a campervan then you will need to update your insurance. Some insurers may be able to amend an existing van policy depending on the nature of the conversion, but in most cases you will need a specialised campervan insurance policy. If you want your vehicle to be recognised legally as a campervan then you’ll need to apply to the DVLA to have it registered. If the van is not registered then some campervan insurers may still be able to offer cover. If you’re not sure, then you should always speak to the insurer before buying the policy.
What can I do to get cheaper campervan insurance?
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The make, model and specification of your campervan can make a huge difference to your insurance premium. You might want to consider a smaller, cheaper, more basic vehicle to start with in order to keep costs down. Campervans can also be modified from their original specification, leading to higher premiums.
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Taking extra steps to secure your campervan can reduce the chance of it being stolen, leading to cheaper premiums. Immobilisers and tracking devices are often included on newer vehicles but you can also add things like wheel clamps, steering locks or identity tags. If possible, try to park your camper in a secure location away from busy roads.
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How often do you drive your campervan and how many miles do you cover in a year? The more you drive the more you’re likely to pay for insurance. You should also have access to other vehicles. If you’re camper is your only vehicle then you are much more likely to pay more for insurance and may even be declined insurance by some providers.
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Just like car insurance, there are three types of cover for campervans. Comprehensive, Third Party Fire & Theft and Third Party Only. For most people, Comprehensive is probably the most suitable and is often the cheapest. However, if you’re willing to compromise a little you could opt for a lesser cover and try to save some pennies.
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Adding responsible drivers, with a good driving history can also reduce your premium. Be careful though as adding an extra driver can sometimes increase your premium too!
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Believe it or not, the day you buy your insurance can affect the price you pay. Try to buy your insurance well in advance of the date that you actually need it. If you leave it to the last minute you are much more likely to pay more.
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When it comes to renewal it’s easy to renew with your existing insurer. In fact some insurers will automatically renew your insurance unless you ask them not to. Whilst this can be convenient it’s not always the cheapest option. It’s always best to compare campervan insurance quotes at least once a year to make sure you’re still getting the best deal. As you start to build up a no claims history you may find that some insurers are able to beat your renewal quote.
VW CAMPERVAN INSURANCE
The VW campervan has become an iconic image of camping and caravanning. From the 1950’s onwards there have been a host of campervan conversions often based on the VW “Type 2” van also known as the Transporter, Microbus or Kombi depending on body type. The vans became particularly popular in the mid to late 60’s hippy and surfer movements.
Nowadays the vans have a massive following amongst enthusiasts. Many owners and dealers specialise in the restoration or conversion of the vans. Until recently new vans, made to the original specifications were still being manufactured in Brazil. However in December 2013 production ceased due to new safety standards.
Did you know? – VW Campervans are often referred to as “Splittys” due to the split in the front windshield.
You can get quotes for any VW campervan online. If you have a classic VW T2 then you might want compare quotes and go for a policy from a specialist insurer. It’s also a good idea to call the insurer before you purchase, so they can answer any questions you might have.
VW campervan styles
There are many different styles of the VW campervan including the earlier “Type 1” van. Most styles have several official and unofficial names.
Panel
VW panel vans were produced primarily as delivery vehicles. They feature an opaque panel in place of the side windows and are uncommon as campervans. Some models also feature side doors and raised roofs.
Samba Bus
This colourfully named model came with the highest trim level available, including a cloth sunroof and small windows above the main side windows.
Westfalia
Also known as “Westy’s”, Westfalia Campers were conversions of the standard VW type 2. Westfalia Campers were available from Volkswagen dealers worldwide and came with a host of standard and optional equipment including ice boxes, a sink and awnings.
