The freedom to explore new places, from quaint villages to sun-soaked coasts, is what makes owning a campervan so special. However, as exciting as the journey is, it’s important to make sure your campervan is ready for the road ahead. A breakdown or unexpected incident can quickly turn a dream holiday into a nightmare. Thankfully, with a bit of planning, you can avoid the stress of travel disruptions.
- Know What Your Policy Covers
Comprehensive campervan insurance offers the most robust protection, covering everything from accidents to theft. However, if you opt for a more basic policy like fire and theft cover, your protection could fall short if anything else goes wrong. Before setting off, take the time to review your policy details.
If you plan to park up in remote areas or even leave your campervan for extended periods, theft protection becomes vital. For peace of mind, make sure your campervan insurance covers the full range of scenarios you may encounter on your travels, from accidental damage to extreme weather conditions.
- Declare Modifications and Valuations
If you’ve made any campervan modifications, even simple changes, now is the time to let your insurer know. If you don’t, you could end up underinsured, which means your insurer might not cover the full cost of repairs or replacement.
Equally important is providing an accurate valuation of your campervan. Campervans can depreciate or, in some cases, appreciate, depending on their condition and market trends. Knowing your campervan’s current value will help ensure that any potential claim fully covers the costs you’d face in the event of damage or theft.
- Check European Travel Requirements
Planning to take your campervan abroad, perhaps to the sun-soaked French Riviera or the South of Spain? You’ll need to make sure your insurance covers European travel. Many UK policies extend to cover trips across Europe, but not all offer the same level of protection.
You should also verify whether your breakdown cover extends to European roads. It’s often worth investing in a European roadside assistance package to ensure you’re not left stranded in a foreign country without support.
- Prepare for Emergencies
While nobody plans a breakdown, it’s important to prepare for the unexpected. Make sure your campervan insurance includes breakdown cover. This protection can range from basic roadside assistance to more comprehensive options, like towing and repairs. Ideally, you want coverage that helps you get back on the road quickly, especially if you’re far from home.
Some policies also cover the cost of a hotel room or other temporary lodgings if your van is off the road for an extended period. These small steps can make all the difference in keeping your holiday stress-free.
- Keep Premiums Sensible
You might assume that the more protection you have, the higher your premiums will be. However, by improving your campervan’s security, you can lower your premium. Some insurers also offer discounts if you agree to limit your mileage. This is worth considering if you don’t plan on covering vast distances during your trip.
By taking these simple precautions, you can protect both your campervan and your journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy the open road without unnecessary worries.
