Why You Need RV Insurance

Like coverage for any automobile, RV insurance is often a requirement to operate a recreational vehicle on public roads. Individuals use RVs for both transportation and living quarters. 

Since several types of these unique vehicles exist, the best RV insurance policy will vary based on its size, value and other factors related to use. If you are planning on purchasing or renting one of these vehicles, then you will also need to obtain sufficient coverage.



How RV Insurance Differs From Other Coverages 

Whether choosing between Geico or Progressive RV insurance, it is important to know what recreational vehicle policies cover. These vehicles need specialized coverage since they are larger vehicles with features unique to automobiles.

Policies for RVs have the same coverage as standard auto policies, such as reimbursement for costs relating to property damage liability and medical costs. Additional coverage many owners opt for include the following:

  • Total replacement loss for replacement on brand-new vehicles 

  • Custom equipment to protect added-on upgrades

  • Roadside assistance, such as towing and repairs

  • Personal effect for the protection of items inside

The best RV insurance will cover the cost to repair or replace the vehicle should misfortune occur. Due to size and purpose, recreational vehicles are more costly to fix and replace and, therefore, policies have higher limits than standard cars. RVs can retail for $10,000 to $300,000. 

Additionally, many owners live in their RVs full-time or for a portion of the year. Providers may have policies for:

  • Part-time users. Occasional users may opt for campsite-liability RV insurance instead if they only use RVs for vacations. This type provides coverage whether the RV is parked or in motion.

  • Full-time occupiers. This type of insurance also provides coverage when the vehicle is in motion or when it is parked, but also covers personal items within the RV. It is similar to homeowner’s insurance. 

RV insurance companies will insure the vehicle based on how frequently it is used. If owners have their RV stored for most of the year, for example, then they will pay a reduced rate than if they lived in it all year. 


When to Get the Best RV Insurance

Drivers will need vehicle insurance before setting off on the open road. However, owners may want to select a policy as soon as they make their purchase. 


Renting

Rental companies require drivers to purchase some sort of RV insurance coverage before taking possession of the vehicle. Many eager road trippers are not used to operating such a large vehicle and companies want to protect their inventory from accidents.

Renters may be able to use their own Geico RV insurance or the company may have an additional fee for their coverage. An additional benefit for using the company’s insurer is that renters will not need to make a claim to their provider should they be at fault for damages. 


Buying

New owners will need coverage to drive their new vehicles on public roads. RV insurance will protect their purchase should it be involved in an accident. 

Even if owners are towing new purchases for storage until use, insurance is quite beneficial. Like getting coverage to protect a car parked in a garage, buying coverage for a parked RV can protect the investment should the following occur:

  • Theft

  • Vandalism

  • Damage from falling objects

  • Damage from weather or nature

Getting Policies From RV Insurance Companies

Some of the best RV insurance companies are the same ones that provide standard car and motorcycle coverage. For instance, Geico, Progressive and Allstate provide excellent coverage for RVs.

Progressive RV insurance covers all types of RVs from large class A motorhomes to utility trailers. Progressive even includes coverage for horse and cargo trailers.

Progressive is a great option for those who already use the provider for other vehicles as well as properties and wish to take advantage of multi-vehicle discounts. For instance, individuals with Progressive homeowners or renters policy can expand their coverage to their RV.

Geico RV insurance includes total-loss policies and replacement coverage for personal effects. The provider also has additional vacation liability for an extra $10,000 or protection for property damage and injuries.

Geico also has coverage for travel trailers and other living quarters that do not have motors. This coverage is perfect for:

  • Travel trailers. 

  • Fifth-wheel trailers.

  • Truck campers.

  • Trailers that expand, pop-up or unfold.

  • Trailers for motorcycles and other recreational vehicles.

Allstate insurance is perfect for retirees, as the provider has special discounts for drivers older than 55 years of age. The provider also has coverage for additional items towed, such as boats and ATVs.