Motorhome Insurance for New Owners: What Cover Do You Need?

Published 1 July 2026

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Buying your first motorhome is a big moment. Whether you’ve been dreaming of touring the Scottish Highlands, exploring the Welsh coast, or heading off across Europe, owning a motorhome opens up a whole new way to travel. Before you start planning your first adventure, there’s one important thing to tick off the list: making sure you’ve got the right insurance.

Motorhome insurance isn’t just about meeting legal requirements. The right policy helps protect your vehicle, your belongings and your adventures, giving you one less thing to worry about while you’re enjoying life on the road.

In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of motorhome insurance, what they cover, the optional extras worth considering, and how to choose a policy that suits the way you travel.

    Why is Motorhome Insurance Different?

    Although you drive a motorhome like any other vehicle, it’s doing much more than getting you from A to B. It’s your accommodation, your kitchen, your storage space and, for many owners, a home away from home.

    That means the risks are different too. Unlike a standard car, a motorhome often contains valuable personal belongings, fitted equipment and living facilities, and it may spend extended periods parked at campsites or in storage. A standard car insurance policy isn’t designed to cover many of these unique aspects of motorhome ownership, which is why specialist motorhome insurance is worth considering.

    Whether you’ve invested in a brand-new motorhome or found the perfect pre-owned model, choosing cover that’s built around the way you’ll use it can make all the difference if the unexpected happens

    Family cooks on an open campfire by their motorhome

    The Different Levels of Cover

    Like most vehicle insurance, motorhome insurance comes in three main levels.

    Third Party Only

    This is the minimum level of insurance needed to drive legally in the UK. It covers damage or injury caused to other people, their vehicles or their property. However, it won’t cover repairs to your own motorhome if you’re involved in an accident. For many owners, particularly those with a newer or more valuable motorhome, this level of cover offers fairly limited protection.

    Third Party, Fire and Theft

    This includes everything covered under Third Party insurance while also protecting your motorhome if it’s stolen or damaged by fire. It’s a step up in protection, but accidental damage to your own vehicle still isn’t included.

    Comprehensive Cover

    Comprehensive insurance offers the widest level of protection and is often the preferred option for new motorhome owners.
    Depending on the policy, comprehensive cover can include protection against:

    • Accidental damage
    • Fire
    • Theft
    • Vandalism
    • Storm damage
    • Third-party claims

    Policies vary between insurers, so it’s always worth checking exactly what’s included before you buy.

    Optional Extras Worth Considering

    No two motorhome owners travel in exactly the same way. Some enjoy the occasional weekend away, while others spend weeks exploring the UK and Europe. That’s why many policies allow you to add optional cover that’s tailored to your adventures.

    Breakdown Cover - Just Kampers Insurance

    Breakdown Cover

    Breaking down is never ideal, but recovering a motorhome is often more complicated than recovering a standard car. Specialist breakdown cover can help get you moving again or arrange recovery if repairs can’t be made at the roadside.

    If you’re planning longer trips or travelling in remote areas, it’s often one of the most valuable optional extras. Add breakdown cover to your Just Kampers Insurance policy from as little as £79 a year, and enjoy complete peace of mind on the road.

    Contents Cover

    One of the biggest differences between a car and a motorhome is everything you carry inside. From camping chairs and outdoor equipment to clothing, electronics and cooking gear, the value of your belongings can quickly add up. It’s worth considering Just Kampers Insurance’s optional Contents Cover to give you that extra peace of mind.

    Agreed Value Cover

    If you’ve invested in a particularly valuable motorhome or added upgrades and modifications, Just Kampers’ optional agreed value cover can offer extra peace of mind. Rather than relying solely on market value, you and your insurer agree on your motorhome’s value in advance. This can make the claims process much simpler if your motorhome is ever written off.

    Overhead shot of a motorhome at a campsite

    Travelling in Europe with Your Motorhome

    One of the biggest advantages of owning a motorhome is the freedom to explore beyond the UK. Whether you’re touring the French countryside, following the coast through Spain or discovering the Alps, having the right insurance in place means you can travel with greater confidence.

    With Just Kampers Insurance, European Driving Cover is included with your motorhome policy as standard, allowing you to drive in a wide range of European countries without arranging separate insurance for each trip. The level of protection you receive abroad will usually match the level of cover you’ve chosen for your policy, whether that’s Third Party, Third Party, Fire & Theft or Comprehensive. In some circumstances, cover may be limited to Third Party only, but this will be made clear before your policy is arranged.

    If you need to make a claim while travelling in Europe, the process is much the same as it is in the UK. As soon as it’s safe to do so, contact your insurer and gather as much information as possible, including photographs, details of any other parties involved, witness information (where available) and any police or accident reports. Keeping receipts for emergency repairs or accommodation may also be helpful if they’re relevant to your claim.

    If you’re planning an extended European road trip, it’s also worth considering European Breakdown Cover. Recovering a motorhome overseas can be more complex than recovering a standard car, and specialist breakdown assistance can help you get back on the road or arrange recovery if your vehicle can’t be repaired locally. Just Kampers Insurance offers UK and European breakdown assistance as an optional extra for added peace of mind.

    Before you travel, take a few minutes to review your policy documents. They’ll explain which countries are covered, any limits on the duration of European travel, the level of cover that applies overseas and exactly what to do if you need to make a claim while you’re away. Knowing this before you set off means you can focus on enjoying the journey, wherever the road takes you.

    What Can Affect the Cost of Motorhome Insurance?

    There’s no one-size-fits-all price for motorhome insurance. Every quote is based on a range of factors, including:

    • The age, make and value of your motorhome
    • Where it’s stored when not in use
    • Your annual mileage
    • Your driving history and previous claims
    • Any approved security devices fitted
    • Whether the vehicle has been modified

    Keeping your motorhome in secure storage, fitting additional security devices and accurately estimating your annual mileage could all help reduce the cost of your premium.

    While price is always important, it’s worth looking at the overall cover too. A cheaper policy isn’t always the best option if it leaves you without protection for the things that matter most.

    Tips for First-Time Motorhome Owners

    Choosing motorhome insurance can feel overwhelming when you’re new to motorhome ownership, but asking yourself a few simple questions can help you find the right level of cover. Before getting a quote from Just Kampers Insurance, think about:

    • How often will you use your motorhome?
    • Will you be travelling in the UK only, or heading into Europe?
    • Do you need cover for personal belongings and camping equipment?
    • Have you added any accessories or modifications that need protecting?
    • Would optional extras like specialist breakdown cover or agreed value cover give you extra peace of mind?

    Your answers will help you choose a Just Kampers Insurance policy that’s tailored to the way you travel, so you’re not paying for cover you don’t need or missing protection for the things that matter most.

    Before taking out a policy, it’s always worth reading the policy documents carefully so you understand exactly what’s covered, what’s excluded and any conditions you need to meet to stay insured. At Just Kampers Insurance, you can view and download our policy booklets before you buy, giving you the opportunity to review the cover in full and make an informed decision with confidence.

    Just Kampers Insurance - Price Promise.svg

    Why compromise on insuring your precious vehicle when we’ll give you £50* if we are not the cheapest.

    Finding the Right Motorhome Insurance

    Choosing the right motorhome insurance isn’t just about finding the cheapest quote; it’s about making sure you’re properly protected for the way you use your vehicle.

    Every motorhome owner is different. You might be planning the occasional weekend getaway, regular touring holidays around the UK, or extended trips across Europe. The right policy should reflect how you travel, where you store your motorhome, and any extras you’ve invested in, from awnings and bike racks to upgraded interiors and personal belongings.

    When comparing policies, it’s worth taking a few minutes to look beyond the headline price. Consider questions such as:

    • Does the policy provide the level of cover you need?
    • Are personal belongings included, or can they be added?
    • Is European travel covered if you’re planning to go abroad?
    • Does it offer breakdown assistance that’s suitable for motorhomes?
    • Are modifications and fitted accessories protected?
    • What excess would you need to pay if you made a claim?

    Taking the time to compare what’s included can help you avoid unexpected costs further down the line and give you greater confidence every time you head out on the road.

    At Just Kampers Insurance, we’ve been specialists in motorhome insurance since 1998, so we know exactly how to get you the best deals and the right cover that will keep your pride and joy protected. We understand that a motorhome is more than just a vehicle; it’s your home away from home and the key to countless adventures. That’s why we offer specialist motorhome insurance designed to suit a wide range of vehicles and travel styles.

    Whether you’re buying your very first motorhome or upgrading to a newer model, our flexible policies can help you find the right level of protection for your needs. With cover that’s tailored to the way you travel, you can spend less time worrying about the unexpected and more time planning your next trip.

    Get a quote today or give us a call on 01256 44 45 46 to speak to one of our experts.

    Motorhomes parked up by a lake

    Summary

    Buying your first motorhome is the start of an exciting new chapter. From weekend escapes to longer touring holidays, it’s a fantastic way to explore at your own pace and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

    Taking the time to choose the right insurance is just as important as choosing the right motorhome. By understanding the different levels of cover, considering optional extras and thinking about how you’ll use your vehicle, you can find a policy that gives you confidence every time you set off.

    If you’re looking for specialist cover, Just Kampers Insurance offers a range of motorhome insurance options designed for owners across the UK. Whether you’re buying your first motorhome or upgrading to a new model, our team can help you find a policy that suits the way you travel.

    With the right insurance in place, you can spend less time worrying about the unexpected and more time planning your next adventure.

    What Should I Do and Not Do if I Have an Accident? FAQs

    Do I need to tell my insurer about an accident if I’m not making a claim?

    Yes, you should still notify your insurer about the incident, even if you don’t intend to claim for damage to your own vehicle. Your policy may require you to report incidents which could potentially lead to a claim, particularly if another driver later decides to make a claim against you.
    Reporting the accident promptly also ensures your insurer has a record of your version of events.

    How quickly should I contact Just Kampers Insurance after an accident?

    You should report an accident as soon as reasonably possible. Having your policy number, details of what happened, information about the other people and vehicles involved, photographs and any witness details to hand can help make the process easier. Just Kampers Insurance customers have access to a claims service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    Will I have to pay my excess if the accident wasn’t my fault?

    If you make a claim through your own insurance policy, your policy excess may still be payable initially. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may subsequently be able to recover this from the responsible party.

    Your claims handler can explain what applies to your particular claim and whether your excess may be recoverable.

    Can legal protection help if the accident wasn’t my fault?

    Just Kampers Insurance policies include legal protection, which can provide assistance following a non-fault accident, subject to the policy terms, limits and exclusions.

    This can include help pursuing eligible uninsured losses, such as an excess you have paid, as well as assistance with certain legal expenses, vehicle hire or claims relating to injuries and other losses.

    Will I get a courtesy car while my vehicle is being repaired?

    This will depend on your cover and how your claim is handled. If you make a claim under a comprehensive policy and use an approved repairer, a courtesy car may be available for the duration of the repairs, subject to availability.

    Different arrangements may apply following a non-fault accident, so speak to your claims handler before arranging alternative transport yourself.

    What happens if my campervan or motorhome is written off?

    Your insurer will assess the vehicle and the terms of your policy before determining how the claim will be settled.

    This is particularly important for classic, converted and specialist vehicles, where modifications and the vehicle’s specification can have a significant impact on its value. If your policy includes Agreed Value cover, check your policy documents to understand how this applies to a total-loss claim.

    What if modifications to my campervan are damaged in the accident?

    Make sure you tell your claims handler about damage to modifications and converted parts of the vehicle, rather than documenting only the exterior bodywork.

    Photograph damaged pop-tops, awnings, furniture, fitted equipment and other converted elements where it is safe to do so. Keeping photographs and documentation relating to modifications before an accident can also help demonstrate your vehicle’s specification and condition.

    Should I arrange my own garage to repair the vehicle?

    Speak to your insurer or claims handler before authorising significant repairs. The insurer may need to inspect the vehicle, review photographs or agree repair costs before work begins.

    This can be especially important with classic vehicles, campervans and motorhomes, where specialist components or conversion work may require particular expertise.

    What should I do if the other driver’s insurer contacts me directly?

    Don’t ignore correspondence about the accident, but avoid getting drawn into discussions about liability or agreeing a settlement without speaking to your insurer.

    Just Kampers Insurance advises customers to forward third-party correspondence unanswered so it can be dealt with appropriately.

    What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or leaves the scene?

    Gather as much information as you safely can, including the vehicle registration, make, model and colour, photographs or dashcam footage, and witness details.

    Don’t attempt to chase a vehicle that leaves the scene. Report the incident to the police where required and contact your insurer promptly so they can advise you on the next steps.

    Can I claim for belongings damaged inside my campervan or motorhome?

    Whether damaged belongings are covered will depend on your individual policy and the cover you have selected.

    If items inside your vehicle are damaged in an accident, photograph them and keep any evidence of ownership and value, such as receipts. Don’t dispose of damaged items until you have spoken to your claims handler.

    What happens to my no-claims bonus after an accident?

    The effect on your no-claims bonus will depend on factors including how the claim is recorded and the terms of your policy. Even where you have a protected no-claims bonus, a fault or pending claim may still affect future insurance premiums.

    Check your policy documents or speak to the Just Kampers Insurance team if you’re unsure how a particular claim could affect your policy.

    What information should I have ready when I report an accident?

    It helps to have as much information as possible available, including your policy number, the date and location of the accident, details of the other driver and vehicle, photographs of the scene and damage, witness details, dashcam footage and any police reference number.

    Don’t worry if you don’t have everything immediately. Report the incident promptly, and your claims handler can explain what additional information may be needed.

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    Written by: Jason Sims

    Jason is a Senior Marketing Executive at Just Kampers who is a fully-fledged VW enthusiast, with over 20 years’ experience in keeping Volkswagens old and new on the road, he currently owns a 69 Cal Look Beetle, and enjoys attending VW shows and Camping with friends and family.

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