How Much Is Campervan Insurance UK: Average Prices & Tips to Save


If you’re planning to buy a campervan or looking to hire a motorhome, one important question always comes up: How much is campervan insurance in UK? Campervan insurance costs can vary massively depending on:
- what kind of van you drive,
- how often you use it,
- how old you are, and
- whether you own it or hire it for the short term.
Let’s understand all this in detail, average prices, what influences the cost, and the smartest ways to save money on campervan insurance in the UK.
What Is Campervan Insurance?
Campervan insurance is a specific type of motor insurance that covers you while driving and using a campervan or motorhome. It protects against:
- Accidents and collisions
- Theft or attempted theft
- Contents inside the van
- Third-party liabilities
- Fire and vandalism
Unlike car insurance, campervan insurance often includes extras like protection for your personal belongings, awnings, gas bottles, and sometimes even your holiday cancellation costs.
So, How Much Is Campervan Insurance UK?
Let’s get straight to it. On average, campervan insurance in the UK ranges from £250 to £1,200 per year. Here’s a rough breakdown:
Type of Campervan | Average Annual Insurance (Fully Comprehensive) |
Small Converted Van (e.g., VW Transporter) | £250 – £500 |
Medium Campervan (e.g., Ford Transit Camper) | £400 – £700 |
Large Motorhome or Coachbuilt RV | £700 – £1,200+ |
Classic/Vintage Campervan | £400 – £900 |
Hired Motorhome (short-term cover) | £25 – £45 per day |
So if you’re wondering how much is campervan insurance UK, in simple terms, think of it as somewhere between your standard car insurance and a home insurance policy rolled into one.
Prices will rise higher if you drive a new, large, or luxury motorhome. If you’re a younger driver or have points on your licence, expect to pay more, too.
What Affects the Cost of Campervan Insurance?
Several factors influence your premium:
1. Vehicle Type & Value
High-end or custom-built motorhomes cost more to insure. A basic self-converted van will be cheaper than a new £80,000 coachbuilt RV.
2. Driver’s Age & Experience
Insurers see younger drivers as higher risk. If you’re under 25, expect significantly higher quotes, or in some cases, rejection. Experience with driving larger vehicles also plays a role.
3. Storage Location
If you park your campervan in a secure garage or a monitored storage facility, your premium may drop. Leaving it on the street could push it up.
4. Annual Mileage
Using your campervan for occasional holidays (e.g., 3,000–5,000 miles a year) will be cheaper than if you use it daily or travel across Europe regularly.
5. Security Features
Installing a Thatcham-approved alarm, immobiliser, or tracking device can bring the price down. Some insurers offer discounts for dashcams, too.
6. Contents & Modifications
If you’ve added solar panels, bike racks, upgraded interiors, or a pop-top roof, let your insurer know. These increase the vehicle’s value, but may not raise your premium significantly unless unlisted.
Is Insurance Needed for a Hired Motorhome?
Yes, always.
When you’re looking at motorhomes for hire, insurance is legally required. Most hire companies include basic insurance in the rental cost, but that cover often comes with a high excess (anywhere from £1,000 to £2,500).
If you damage the vehicle, even slightly, you’ll be on the hook for that excessive expense. Here are your options:
- Stick with the included insurance and understand the risk.
- Pay for Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) to reduce your liability.
- Use a third-party excess insurance provider for a cheaper daily rate (as low as £5–£10 per day) that covers the excess only.
If you’re hiring a motorhome privately through a peer-to-peer platform (like Camplify), insurance is usually arranged through the platform—but always double-check what’s covered.
What If You’re Buying a Campervan?
If you’re looking at a motorhome for sale, make sure you get a proper quote before sealing the deal. It’s easy to fall in love with a beautiful van, only to discover later that the insurance costs are through the roof.
Also, don’t assume standard car insurance will cover you. It won’t. Campervans often need specialist insurance, even if it’s a van you’ve converted yourself. Some insurance companies to look at include:
- Adrian Flux
- AIB Insurance
- Caravan Guard
- Comfort Insurance
- Shield Total Insurance
These firms understand the quirks of campervans better than general car insurers.
Tips to Save on Campervan Insurance
Here’s how to keep your premium on the lower end:
- Join a Campervan Club: Being a member of groups like the Caravan and Motorhome Club can get you discounts of up to 25% on certain policies.
- Limit Mileage: If you only use your van a few weeks a year, opt for a limited mileage policy; it can slash your premium.
- Add a Named Driver: Sometimes, adding a more experienced driver (like a partner over 35) can lower the premium, especially if you’re under 30.
- Install Extra Security: Tracking systems, wheel clamps, immobilisers, and steering locks can help prevent theft, and reduce costs.
- Pay Annually: Paying your insurance all at once usually costs less than monthly installments, which often include interest or admin fees.
- Compare Campervan-Specific Policies: Don’t just use car insurance comparison sites. Use ones focused on campervans or motorhomes. You’ll get better deals and coverage tailored to how you actually use the vehicle.
What’s the Difference Between Campervan and Motorhome Insurance?
People commonly mix up the two words, but they are not the same when it comes to insurance.
- A campervan is usually smaller than a motorhome. It can be a converted van or a tiny vehicle made in a factory.
- A motorhome is bigger and usually designed like a coach. It has all the living space you need, like bathrooms, showers, and fixed bedrooms.
Because motorhomes are big and valuable, their insurance costs extra. But both need specialist cover, not just car insurance with a ticked box.
Final Thoughts
So, how much is campervan insurance UK? The answer really depends on what you’re driving, how you use it, and where it’s kept. But you can expect anywhere from £250 to £1,200 a year, with short-term hires costing around £30–£40 a day including basic cover.
The good news? You’ve got options. And with the right strategy, whether it’s joining a club or improving your security, you can bring that cost down.
Whether you’re renting a weekend getaway van or buying your dream motorhome for sale, don’t overlook insurance. It might not be the most exciting part of the journey, but it’s what keeps the adventure going without unwanted surprises.
FAQs
How much is campervan insurance UK on a monthly basis?
Depending on the type of campervan, your driving history, and the level of coverage, it might cost between £25 and £100 a month if you pay monthly. Interest is frequently included in monthly payments, so keep that in mind.
Do you need separate insurance for a hired motorhome?
Most rental businesses include basic insurance, but you should get extra coverage. For private hires, make sure the insurance is real and covers the whole rental term.
Does converting a van into a campervan affect insurance?
Yes. You will need to tell the DVLA and get insurance for it as a campervan instead of a panel van. Specialist insurers are better at handling conversions.
Is campervan insurance cheaper than motorhome insurance?
Yes, most of the time. Campervans are smaller and less expensive, thus they cost less to insure than bigger, coachbuilt RVs.
Can I drive a campervan on my standard UK driving licence?
If the campervan is under 3.5 tonnes, yes. For larger motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes, you may need a C1 entitlement on your licence—especially if you passed your test after 1997.