Touring caravan insurance is an essential purchase for anyone that intends to take their caravan on public roads. It’s there to provide valuable financial backup in the event of an accident or any kind of damage occurring, and whilst some car insurance policies will include this level of cover it’s often wise to go for a separate policy if you want complete peace of mind.
What should be included in a policy?
There are always different levels of cover to choose from depending on your needs, ranging from basic third party protection to fully-comprehensive cover that ensures you’re ready for anything. The type of policy and the added extras that you’re looking for will often come down to a combination of budget and personal circumstances, but the following will always be worth looking for in any kind of policy:
• New for old cover.
• Breakdown assistance.
• European cover.
• Accidental damage cover.
• Windscreen protection.
• Legal and medical expenses cover.
• Storm damage protection.
• Cover for alternative accommodation.
• Public liability.
• Contents and personal effects cover.
• 24-hour claims lines.
• “All risks” protection (including fire, theft, accidental damage, storm and flood cover).
These are just a few things worth thinking about when searching for your policy, but always remember that different caravan insurance companies will be able to offer different levels of protection accordingly. That’s what makes research so important, and if you spend the time to look you’ll have a much better chance of finding the policy that suits your needs.
How to find your perfect quote
In order to find the perfect quote you’re going to need to scour the market thoroughly. Doing so gives you a far better chance of finding the policy that’s suitable, and never be tempted to save time by opting for the first quote you come across – this will invariably mean you’re left with a policy that’s inadequate, so if you want complete peace of mind make sure to spend the time to look.
This needn’t be that time-consuming though, because if you head online and seek specialist price comparison sites you’ll be able to find the perfect quote before you know it. Comparing the options is key and will ensure you’re left with a quote that gives you the perfect level of cover at a price you can afford, and if you make sure to carefully look at the policy features and price of each quote you’re bound to make the right decision.
There are a number of things you’ll need to bear in mind when searching for your policy, however. The first one is to be aware that your postcode will often affect the quote you’re given, with certain areas being deemed to be more of an insurance risk than others. You’ll also have to provide totally accurate information to ensure the validity of any subsequent claims, and always remember to check the small print of your policy so you don’t get any nasty shocks – exclusions and limitations will always be apparent, so it’s essential to know exactly what’s covered before you head off on your holiday.
Essential tips to reduce your premiums
Once you’ve done adequate research you’ll have a much better idea of the options available to you, but don’t think you have to spend a fortune to get a policy that meets your needs. Comparing the options is only the beginning – there are plenty of things you can do to reduce your premiums even further to result in extra cash in your pocket, and here are just a few you might like to try:
• Invest in as many security features as you can. Basic security precautions (e.g. hitch locks and having securely locked doors and windows) are essential and failing to have them could nullify your claim, but it’s often best to go for more advanced options such as burglar alarms and even satellite tracking devices. Not only will doing so ensure the safety of your caravan, but many insurance firms will be able to give you great discounts as you’ll be less likely to make a claim.
• Store your caravan securely when not in use, preferably in a locked garage or storage area. Again, this could result in fantastic discounts as theft and vandalism will be less likely.
• Become a member of a recognised caravan club. This many not seem that important initially, but it can actually be a great way to reduce your premiums. By signing up to one of these clubs you’re showing any potential insurance firm that you’re a responsible caravan owner who takes their obligations seriously, and you’ll often be given discounts accordingly.
• Increase your excess. Excess options aren’t always fixed and many insurance firms will let you choose your own level in order to reduce your premiums, and as long as you keep it realistic it can be a great way to keep costs down.
These options all require advance consideration if they’re going to be worthwhile, but spending the time to properly arrange everything can be one of the best things you do. Of course, there are plenty of simpler things you might like to try as well – haggling, for example, or simply keeping an eye out for any additional discounts – and if you bear in mind all the options you’ll be able to get the policy you’re looking for at a price to suit.
Overview
So, always remember the importance of investing in touring caravan insurance if you want complete peace of mind when you’re on the road. Not only is it a legal requirement to have your vehicle insured but it also makes sound financial sense, particularly when you consider the cost of your caravan and of the possessions contained within it, and with the right policy behind you you’ll find you don’t have a thing to worry about. Spending the time to search can make all the difference and can ensure you find the level of cover you need without spending a fortune, so head online and you’ll soon have the perfect policy that will leave you free to enjoy your holiday.
photo credit: pedrosimoes7