This article was published on 23 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.
Thinking of heading off on your next Great British getaway? Before you hitch up and hit the open road, ensuring your touring caravan is properly protected is the first step to a stress-free trip.
With so many providers offering different levels of cover, finding the right policy can be a challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time owner, this guide will help you choose the best touring caravan insurance for your specific needs.
Key features of touring caravan insurance
Every caravanner has different priorities. Some may want total peace of mind for long road trips, while others focus on security while the van is in storage during the winter.
Here are the most common features to look for:
1. Theft and security
This covers you if your caravan is stolen or damaged during an attempted theft. It usually includes cover for contents and equipment kept inside. Since caravan theft remains a concern in the UK, even with robust security measures, having this as a cornerstone of your policy is essential.
2. Vandalism and malicious damage
Unfortunately, intentional damage caused by third parties, such as broken windows, slashed tyres, or graffiti, can happen. While frustrating, having this included ensures you aren’t out of pocket for someone else’s bad behaviour.
3. Accidental damage
Whether it’s reversing into a gatepost, hitting a low branch, or clipping a kerb while towing, accidental damage is one of the most common reasons for touring caravan claims. Most policies also cover accidents while the caravan is pitched or in storage, such as a falling branch or damage to the awning during a tricky setup.
4. Extreme weather and storms
While we might joke about the British weather, storms, floods, and high winds can cause serious damage to a caravan’s lightweight structure. If you enjoy coastal pitches, storm cover should be high on your checklist.
5. Public liability
Public liability insurance is vital. It covers legal costs and compensation if your caravan causes injury to someone else or damages their property (for example, if it uncouples and rolls into another vehicle). Note that your car insurance usually won’t cover the caravan’s liability while it is detached or pitched.
6. Contents and awnings
“Contents” refers to your personal belongings, like TVs, clothes, and kitchenware. Many policies also extend this to your awning, gas bottles, and outdoor furniture. Always check the total “sum insured” to make sure it covers the full cost of replacing everything inside.
7. Emergency recovery and accommodation
If your caravan suffers a mechanical failure or is damaged mid-trip:
- Recovery: Specialist recovery to get your van to a repairer or back home.
- Alternative accommodation: Financial help for a hotel or B&B stay if your caravan becomes uninhabitable during your holiday.
8. Fire
Protects against damage caused by accidental fires, electrical faults, or issues with gas appliances.
New-for-Old vs Market Value
When you take out a policy, you’ll usually have to choose how your caravan is valued in the event of a total loss (theft or a “write-off”):
- New-for-Old: If your caravan is stolen or destroyed, the insurer replaces it with a brand-new equivalent model. This is usually only available for caravans under a certain age (e.g., up to 5 or 10 years old).
- Market Value: The insurer pays out what the caravan was worth at the time of the incident, taking wear and tear into account. This often results in lower premiums, but a smaller payout.
Your touring caravan insurance checklist
Before you sign on the dotted line, run through these quick questions to ensure there are no nasty surprises:
- Storage requirements: Does the policy require the caravan to be kept at a CaSSOA-registered site or behind locked gates at home?
- Security devices: Are you mandated to use specific hardware, such as a wheel clamp, hitch lock, or tracker?
- Exclusions: Does the policy exclude common issues like vermin damage, “wear and tear”, or cosmetic bubbling?
- European cover: If you’re planning a trip to France or Spain, is cover included as standard, or do you need an add-on? Check the limit on the number of days allowed abroad.
- The excess: Is the voluntary and compulsory excess affordable? A lower premium often means a much higher excess if you need to claim.
- Friends and family: Are other people covered to tow and use the caravan, or is the cover restricted to you alone?
Always check independent reviews for an insurer’s claims process. A cheap policy is only “good” if the company is helpful and fair when things actually go wrong.
Looking for Touring Caravan Insurance?
Police Mutual are pleased to introduce Compass Insurance who are a specialist provider of holiday caravan and residential park home insurance, with over 45 years’ experience, so they can help you find the right cover for you.
Compass Insurance is part of the Bspoke Insurance Group Ltd, which also includes Police Mutual, so you know you’re in safe hands.