Insuring Your Caravan, Motorhome, and Home for Peace of Mind on the Road
As more Australians embrace the freedom of caravanning and motorhome adventures, it’s essential to have the right insurance in place—not only for your vehicle but also for your home while you’re away.
Types of Caravan Insurance
If you own a caravan, motorhome, or recreational vehicle, you can choose between:
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Comprehensive mobile cover: Protects your caravan while traveling anywhere in Australia.
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On-site insurance: Covers your caravan when parked at a nominated site.
These policies generally cover theft, accidental damage, natural disasters (like storms, hail, or floods), and liability for legal expenses or compensation if you’re at fault in an accident causing injury or property damage. Note that your standard Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance doesn’t cover these risks.
Don’t Forget Your Home Insurance
Planning a long trip? Check with your insurer to confirm that your permanent home remains insured while you’re away. Some policies may not cover properties left unoccupied for extended periods (often more than two months).
Choosing the Right Coverage and Policy Value
Before buying caravan insurance, think about how and where you’ll use your caravan, and know its value.
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For newer caravans, a new-for-old replacement policy might be ideal, ensuring you can replace your caravan if it’s damaged beyond repair.
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For older caravans, research market values—check online listings for similar models—and discuss coverage options with your insurer to get the best fit.
Additional Coverage Considerations
Caravan insurance blends elements of travel, motor vehicle, and home contents insurance. Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Make sure your motor vehicle insurance is up to date before hitting the road. Remember, CTP only covers injury claims and doesn’t pay for vehicle damage or property damage.
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Ask about multi-policy discounts if you bundle your caravan insurance with other policies from the same provider.
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Confirm that your caravan’s contents—like electrical equipment, bedding, and clothing—are included in your coverage. Also, check if attached annexes or awnings are protected.
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Consider adding domestic travel insurance, which can cover emergency accommodation and possibly vehicle replacement if your caravan breaks down or requires extensive repairs.
Having the right insurance means you can explore the open road with confidence, knowing your caravan, vehicle, and home are protected.
