Caravanning is one of the UK’s most popular past times, and I’m quite sure that you will know someone that owns one. In this article I shall be talking about 3 different types of caravan. Static caravans, motor homes and touring caravans, most importantly though, I shall be guiding you through the often tricky process acquiring insurance, giving hints and tips, and the subtle differences between each type.

The first caravan type I shall have a look at are static caravans. Now the main characteristic of static caravans are that they are that they generally are immobile, grounded in locations for long periods of time (caravan parks). They generally have a lot more items inside as the owner will want to make them a bit more comfortable than a regular caravan. This obviously is a target for burglars as they would know that these caravans are often left unoccupied for long periods of time. Another disadvantage of them being left alone is that they can also be a target for vandalism.

This information is very useful as there are some requirements that insurers will enforce, such as insisting that your static caravan is parked on a supervised and specialist site that has all of the services connected properly (water, gas, electric). They may insist that the caravan is fitted with security devices; this can include locks, alarms and immobilisers. When you leave the caravan unoccupied for the winter they may also require that you fully drain your water and heating systems.

Touring caravans are the type that are towed along by cars and can be transported anywhere. You would have to be aware that because they would be on the road they are of course susceptible to road accidents. Again being a caravan that is parked somewhere there is always the possibility of vandalism and theft, to perhaps prevent this insurers may want to see use of a hitch lock (a device that prevents are caravan from being towed) and wheel clamp. Another area that may be identified because the caravan will be on the road is the age of the driver of the car that is towing it and also the number of approved drivers.

The last type of caravan I shall be looking at are motor homes. Now motor homes are a special case as they cannot just be burgled or vandalised, but actually driven away and stolen. As they can be driven around independently they are especially a cause for concern when it comes to insurance. Insurers may want you to have third party or comprehensive cover for your caravan as a vehicle. Again as a motorised caravan the insurer may insist on you having tracking devices and/or immobilisers installed. Much like touring caravans there may be an issue with the drivers, how many insured drivers there are on the policy, the age of them and also how many times you plan to take the motor home out of the country.


About the author

Michael writes about Caravan Insurance and what to look out for with different types of caravans.