insurance claims on travel trailers

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The Ins and Outs of Travel Trailer Insurance

Published on January 5th, 2024 by Peggy Dent This post was updated on August 27th, 2024

Obtaining travel trailer insurance may seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these tips and you can be certain to get the best insurance for your new (or used) towable.

Towed recreational vehicles are defined as an RV by the insurance industry but are generally not covered by the insurance that covers the tow vehicle. Therefore, you need to purchase a separate policy to cover your travel trailer, fifth-wheel, toy hauler, pop-up, or truck camper. 

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Travel trailers are a separate category of rv.

There are separate categories for motorized RVs and towed or carried RVs. Since your trailer or truck camper is not self-propelled like a motorhome it falls into its own unique category for insurance.  

Consequently, if you don’t purchase a separate policy for your towed RV, most of the potential damage or loss will not be covered. The exception is that the liability coverage on your tow vehicle will extend to the trailer as long as it is hooked up and being towed when the damage occurred. But liability insurance only covers damage or injuries suffered by other people when your insured vehicle has caused the damage or injury.  

For example, if your 40-foot fifth-wheel sideswipes another car on a tight corner causing extensive damage, their loss is covered by your auto liability coverage. However, the damage to your fifth-wheel is not covered because your loss would be classified as collision damage. Collision and comprehensive coverages in your auto policy do not extend to a towed vehicle.

When Wouldn’t You Need Travel Trailer Insurance?

It’s wonderful that the liability coverage on your auto policy extends to a towed RV. If your rig is very old, or of little value, that may be all the coverage you need. On the other hand, your RV may represent a large investment. It might also be stocked with additional valuable equipment and personal property. If you live full-time in your RV then all your physical assets might also be in your RV. In these cases simple liability coverage will not sufficiently protect your investment and your belongings.

Travel Trailer Insurance Cost Estimate and Variable s

If you need more than your auto liability coverage you will need to pay for additional travel trailer insurance. There are many types of insurance and deductibles that will ultimately determine how much this insurance will cost. The cost is linked to the value of the RV, the amount of coverage you want, and your credit score. Other factors that will affect the cost of travel trailer insurance are the company that underwrites the policy and if you have additional policies through the same provider.

Use Online Price Quote s for Research

Obtain a quote online before calling your insurance agent. Sites like RVer Insurance Exchange can offer a free quote in just minutes. That way, you’ll know what types of travel trailer insurance is available. You’ll learn what questions the agents will ask, and won’t feel pressured to include coverage you don’t really need. For example, the agent may encourage you to add roadside assistance to your travel trailer policy. But if you already have that in your auto policy there’s no need to pay for it twice. Use that portion of the premium to pay for other insurance coverage. Other types of coverage are total loss replacement coverage and emergency expense coverage. 

Emergency Expense Coverage

Your auto and homeowner’s policies probably do not include emergency expense insurance. This insurance covers the out-of-pocket costs for hotel and meal expenses or RV rental costs that you incur if you’re away from home and your travel trailer is in the shop. If this special coverage is not available through your auto or homeowner’s policies, include it in your trailer insurance.  

Truck Campers

One final note about RV insurance applies to truck campers. These RVs are different from all other categories of RVs and unlike with travel trailer insurance, liability and bodily injury coverage is not part of a typical truck camper policy. That’s because it is included in the policy that covers the truck. Therefore, you should confirm that your truck policy limits are high enough to adequately cover losses, damage, and bodily injuries.  

Just because your travel trailer is hooked to your truck, car, or SUV does not mean the coverage you already have on your auto extends to your towed RV. As far as the insurance industry is concerned, your towed RV is a unique stand-alone asset, and should be insured.

There is one final issue worth pointing out. Insurance is different from an extended warranty . To really have peace of mind, you need both. The problems you might encounter with towed RV will either fall under the coverage of one or the other type of coverage. If you wreck your trailer, it’s vandalized, or critical parts are stolen, that would be covered by your insurance. However, if the generator quits working or the slideout will not retract correctly, that will be covered by an extended warranty. Each type of protection is specific to certain types of damage, or dysfunction, and to be fully protected you need both.

Peggy Dent stands out as an acclaimed author and pivotal voice in the RV community, merging her academic prowess with a genuine enthusiasm for RV travel. Her full-time RVing experience and insightful contributions to premier RV publications like Camper Report, RV LIFE, and RV Destinations highlight her as a cornerstone of RV journalism. Peggy’s best-selling book, “ Print Your Success ,” showcases her versatile talent, further establishing her as a beacon for RV enthusiasts seeking compelling narratives and invaluable advice.

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What is RV Insurance?

RV Insurance includes the protection you need-designed with travel and leisure in mind.

Recreational Vehicle (RV) insurance is a specialized insurance policy designed to protect owners of camper vans, trailers, and other recreational vehicles. It provides coverage for bodily injuries and damage to your vehicle or property.

RV insurance coverage varies based on:

• The coverages you need
• How you use your RV
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Do I need RV insurance?

The right RV insurance for you depends on your vehicle type, coverage needs, and state laws.

What types of RVs can I insure?

With GEICO, you can get RV insurance for a variety of recreational vehicles, trailers, and haulers.

Motorized Recreational Vehicles

• Class A, B, and C Motorhomes
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Travel Trailers, Campers

• Conventional and 5th Wheel Travel Trailers
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Toy Haulers

• ATV, Dirt Bike, and Motorcycle Haulers

How does RV insurance work?

RV Insurance is tailored to the unique needs of RV owners.

RV insurance works similarly to other types of auto insurance, but coverages are tailored specifically to the needs of RV owners. Owners pay a premium to an insurance company in exchange for coverage that protects their recreational vehicle from various risks. This coverage typically includes liability protection, which covers bodily injury and property damage to others in case of an accident for which you are liable.

Additionally, RV insurance may include collision coverage to repair or replace your RV in the event of an accident, comprehensive coverage for non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters, and optional coverages like roadside assistance and personal property coverage. In the event of a claim, you would typically pay a deductible before the insurance company covers the remaining costs up to the policy's limits.

How much does RV insurance cost?

GEICO offers a variety of discounts you may qualify for to maximize your savings.

RV insurance premiums are influenced by various factors, ranging from state insurance requirements to individual circumstances. Understanding these factors is crucial for striking a balance between securing optimal protection and finding affordable coverage.

Your driving history - including past accidents and traffic violations is taken into consideration by insurers. The condition of your RV also impacts cost; newer, well-maintained vehicles may have lower premiums compared to older models or a history of damages.

Additionally, the type and extent of coverage you select greatly influences RV insurance premiums. Opting for higher liability limits provides added protection but typically results in higher premiums, whereas choosing a higher deductible can lower your insurance costs but may require you to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim.

Maximize your RV insurance savings with special discounts offered by GEICO (varies by state):

• Good Driver discount
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What does RV insurance cover?

From total loss replacement to emergency expenses and roadside assistance, GEICO has you covered.

GEICO offers a range of coverages such as total loss replacement and vacation liability to protect your RV and provide you with peace of mind while on the road. These coverages are designed to address various risks and potential losses that RV owners may face. For more information on the types of coverage available, check out our RV coverages page.

It's important to review your policy carefully, as RV insurance coverages and coverage amounts vary by policy and provider.

Customize your GEICO RV insurance policy to include a variety of coverages

• Total loss replacement
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• Comprehensive & collision
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RV Insurance FAQs

Get the answers you need about GEICO RV Insurance.

• How do I get the best RV insurance rates? You can customize your RV insurance policy and find a few ways to possibly lower your insurance rates. You should consider whether you're storing your RV in a safe and secure location, decide how you will use your RV, change your insurance deductible, and more.
• How can I avoid common RV problems? You can't predict when a problem will occur but you can help avoid them with simple maintenance. You should check your tires regularly, keep tires properly inflated, replace the old sealant around all windows, and constantly maintain your RV. To protect yourself financially, you should also have RV insurance. For more info, check out our common RV problems page .
• What RV type is right for me? Deciding which RV is right for you comes down to personal preference and needs. Consider factors like whether you need a self-propelled or towed RV, the amount of weight your vehicle can safely tow, and the amount of RV space you need. For more guidance on selecting the right RV type, be sure to check out our help page .
• Where can I learn more about RV safety? To learn more about RV safety, you can check out our safety tips for RVs . These tips provide valuable information and guidelines to make a safe and enjoyable RV experience more likely. By following these tips, you can enhance your knowledge and take precautions designed to help financially safeguard your trailer itself and also help cover you financially in case of accidents or liability issues. So, even if it's not compulsory, it's a wise choice for protecting your investment and ensuring your peace of mind while you're on the road.
• What's the difference between motorhome and travel trailer insurance? Motorhome insurance is tailored for vehicles you can drive, such as Class A, B, or C motorhomes. It provides coverages for both the RV and liability that might arise while you're on the move. On the other hand, travel trailer insurance is designed for non-motorized trailers towed behind your vehicle. It provides coverage for the trailer itself and may also include liability protection at your campsite. So, the main distinction lies in whether your RV has its own engine or not, but both types of insurance could help ensure you're well-covered during your adventures.

Please note:

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.

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What’s your favorite destination when you hitch a travel trailer to your SUV? You may enjoy camping in the mountains or relaxing by the ocean. Maybe you stop anywhere that catches your interest. You might even use your travel trailer as a seasonal or permanent home.

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Specialized insurance coverage

While you tow a travel trailer with your car — and may have the comforts of home — that doesn’t mean your auto or home policies provide the coverage you want. Why not talk to a Farmers ®  agent about specialized insurance designed for your priorities and lifestyle?

You may be able to get insurance to help with direct and accidental physical damage to your travel trailer, including permanently installed accessories such as: awnings, antennas and satellite dishes. The range of covered hazards includes — but isn’t limited to — collisions, lightning, flooding, landslides, wind and hail, wild animals, fire and smoke, vandalism and theft, and trees and overhangs.

Here are some situations in which Farmers travel trailer insurance may help you:

A tree damages your trailer

You turn too sharply while maneuvering through a wooded campground — scraping the side of your trailer against a stout oak tree.

There’s a fire in your kitchenette

Your refrigerator’s compressor overheats and starts a fire. You’re able to put it out with an extinguisher, but the kitchenette is ruined.

Your awning is lost in a windstorm

A powerful windstorm rips your fabric awning away from the trailer — blowing it into a nearby lake.

Your trailer is vandalized

You go to pick up your trailer at an outdoor storage lot only to discover a local graffiti artist has used it for practice.

You can also customize your coverage with popular options including:

• Total Loss Replacement coverage can help if your new travel trailer is declared a total loss within the first five years — providing a brand new replacement of a similar kind and quality.
• Emergency Expense coverage can help with the cost of lodging or travel if your travel trailer is damaged more than 50 miles from home.
• Campsite/Vacation Liability coverage can help when a travel trailer is parked and being used as a dwelling or for recreational purposes.
• Full-Timer Liability coverage provides personal liability protection when your travel trailer is parked and used as a dwelling or for recreational purposes.
• Replacement Cost coverage for damaged or stolen personal belongings.
• TraveLine ® Towing and Roadside Assistance includes towing, tire changes, fluid delivery and locksmith services.

Farmers works to build strong customer relationships

Farmers has spent 90 years putting customers first. Are you shopping for coverage, or do you have a question about your policy? Maybe you’re ready to get a travel trailer insurance quote. Be sure to let a Farmers agent deliver personalized service and support.

You’ll experience a similar level of care from our knowledgeable claims representatives, who will provide assistance as quickly as possible.

To learn how Farmers can help you protect your travel trailer, call an agent today.

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There's more to watch out for besides bears and coyotes when you're in the great outdoors, like faulty trailer hitches and reckless drivers. That's why campers turn to us to protect their home away from home. Get a quote today and see how affordable travel trailer insurance can be.

Do you need travel trailer insurance?

Insuring your camping or travel trailer isn't mandated by law, but your lender may require you to get comprehensive and collision coverage if you financed the purchase. In any case, insuring your trailer is a good idea to protect your investment. Plus, you can get coverage for your personal belongings, providing extra protection from travel trailer/RV theft and accidents.

What are the requirements for travel trailer insurance?

Your towing vehicle’s liability insurance coverage should help in the event your trailer causes damage to another vehicle. However, your auto insurance alone won't help you pay to repair or replace your trailer if it's damaged or totaled. When you quote travel trailer insurance, you can select coverages that'll cover those expenses and more, including the cost to replace any belongings that are damaged or stolen from your trailer. Learn more about liability coverage for RVs .

Is a trailer covered under homeowners insurance?

Some homeowners insurance policies may cover the possessions you keep in your camping trailer, but they do not cover the trailer itself. A specialized RV insurance policy can help not only protect your assets, but also fill the gap between what auto and homeowners insurance typically cover.

How much does travel trailer insurance cost?

The total annual cost of your travel trailer insurance policy will depend on the number and type of coverages you select during the quoting process, as well as the RV insurance discounts you qualify for. Don't worry, we'll automatically apply every discount you're eligible for as you go. Start your travel trailer insurance quote today and get a rate that works for your budget.

Learn more about the cost of RV insurance .

What does travel trailer insurance cover?

Travel trailer insurance can cover a wide range of scenarios, including someone injuring themselves on your camp site. What your individual policy covers is up to you, so just choose the options that fit your road-tripping lifestyle.

Comprehensive and collision

With both comprehensive and collision coverage, your camper is covered for damages that are both outside of your control and within your control. For example, comprehensive will help you pay to repair your trailer if a tree branch falls on it. Collision will help you pay for damage that results from a road accident, whether you're at fault or not. In either case, a deductible applies. Learn more about RV comprehensive and collision coverage .

Full-timer's liability

If you use your trailer as a permanent residence, full time RV insurance with liability coverage can safeguard your finances in case someone injures themselves in your trailer or on your camp site. You can choose a specific coverage limit when you get a quote for your travel trailer insurance policy.

Total loss replacement

If your travel trailer is totaled due to a covered loss, we'll pay for a brand new one of the same model year or later, as well as the same trim level or better. You can also decide not to replace your trailer, in which case we'll reimburse you for its original purchase price. If your trailer is older than 5 years, you'll be given the amount specified on your policy’s declarations page. In both scenarios, a deductible applies.

Learn more about all of the RV insurance coverages for travel trailer insurance. Looking at other types of RVs? We offer insurance class A motorhome insurance and fifth wheel insurance too.

How to get a quote for travel trailer insurance

To find the best travel trailer insurance for you, we just need to ask a few basic questions about your camper, including:

What is the make & model?

This will give us an idea of how big your trailer is and what type of RV it is, which allows us to provide a more accurate quote.

Where do you keep the trailer?

We insure travel trailers that are kept at the campground year-round. Keep in mind that if you keep your trailer on a permanent foundation, you won't be able to get an RV insurance policy. Rather, you may instead be eligible for a manufactured home policy .

What is its current value?

This will impact the cost of your policy. For brand new trailers, keep your bill of sale handy because we may ask for the amount of tax and title fees.

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