Camper insurance is its own world — different rules from car insurance, different underwriters, different traps. Get it wrong at quote stage and you can find yourself with a perfectly valid-looking policy that pays out a fraction of what your van is worth.
Specialist insurer vs comparison-site policy
Comparison sites rarely understand camper conversions. Use a specialist: Comfort, Adrian Flux, Caravan Guard, Safeguard, Lifesure. They know the difference between a factory-built VW California and a one-off Crafter conversion — and they'll price the bespoke parts of your van properly.
Agreed value vs market value
Market value pays out what a dealer thinks a similar van is worth on the day. Agreed value pays out what you and the insurer agreed up-front (usually backed by photos and a recent valuation). For anything bespoke, anything over 10 years old, or anything modified, agreed value is worth the extra premium.
Declare every modification
Conversion details. Bike rack. Roof box. Solar panel. Awning. Tow bar. Roof rails. Aftermarket alarm. Every single one. Non-declaration is the most common reason a claim gets refused or settled at a discount.
Mileage limits
Most camper policies cap annual mileage at 5,000–8,000 miles. Going over without telling the insurer can invalidate cover. If you intend a long tour or full-time van life, declare it.
EU and breakdown cover
Standard EU green-card cover ended for new claims rules post-Brexit. Confirm that your policy covers the countries you intend to visit and for how many days. European recovery (CEA, RAC Eurocover) is essential for anything more ambitious than a Channel hop.
Common questions
Does my V5 say 'motor caravan' affect insurance? Yes — V5 classification as 'Motor Caravan' is the cleanest position for camper insurers and often opens better rates. DVLA reclassification rules tightened in 2019, so most newer factory builds are not reclassifiable. Specialist insurers underwrite plenty of vans still on a Panel Van V5 — just declare honestly.
Is European cover included as standard? Usually capped — often 60–90 days/year. Read the schedule, not just the headline.