5 Tips to Consider when Purchasing RV Insurance

You’ve finally decided to buy an RV and go on the adventure you and your family have always dreamed of. Now what? There’s a lot of fun stuff to start thinking about. Where are you going to go? How are you going to decorate your RV? What kind of super boss grill are you going to get? And then there is some other not-so-fun stuff to start thinking about, like RV insurance. It’s not quite the same as auto insurance, so when that time does come, you want to discuss your options with a knowledgeable insurance agent who can help you choose what is best for you and your RV. Here are five tips when shopping for RV insurance: 

1. You don’t have to get the dealer’s RV insurance

When you purchase an RV from a dealer, they will oftentimes try to sell you their insurance or insurance that they are affiliated with through a third-party. You do not have to purchase insurance through the dealer but you do need insurance before you take your RV home. Do your research ahead of time and find the right insurance so that you aren’t pressured into a policy that doesn’t fit you or your needs. 

2. Total loss replacement versus actual cash value 

Make sure to go over with your insurance agent whether your coverage is for total loss replacement or actual cash value. Total loss replacement will cover your RV for what the purchase price was, while cash value will cover your RV for what it is at current market value. Each comes with their advantages and disadvantages. 

3. Consider how you will be using your RV insurance

Whether you are pulling your RV with a hitch or storing it at a seasonal campground will have an affect on your insurance. Discussing with your insurance agent how you will be using your RV will help determine what else needs to be insured and how. 

4. You may need insurance for related expenses

…and on that note, you may need insurance for related expenses to owning an RV, like liability insurance. Emergency coverage may help cover hotels and other fees if you are traveling with your RV and something happens to it. Discuss all of your options with your insurance agent to guarantee every base is covered and you aren’t left hundreds of miles from home with little to no coverage. 

5. Keep good records

Actually, keep GREAT records. The RV lifestyle comes with a host of great memories, adventures and excitement to explore. It could also come with a headache if something happens on the road or at a campground without proper documentation. Make sure you know who is in and out of your RV, what repairs have been done and by whom, as well as the condition of your RV both before and after you travel with it. These factors will be crucial in proper insurance coverage. 

The adventure of a lifetime is waiting for you and your family – stop dreaming and start RVing. At Jensen-Sundquist, we are excited for you! Give us a call so we can discuss all of your RV insurance options.