Caravan (Trailer) Insurance: everything you need to know before taking it out
Are you getting ready to take your caravan out for the first time or do you want to make sure you have everything in order? You may not know it, but not all caravans are covered by car insurance. And if you ever have an accident on the road, not having the right insurance can be very expensive.
In this article we explain in a clear way what you need to know about the caravan (trailer) insuranceWhen is it compulsory, what cover is recommended and how does it differ from motorhome insurance? If you have any doubts, read on, this is of interest to you.
Is it compulsory to take out insurance for a towed caravan?
It depends on the type of caravan you have. If your caravan it weighs less than 750 kg of MAW (maximum permissible weight)The vehicle does not need its own number plate and can be covered by the insurance of the vehicle towing it. However, it is important to check whether your policy includes this cover.
But if your caravan weighs more than 750 kgThe regulations change: it needs its own number plate and therefore, independent insurance. This insurance covers any damage you may cause to third parties while you are on the road.
In any case, even if your caravan is light, it is advisable to have a specific policy to be really protected in any situation.
Protect your caravan or trailer and travel with peace of mind.
Request information about your caravan (trailer) insurance and avoid surprises on the road or when parking.
What basic coverages are included in a caravan insurance policy?
The compulsory insurance must cover at least the Civil Liability (CR)both compulsory and voluntary. This means that if an accident occurs and you cause damage to others, your insurance will take care of the consequences.
It is also common for these policies to include:
- Legal defence and claims for damages.
- Roadside assistance This is particularly useful if the caravan breaks down or is immobilised.
These are the essential guarantees, but they are not the only ones. There are many more options so you can extend your protection according to your type of trip or caravan.
Additional guarantees you can take out
In addition to the basic coverage, you can include other guarantees that give you greater peace of mind during your getaways:
- Own damage in the event of an accident.
- TheftThe caravan and its contents.
- Firewhether partial or total.
- Breakage of windows or skylights.
- Coverage of accessories and household goodsvery useful if you carry interior equipment.
Different insurers offer different combinations and conditions, so ideally you should contact an advisor to find out which options are best suited to your situation.
What is the difference between motorhome insurance and trailer insurance?
The main difference lies in the type of vehicle:
- The motorhome is a vehicle with a motor, so its insurance is considered similar to that of a car or van. It usually includes coverage such as glass, mechanical assistance or even civil liability for the driver.
- The towed caravanIt does not, however, have an engine. It is hitched to another vehicle and its insurance focuses on protecting the structure, contents and damage to third parties.
This difference influences both the type of policy and the guarantees available. It is therefore important not to confuse the two, especially if you are considering changing your vehicle or need advice on choosing the right insurance.
Can I take out light caravan insurance on a daily basis?
Some people are looking for a temporary insurance for weekend getaways or one-off holidays. In the case of lightweight caravans, this can be an attractive option. However, not all companies offer per diem insurance for trailersand when they do, they often have specific conditions attached to them.
To find out if this option is viable in your case, it is best to speak directly with a professional who can guide you on the alternatives available for your caravan and the use you are going to make of it.
What other aspects should you take into account?
When you hire a caravan (trailer) insurancealways check the territorial scope of the policy. Some coverage, such as roadside assistance, may be limited to Spain or extended to other European countries. It is also important to check whether the guarantees cover both circulation and stay.
And don't forget that not all insurers offer the same coverage. Some focus on the basics, while others allow you to tailor the policy to suit you. The more specific your caravan and your needs are, the more important it is to have a well-designed insurance policy.