We were having dinner last night when the topic of camper van insurance came up (when doesn’t it?). It reminded us that when we first bought our vans, we didn’t really lean into what the actual value of our rig was, what it’s insured value was, and if we were comfortable that the insurance company understood that KBB value means nothing with a fully kitted out van or overlander.
Below are a few key things to consider when getting insurance for that new van or overlander of yours.
1. Valuing Customizations: The Added Investment
Custom Interior: If you’ve invested in custom interior work, such as converting your Sprinter van into a mobile home or office, standard insurance policies might not adequately cover the added value. Ensure your insurer assesses and accounts for these modifications in your policy.
Special Equipment: Any specialized equipment or accessories you’ve added to your van, such as racks, awnings, or solar panels, should be documented and included in your coverage. These items significantly impact your van’s value and functionality.
2. Usage Variability: From Weekend Getaways to Full-Time Living
Full-Time Living: If you’ve turned your van into a full-time living space, your insurance needs differ from someone using it solely for weekend getaways. Full-time living requires additional coverage for personal belongings, liability, and potentially even extended coverage for property parked in different locations.
3. Nomadic Lifestyle: Frequent Travel
Mileage: Sprinter vans customized for a nomadic lifestyle often accumulate more mileage than standard vehicles. Ensure your policy accounts for this increased use without incurring higher premiums.
International Travel: If you’re planning to take your rig across international borders, verify that your insurance coverage extends to the countries you intend to visit.
4. Conversion Quality: DIY vs. Professional Conversion
Professional Conversion: Vans that have undergone professional conversions may have higher values due to the quality and craftsmanship of the work. Ensure your insurance policy reflects the enhanced value and unique features of a professionally converted van.
DIY Conversion: DIY conversions are a labor of love, but they also require special consideration. Be prepared to provide details about the materials and techniques used in your conversion, as these factors may influence your coverage.
5. Storage and Security: Protecting Your Investment
Storage Location: Where you park and store your customized Sprinter van matters. If you store it in a secure garage or facility when not in use, your insurance provider may offer discounts or consider it a lower risk.
Anti-Theft Measures: Investing in anti-theft devices, such as alarms, immobilizers, or GPS trackers, can not only protect your van but also lead to lower insurance premiums.
6. Documentation: Detailed Records Are Key
Record-Keeping: Keep detailed records of your van’s customizations, maintenance, and upgrades. This documentation can expedite the claims process and ensure you receive the appropriate compensation in the event of a loss.
7. Appraisal: Professional Assessment
Professional Appraisal: For highly customized Sprinter vans with substantial value, consider obtaining a professional appraisal. This document can help establish the van’s worth and provide valuable evidence for insurance purposes.
We also liked this blog post by Bearfoot Theory regarding insurance. It covers many of the same items, but the author goes into more details about her specific experiences.
As far as what insurance company to consider, you can go with Roamly (see their FAQ here) who specializes in RVs, or others like Progressive, among others, that can take into account your unique build and use. Just be sure to dive into the details that we have highlighted to ensure you understand what you are getting.