RV Insurance
Call Us: 603-766-3733
An RV sitting in your driveway represents something most standard insurance policies weren't designed to protect. It's part vehicle, part home, and sometimes part office. That blend of uses creates coverage gaps that catch owners off guard, usually right after something expensive goes wrong. Whether you own a 45-foot diesel pusher or a lightweight pop-up camper, the insurance protecting it needs to match both the asset's value and how you actually use it. This guide to RV insurance covers every class of motorhome, travel trailers, and the unique world of full-timer policies, so you can make informed decisions instead of hoping for the best. The recreational vehicle insurance market was
valued at USD 5.6 billion in 2024 and continues to grow as more Americans hit the road. That growth means more options for consumers, but also more complexity. Getting this right matters.
RV insurance shares DNA with auto insurance, but the similarities end quickly. Because RVs function as both transportation and living space, the policies protecting them need to address risks that a standard auto policy simply ignores: think burst water lines, awning damage from wind, or a guest slipping on your entry steps at a campground. The national average for RV insurance runs around $1,500 per year, or roughly $125 per month, though your actual cost will swing wildly based on the type of RV, how you use it, and where you store it.
Liability, Collision, and Comprehensive Essentials
Every RV policy starts with the same three pillars you'd find in auto insurance. Liability covers damage you cause to other people or their property. Collision pays to repair your RV after an accident regardless of fault. Comprehensive handles the non-collision events: theft, hail, fire, falling trees, and vandalism.
Here's where RV policies diverge. Many include coverage for personal belongings inside the unit, attached accessories like satellite dishes and awnings, and even emergency expenses if your RV becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss. A family stranded 600 miles from home after a kitchen fire needs hotel rooms and meals, and a good RV policy covers that.
The Difference Between Auto Insurance and Specialized RV Policies
Your auto insurer might offer to add your RV to your existing policy, and for some small trailers, that works fine. But for anything with a living space, a dedicated RV policy is almost always the better choice. Standard auto policies don't cover personal belongings, campsite liability, or the appliances and systems inside a motorhome. RV insurance is
more complex than standard auto coverage because of the dual nature of these vehicles as both transportation and habitation. An agency like Avery Insurance Agency, which takes a consultative approach to identifying vulnerabilities, can walk you through exactly where a standard auto add-on falls short for your specific rig.
By: Tod O’Dowd, CIC, CAPI
President of Avery Insurance Agency
Coverage Profiles for Motorized RVs: Class A, B, and C
Motorized RVs carry the engine, drivetrain, and living quarters in one unit, which means higher values and more complex claims. The class designation tells you a lot about what your policy needs to address.
Class A: High-Value Assets and Total Loss Replacement
Class A motorhomes are the largest and most expensive RVs on the road. New models routinely cost $150,000 to $500,000, and luxury diesel pushers can exceed $1 million. At these values, total loss replacement coverage becomes critical. Standard actual cash value policies depreciate your RV over time, meaning a five-year-old Class A worth $300,000 might only pay out $180,000 after a total loss. Agreed value or total loss replacement endorsements lock in a payout amount, so you're not left with a gap.
Motorhome insurance typically costs between $504 and $3,000 per year, and Class A units sit firmly at the upper end of that range. Owners should also consider full replacement cost coverage for custom interiors, because rebuilding a hand-finished coach interior costs far more than the depreciated value an insurer might otherwise calculate.
Class B and C: Balancing Chassis and Living Space Protection
Class B campervans and Class C motorhomes sit in a middle ground. Class B units are built on standard van chassis and typically range from $60,000 to $200,000. Class C models, recognizable by their cab-over sleeping area, usually fall between $80,000 and $300,000. Both need coverage that addresses the vehicle chassis and the living components equally.
One common mistake: owners insure the chassis value but underinsure the conversion or living space build-out. A custom Class B van conversion might add $80,000 in value beyond the base vehicle. Make sure your policy reflects the total investment, not just the sticker price of the original van or truck chassis.
Insuring Non-Motorized Units and Travel Trailers
Travel trailers, fifth wheels, and pop-up campers don't have engines, which changes the insurance equation significantly. Premiums drop because there's no drivetrain to cover, but the living space risks remain identical.
Special Considerations for Fifth Wheels and Pop-Up Campers
The average annual premium for a travel trailer policy was $594 based on recent data, making towable units far cheaper to insure than motorized RVs. That said, fifth wheels can cost $50,000 to $150,000 new, and a bare-minimum policy won't adequately protect that investment.
Pop-up campers and smaller trailers present a different risk profile. They're more susceptible to wind damage, water intrusion, and theft because of their lighter construction. Roof protection and pest damage riders, which we'll cover shortly, are especially relevant for these units. One thing to keep in mind: your tow vehicle's auto policy does not extend to cover the trailer it's pulling. You need a separate policy for the trailer itself.
Full-Timer Coverage: When Your RV is Your Primary Residence
If your RV is your permanent address, a standard recreational RV policy won't cut it. Full-timer coverage essentially functions as a homeowner's policy adapted for a mobile dwelling.
Personal Liability and Medical Payments to Others
Full-timer policies include personal liability limits that mirror what you'd find in a homeowner's policy, typically $100,000 to $500,000. This covers you if someone is injured at your campsite, trips over your power cord, or is hurt inside your RV. Medical payments to others, a separate coverage, pays smaller medical bills for injured guests regardless of fault, keeping minor incidents from becoming lawsuits.
Full-time RV insurance typically costs 25-50% more than recreational coverage, ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 annually. The premium increase reflects the dramatically higher exposure: you're living in the unit year-round, which multiplies the likelihood of both liability incidents and property damage.
Loss Assessment and Adjacent Structures Coverage
Many full-timers park in RV communities or co-op parks that levy special assessments after major events like storm damage to shared facilities. Loss assessment coverage pays your share of those assessments. Adjacent structures coverage protects items like storage sheds, decks, or carports you've added at your site. These are coverages most people don't think about until they get a bill from their park association for $5,000 after a hurricane repairs the clubhouse roof.
Essential Add-Ons for the Modern RVer
Base policies cover the fundamentals, but several endorsements are worth serious consideration depending on how and where you travel.
Emergency Roadside Assistance and Towing
A Class A motorhome can't be towed by a standard AAA truck. Specialized heavy-duty towing for a 40-foot diesel pusher can cost $1,000 or more just to reach the nearest repair facility. Roadside assistance endorsements tailored to RVs cover heavy towing, tire changes for oversized wheels, mobile mechanic dispatch, and even fuel delivery. For full-timers and frequent travelers, this is non-negotiable.
Personal Effects and Vacation Liability Protection
Personal effects coverage protects your belongings inside the RV: electronics, clothing, sporting equipment, kitchen gear. Standard policies might cap this at $3,000 to $5,000, but many RVers carry $15,000 or more in personal property. Make sure your limits match reality.
Vacation liability extends your coverage to rented campsites and temporary locations. If your RV's water hookup fails and floods the neighboring site, vacation liability responds. This is separate from your vehicle liability and specifically addresses your role as a temporary "resident" of the campground.
Pest Protection and Roof Protection Riders
Mice, squirrels, and insects cause thousands of dollars in damage to stored RVs every year, chewing through wiring, insulation, and upholstery. Pest protection riders cover this damage, which standard comprehensive policies typically exclude. Roof protection is equally important: RV roofs take a beating from UV exposure, branches, and hail. A roof replacement on a Class A can run $5,000 to $15,000, and many base policies exclude roof damage after the unit reaches a certain age.
Your RV insurance premium depends on a handful of key variables. Here's what moves the needle most:
| Factor | Impact on Premium | What You Can Control |
|---|---|---|
| RV Type and Value | Class A costs 3-5x more than travel trailers | Choose agreed value vs. actual cash value wisely |
| Usage (Recreational vs. Full-Time) | Full-time adds 25-50% to premiums | Accurately report your usage pattern |
| Storage Location | Covered storage reduces theft/weather risk | Invest in secure, covered storage |
| Driving Record | Clean records earn significant discounts | Maintain safe driving habits |
| Deductible Amount | Higher deductibles lower premiums 10-25% | Choose a deductible you can absorb |
| Bundling Policies | Multi-policy discounts of 5-15% | Bundle with home and auto |
Completing an RV safety course, installing anti-theft devices, and maintaining a claims-free history all contribute to lower rates. Working with an experienced agency like Avery Insurance Agency, which has over 125 years of advocating for clients, helps ensure you're not overpaying for coverage you don't need or missing protection you do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need RV insurance if I only use my camper a few weekends a year? Yes. Most states require at least liability coverage for motorized RVs, and your tow vehicle policy won't cover damage to a trailer. Even seasonal use exposes you to storage risks like theft and weather damage.
Can I insure my RV under my regular auto policy? Some small trailers can be added to auto policies, but motorhomes and larger travel trailers need dedicated RV policies to cover the living space, personal belongings, and campsite liability.
What's the difference between agreed value and actual cash value? Agreed value locks in a set payout amount if your RV is totaled. Actual cash value depreciates the RV over time, often leaving you with a payout far below replacement cost.
How much does full-timer RV insurance cost? Expect to pay $1,500 to $4,000 per year, depending on your rig's value and where you travel. That's roughly 25-50% more than a recreational-use policy.
Does RV insurance cover my belongings inside the unit? Most policies include some personal effects coverage, but default limits are often low. Check your policy and increase limits if you carry expensive electronics or gear.
Making the Right Choice for Your Rig
RV insurance isn't one-size-fits-all, and the right policy depends entirely on what you own, how you use it, and what you'd need to recover from a worst-case scenario. A weekend warrior with a pop-up camper has fundamentally different needs than a retired couple living full-time in a Class A diesel pusher. Take inventory of your actual risks, review your coverage limits annually, and don't assume your current policy still fits after a major life change or upgrade. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your coverage matches your life on the road is worth every minute spent getting it right.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tod O’Dowd, CIC, CAPI
I'm the President of Avery Insurance Agency, a family-owned independent agency serving individuals and businesses across New England and in 40+ states. With a hands-on, consultative approach to personal and commercial risk, I help clients — from high-net-worth homeowners and contractors to restaurant owners and property managers — find the right coverage without the guesswork of working with a single-carrier agent.
What Our Clients Say
Trusted by Families and Businesses for Over a Century
Trusted by New Hampshire Families and Businesses for Over a Century
Your Life. Protected.
Complete Personal Insurance for Individuals Who Expect More
One Agency. Every Coverage You Need. No Gaps, No Surprises.
Home Insurance
Your home is your most valuable asset. Avery’s home insurance protects your property, belongings, and liability so you can feel secure no matter what happens.
High-Value Home Insurance
Own a home valued over $2 million? Our Premier Client Services program provides coverage built around high-value properties and the unique risks they carry.
Auto Insurance
Whether you drive a daily commuter, a classic car, or a motorcycle, Avery finds the right auto coverage for your vehicle and your budget.
Boat & Watercraft Insurance
From small boats on New Hampshire’s lakes to luxury yachts, Avery provides watercraft insurance covering your vessel, passengers, and liability on the water.
Umbrella / Personal Liability Insurance
An umbrella policy adds an extra layer of liability protection above your home and auto coverage. One of the most cost-effective ways to protect your financial future.
Valuable Possessions Insurance
Jewelry, art, collectibles, and other high-value items need coverage beyond a standard homeowners policy. Avery insures your most prized possessions at full appraised value.
Protect Your Business & Livelihood
Commercial Insurance Solutions Designed for New England Businesses.
Comprehensive Commercial Coverage That Keeps Your Business Running
General Liability Insurance
Protect your business from third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. General liability is the foundation of any solid business insurance program.
Commercial Property Insurance
Covers your building, equipment, inventory, and other physical assets against fire, theft, vandalism, and other covered losses. Keep your business protected from the unexpected.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Workers’ comp covers medical costs and lost wages when an employee is injured on the job. Avery helps businesses meet state compliance requirements and manage costs effectively.
Cyber Liability Insurance
Data breaches and cyberattacks are a growing risk for businesses of all sizes. Cyber liability covers response costs, legal fees, and customer notification expenses after a security incident.
Employment Practices Liability Insurance
Covers your business against employee claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and related issues. Essential for any business with employees.
Commercial Auto Insurance
Whether a single truck or a full fleet, commercial auto insurance protects your business against accidents, damage, and liability on the road.
We Know Your Industry
Tailored Insurance Programs for the Industries That Drive New Hampshire
We Understand the Risks Your Industry Faces — and How to Manage Them
Contractors Insurance
From general contractors to specialty trades, Avery understands the unique liability and property exposures your business faces on every job site in New England. We build coverage programs that keep your crew and company protected.
Restaurants & Hospitality
Restaurants, hotels, and marinas face distinct risks — from slip-and-fall liability to liquor liability and food spoilage. Avery designs coverage programs for the specific needs of the hospitality industry.
Real Estate & Property
Whether you own a portfolio of investment properties or manage a condo association, Avery provides the right mix of property, liability, and management coverage to protect your real estate investments.
We Make It Simple
Getting Covered with Avery Is Easy
Step 01
Connect with an Avery Advisor
Call, email, or request a coverage online and we will respond the same business day.
Step 02
We Build Your Coverage Plan
We shop top-rated carriers, compare your options, and recommend the best fit for your needs.
Step 03
You Get Protected and Stay Protected
We place your coverage, review it annually, and advocate for you if you ever need to file a claim.
Let’s Clear Things Up
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Straight Answers From the Advisors Who Know This State Best
What does it mean that Avery is an independent insurance agency?
An independent agency like Avery is not tied to any single insurance company. We represent multiple top-rated carriers, which means we can shop the market on your behalf and recommend the coverage that truly fits your needs — not the one that benefits any single insurer.
This independence gives you access to more options and unbiased advice. Our advisors are compensated to serve your interests, not to push a specific product. That is a significant advantage over captive agents who can only offer one carrier’s policies.
How much does it cost to work with an Avery advisor?
There is no direct cost to you for working with an Avery advisor. Independent agents are compensated through commissions paid by the insurance carriers when a policy is placed. You receive expert guidance, market comparisons, and ongoing service at no extra charge.
In fact, many clients find that working with Avery saves them money. Our advisors know how to identify the right coverage levels so you are not paying for protection you do not need, and you are not left exposed where you do.
Does Avery help with claims?
Yes — and this is one of the most important things that sets Avery apart. When you have a claim, our in-house claims advisors go to work for you. We guide you through the process, communicate with the insurance company, and advocate for a fair and timely outcome.
Several of our team members hold professional claims designations, including AIC and AINS. We do not just help you file paperwork — we actively represent your interests to make sure you receive the full benefit your policy provides.
Where in New Hampshire does Avery provide coverage?
Avery serves clients throughout the state of New Hampshire from our offices in Wolfeboro and Portsmouth. Whether you live in the Lakes Region, the Seacoast, the White Mountains, or the Merrimack Valley, an Avery advisor is ready to help you find the right coverage.
Our advisors understand the specific risks that come with living and doing business in New Hampshire — from harsh winter weather to seasonal watercraft exposure. We apply that local knowledge to every coverage recommendation we make.
How does Avery handle high-value homes and assets?
Avery offers a dedicated Premier Client Services program for clients with homes valued over .5 million, significant investment portfolios, fine art collections, jewelry, yachts, and other complex assets. This program pairs you with a specialist who understands the unique risks of high-net-worth households.
Through carriers that specialize in high-value personal lines, we provide guaranteed replacement cost coverage, agreed value policies, and comprehensive risk management strategies. Your advisor will conduct a detailed review of your full asset portfolio to make sure nothing is overlooked or underinsured.
How often should I review my insurance coverage?
Avery recommends a full coverage review at least once a year. Major life events — buying a home, starting a business, adding a vehicle, getting married, or making significant home improvements — are all good triggers for an immediate review outside your annual cycle.
Insurance needs change over time, and policies that were right for you a few years ago may leave gaps today. Avery advisors proactively reach out to clients for annual reviews and keep up with changes in the insurance market that could affect your coverage or premium. Our goal is to make sure you are always protected and never paying for coverage that no longer fits.
Insurance Tips & News
Stay Informed with the Avery Blog
Practical Insurance Advice for New Hampshire Families and Business Owners
Contact Us
Portsmouth (HQ)
7 Islington St #102, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Phone Number: 603.766.3733
Wolfeboro
21 S Main Street, Wolfeboro, NH 03894
Phone Number: 603.569.2515