Before buying an RV, you can either add your new recreational vehicle to an existing policy or purchase a new RV insurance policy. In both scenarios, you’ll need to provide the new RV’s vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, year, and specific RV class designation.
Do You Have to Have Insurance Before Buying an RV?
You don’t technically need to have insurance before buying an RV. However, this is only a technicality, as you will need to have coverage to legally drive your new home-on-wheels off the lot if you don’t already have existing insurance coverage.
If you currently have an RV insurance policy, you generally have a short grace period of around 30 days or less to inform your insurance carrier of the policy update for your new RV.
If you’re buying from a dealership, expect to show proof of insurance before they release the RV to you. Modern RV dealerships will generally verify your policy using insurance verification software or a standard phone call, so it’s ideal to have a policy in place to streamline the buying process.
For private sellers, there probably won’t be a formal check — but to stay in legal compliance and protect your investment, you’ll want to cover your bases with insurance before getting behind the wheel.
It’s Possible to Get RV Insurance Before Buying an RV
Whether you’re in the market to purchase an RV for weekend adventures, full-time living, or seasonal travel, you will need an RV insurance policy. To find the best coverage for your individual situation, it’s best to start shopping for a new RV insurance policy at least one week in advance. This way, it gives you time to understand your options, secure the coverage you need, and iron out any other details.
New RV Grace Period: When you purchase a new RV—whether it’s from a dealership or a private seller—most insurance companies will provide you with a 7-30 day grace period to add your RV to your existing coverage.
The Easiest Way to Buy RV Insurance Before Buying an RV
- Gather the Information You Need: You can’t buy RV insurance without knowing your RV’s:
- Make, model, and year
- RV class (Class A, B, C, Fifth Wheel, Travel Trailer, etc.)
- Length and weight specifications
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Estimated annual mileage
- Intended use (full-time, seasonal, weekend use)
You’ll also need the information of every person who will be driving the RV, including their legal name, birth date, social security number, and driver’s license number. Keep in mind that the driving record of all drivers added to your policy will impact your final rate.
- Find the Insurance Coverage You Need: Next, you need to choose your RV insurance coverage. This includes what type of coverage you prefer, the amount of coverage you need, and any additional coverage options specific to RV living.
First things first: You will need to meet your state minimum insurance requirements before you can register or drive your new RV. While basic liability coverage is essential, RV insurance needs often go beyond standard auto insurance due to the unique nature of recreational vehicles.
Consider These Important RV-Specific Coverages:
- Full-timer’s coverage (if you plan to live in your RV)
- Personal belongings coverage
- Campsite liability
- Emergency vacation expense coverage
- Total loss replacement
- Custom equipment coverage
- Awning and accessory coverage
KEEP IN MIND If you’re financing your RV, most lenders will require you to purchase comprehensive and collision coverage to protect their investment. With a loan, it may be wise to also invest in gap insurance in the event of a total loss.
- Consider Available Discounts: Several types of discounts can help make your RV insurance more affordable:
- Multi-vehicle discount (if you have other vehicles insured)
- Safe driver discount
- RV safety course completion discount
- Paid-in-full discount
- Storage discount for seasonal users
- Safety feature discounts
- RV association membership discounts
How Long Does it Take to Get RV Insurance?
While it’s advised that RV buyers shop for insurance at least a week prior to purchase, at Happy Camper, we understand that sometimes you need coverage quickly. Our team can help you find and purchase a same-day policy that meets your needs. The entire process, from quote to securing a policy, typically takes just a few hours.
Ready to Protect Your Adventure Home? Happy Camper specializes in RV insurance and understand the unique needs of the RV community. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or planning to live full-time in your RV, our team of specialists can help you find the perfect coverage for your lifestyle.
Contact us today to get started on protecting your home on wheels. Let us help you hit the road with confidence!
