Shopping for motorhome insurance should feel like prepping for your next adventure—not navigating a maze of red tape and rejections. But if you’ve ever tried to get coverage for a unique, heavily modified, or older rig, you know the process can be more complicated than expected.
At Happy Camper Insurance, we specialize in helping RV owners find coverage that fits their lifestyle and their vehicle. So if you’ve been told your RV is “too risky,” “too old,” or “too modified” to insure—don’t give up yet. Here are five common reasons RVs can be harder to insure, and what you can do about it.
1. You’ve Made Aftermarket Modifications
We totally understand—customizing your RV is part of the fun. Whether it’s a solar panel array on the roof, a high-end sound system, or a lifted suspension for boondocking, those upgrades make your rig uniquely yours.
But here’s the catch: aftermarket modifications can increase the cost to repair or replace your RV, and insurers calculate premiums based on standardized equipment. Custom builds can signal more risk—or simply more complexity—causing some insurers to raise your rates or avoid coverage altogether.
What to do: Be transparent about modifications and ask your insurer if you can list them on an agreed-value or specialized policy. Some providers (like us!) are happy to cover upgrades if we understand them from the start.
2. It’s a Certain Make or Model
Certain RV models come with reputations—sometimes earned, sometimes exaggerated. Maybe a brand has a history of manufacturing defects. Maybe it’s a Class A motorhome with a higher claim rate due to accident history or repair costs. Or maybe a surge in theft reports has made a specific model more of a red flag.
Insurers rely on data: accident frequency, repair expenses, and how often a vehicle is stolen or damaged. If your RV model falls into a higher-risk category, you might be looking at fewer coverage options or steeper premiums.
What to do: If you’re still shopping for an RV, check with an insurance agent before you buy. Already own one? Talk to a provider that specializes in RVs—not just cars.
3. It’s a High-End or Luxury Rig
A high-end Class A motorhome or luxury fifth wheel might feel like a five-star hotel on wheels—but with that luxury comes a hefty price tag for insurers. Repairs often require specialized parts and labor, and replacement values can run into six figures or more.
This higher cost of claims means some insurance companies may decline to cover ultra-luxurious RVs, or only offer coverage at premium prices.
What to do: Seek out providers (like Happy Camper!) who understand how to properly assess and cover high-value rigs. Agreed-value policies are especially important to make sure you’re not underinsured.
4. It’s Considered an Antique or Classic RV
Vintage RVs—think a lovingly restored Airstream or a 70s Winnebago—are cool, nostalgic, and often built to last. But insuring them can be tricky.
Parts are harder to source. Repairs may require specialty shops. And standard policies may not reflect the actual value of your vintage RV, especially if it’s been upgraded over time.
What to do: Consider a specialty policy for classic RVs that factors in agreed-upon value, usage limitations (like occasional trips or rallies), and secure storage requirements. We offer policies just for this kind of setup.
5. It’s Just Plain Old and Worn Down
There’s a big difference between a vintage RV and one that’s simply old and in poor condition. If your rig hasn’t seen regular maintenance or lacks essential safety features, it could be considered too risky for standard coverage.
Insurance companies worry about breakdowns, leaks, and liabilities. If your RV doesn’t meet modern safety standards—or shows signs of wear and neglect—it could be hard to insure.
What to do: Invest in essential repairs and safety upgrades. Document improvements with receipts and photos. And work with an agent who knows how to place non-standard vehicles.
Don’t Let Coverage Be the Roadblock
Even if your RV has quirks, age, or custom flair, you still deserve reliable protection. At Happy Camper Insurance, we help RV owners of all types—weekend warriors, full-timers, and vintage vanlifers—find motorhome insurance that’s built for the road ahead.
Whether you’ve been denied coverage, need a specialty policy, or just want to understand your options, we’ve got your back.Contact Happy Camper today to explore RV coverage options that match your rig, your budget, and your travel style. Because the only thing that should be uninsurable is a boring weekend.
