Owning a towable RV is a dream come true for many people. It gives you the freedom to travel while still having the comfort of home. You can hook it up to your truck, head out on the open road, and camp in beautiful places. But before you do that, there’s one important question to think about: Do you need insurance for your towable RV?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about towable RV insurance. We’ll explain what it covers, how much it costs, when it’s required, and what to look for when choosing a policy. Whether you have a travel trailer, fifth wheel, pop-up camper, or toy hauler, this guide is for you.
Let’s keep it simple and get straight to the facts.
What Is a Towable RV?
A towable RV is a type of recreational vehicle that doesn’t have its own engine. Instead, it’s pulled by another vehicle, usually a truck or SUV. There are several types:
Travel Trailers – These are the most common. They come in many sizes.
Fifth Wheels – Larger and more luxurious, they hitch into the bed of a truck.
Pop-Up Campers – These are small and fold down for easy towing.
Toy Haulers – These have space to carry ATVs, bikes, or other “toys.”
Towable RVs are popular because they’re usually less expensive than motorhomes, and you can detach them once parked and still use your vehicle separately.
But just because they don’t drive on their own doesn’t mean you shouldn’t insure them.
Is Towable RV Insurance Required?
Legally, most states do not require separate insurance for a towable RV. That’s because liability coverage while towing is usually extended from your tow vehicle’s auto policy.
In other words, if your truck is insured and you’re towing your RV, your liability coverage follows along. But here’s the problem: that’s where the coverage often stops.
Your auto policy does not automatically cover:
Physical damage to your RV in an accident
Fire, theft, or storm damage
Damage to items inside the RV
Personal liability while parked at a campsite
Emergency expenses like lodging or towing
So even if insurance isn’t required, it’s smart to get a separate RV policy for full protection.
What Does Towable RV Insurance Cover?
Let’s walk through the main types of coverage you might want.
1. Comprehensive Coverage
This protects your RV from non-collision incidents like fire, vandalism, theft, hail, and falling tree branches. If a storm hits while your trailer is in storage, this coverage helps.
2. Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your RV if you’re in an accident—whether you hit someone or they hit you. It applies even if you’re at fault.
3. Personal Property Coverage
Covers your belongings inside the RV, like clothes, cookware, electronics, and tools. This is useful if someone breaks in or there’s a fire.
4. Vacation Liability
If someone gets hurt at your campsite while visiting your RV, this helps cover medical or legal costs. Think of it like mini home insurance for your trailer.
5. Emergency Expense Coverage
If your RV is damaged while you’re traveling and you can’t use it, this covers hotel stays, food, or transportation.
6. Total Loss Replacement or Agreed Value
If your RV is totaled, this ensures you get back what it’s worth—or even a new one, depending on the policy.
7. Roadside Assistance
This add-on helps if your tow vehicle or trailer breaks down. It can include towing, flat tire help, battery jump-starts, and more.
What’s Not Covered?
Every policy has its limits. Here are some things most basic RV policies won’t cover unless you add special protection:
Wear and tear: Normal aging or maintenance issues aren’t covered.
Full-time living: If you live in your trailer year-round, you may need full-timer coverage.
Flooding: Some insurers may not include this unless requested.
Pets or business use: Special policies may be needed if you travel with pets or run a business from your RV.
Always ask questions and read the fine print before buying.
How Much Does Towable RV Insurance Cost?
The cost of towable RV insurance can vary widely depending on:
The type and value of your trailer
Where you live and travel
How often you use it
Your driving record
Coverage limits and deductibles
Here are some average yearly costs to give you a rough idea:
Pop-up campers: $100–$300 per year
Travel trailers: $200–$800 per year
Fifth wheels and toy haulers: $400–$1,200+ per year
Adding extras like roadside help or total loss replacement will increase the cost, but they can be worth it for peace of mind.
Do You Need Insurance When the Trailer Is Parked?
If your RV is stored on your property, some things may be covered under your homeowner’s policy—but not everything. Home insurance often limits coverage for detached structures or only covers basic damage, not theft or travel-related risks.
If your RV is parked at a storage lot or campground, it could be exposed to storms, vandalism, or theft. That’s where a separate RV policy helps. It can cover the trailer whether it’s moving or standing still.
What if You Rent or Lend Your Towable RV?
If you rent your RV out or let a friend borrow it, your regular insurance might not apply.
Some insurance companies allow you to add “rental coverage” to your policy. Others may void the coverage entirely if you use the RV commercially. If you plan to rent out your RV (like through Outdoorsy or RVshare), you should look into separate commercial RV insurance or check what coverage the platform offers.
What’s the Difference Between RV Insurance and Auto Insurance?
It’s easy to think that RVs are just like cars. But towable RVs have different risks and needs. Auto insurance follows the tow vehicle and focuses on driving-related risks. RV insurance focuses on what happens to the trailer itself, the belongings inside, and the people around it.
That’s why most experts recommend having both: an auto policy for your vehicle and a separate policy for your trailer.
How to Choose the Right Insurance for Your Towable RV
Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:
Know your RV’s value
Get the current market value of your trailer and all the extras inside. Include add-ons like solar panels, awnings, and bike racks.
Think about how you use it
Do you camp a few times a year? Or travel often? This affects the kind of policy you need.
Look for RV-specific insurance
Not all insurers offer strong RV coverage. Choose a company that understands RVs and has RV-specific features.
Get multiple quotes
Compare policies from at least three companies. Look at coverage, not just price.
Check the claims process
Read reviews to see how easy it is to file and settle a claim. Fast service matters when you’re on the road.
Who Offers Towable RV Insurance?
Here are some top companies known for offering good coverage for towable RVs:
Progressive: Popular for custom RV coverage and total loss replacement.
Good Sam Insurance Agency: Specializes in RVs and often includes extras like emergency coverage.
National General: Known for RV insurance with strong accessory protection.
GEICO: Offers affordable RV insurance with multiple discounts.
Foremost: Focuses on specialty RV coverage, including full-timer and rental use.
Make sure the company you choose understands your RV type and how you use it.
Conclusion
Yes, you do—if you want full protection. While the law might not require it, going without insurance could leave you exposed to major costs.
Your tow vehicle’s policy may give you some coverage while driving, but it likely won’t cover damage to the RV, theft, or loss of your belongings. And it definitely won’t help if a tree crashes down on your camper during a storm.
Towable RV insurance isn’t expensive when you compare it to the cost of replacing your trailer or paying out-of-pocket after an accident.
So if you want to enjoy your trips with peace of mind, protect your investment, and be ready for the unexpected, a solid RV insurance policy is the way to go.
Related topic:
Is Liberty Mutual RV Insurance Right for You?
