Renting an RV for a vacation or road trip is a great way to explore and travel in comfort. But before hitting the road, it’s important to think about protection. Temporary RV rental insurance helps cover the RV during the rental period. It protects you from paying out of pocket if there is damage, an accident, or theft while you’re using the RV.
Is temporary RV rental insurance really necessary? This type of insurance is not the same as your regular car insurance. Most personal auto policies do not cover rented recreational vehicles. Also, if you rely only on the rental company’s coverage, you may end up with expensive gaps in protection.
That’s where temporary RV rental insurance comes in. It gives short-term protection during your rental period and gives you peace of mind. Let’s take a deeper look into why this coverage is important, what it includes, and how you can get it.
Why Isn’t My Car Insurance Enough?
Many people think that their personal auto insurance will cover an RV rental. But in most cases, it doesn’t. RVs are bigger, more complex, and more expensive than regular cars. That means they come with different risks. Even if your policy covers rental cars, it likely won’t cover a large motorhome or trailer.
Some auto insurance companies may offer coverage for small camper vans, but it’s rare for them to cover full-sized RVs. It’s best not to assume anything. You should call your insurance provider and ask them directly. If they say no, you’ll need separate coverage.
What Can Happen If You Don’t Have Insurance?
If you don’t have temporary RV rental insurance and something goes wrong, you may have to pay thousands of dollars. Here are a few examples of what could happen:
You hit another vehicle while driving the RV.
Someone breaks into the RV and steals personal items.
A tree falls on the RV during a storm.
A fire damages the interior due to a cooking accident.
You damage the RV while parking or turning.
In any of these cases, the cost to repair or replace the RV can be very high. Without insurance, you could be held responsible for all those costs. This could turn a fun road trip into a financial nightmare.
What Does Temporary RV Rental Insurance Cover?
Coverage can vary depending on the company you choose. But most temporary RV rental insurance plans include:
Collision Damage: Covers repairs if you crash into something or someone hits you.
Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision incidents like fire, theft, or weather damage.
Liability Coverage: Pays for damage or injuries you cause to others while driving the RV.
Vacation Liability: Helps if someone gets hurt at your campsite or around the RV while it’s parked.
Personal Effects Coverage: May pay for your belongings if they are stolen or damaged inside the RV.
Some policies also include roadside assistance, towing, and other extras. Always read the policy details so you understand what is covered and what is not.
Where Can You Get Temporary RV Rental Insurance?
There are a few ways to get temporary RV rental insurance:
1. Through the Rental Company
Most RV rental companies offer their own insurance. It’s easy to get, and you can add it when you book the RV. But their coverage may be expensive or have limits. You may still be responsible for part of the cost if something happens. That’s why many renters look for better options elsewhere.
2. Through Third-Party Providers
Several insurance companies specialize in temporary RV rental insurance. These companies often provide more complete coverage than the rental company. You can get a quote online or over the phone. The process is usually fast, and you can choose how much coverage you want.
Some popular names in this area include:
MBA Insurance
Roamly
Outdoorsy (partners with insurers)
National General
3. Through Your Own Insurance Company
Some insurance companies will let you add RV rental coverage to your personal auto policy for a short time. This option can be more affordable than buying a separate plan. But again, not all companies offer this. You’ll need to call and ask.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of temporary RV rental insurance depends on a few things:
The type and size of RV
The length of the rental
Your driving history
Where you’re going
The level of coverage you choose
For example, basic liability coverage for a week-long trip might cost around $15 to $30 per day. Full coverage, which includes collision and comprehensive protection, could be $40 to $60 per day or more.
Even if it seems pricey, it’s often worth it. One accident can cost far more than the insurance would have.
Can You Use a Credit Card for Insurance?
Some credit cards offer rental car insurance when you use the card to pay. But this usually only covers regular cars, not RVs. You can call your card company and ask, but it’s unlikely they will provide full protection for an RV rental.
Relying on credit card coverage alone for an RV rental is risky and not recommended.
Is Insurance Required to Rent an RV?
Yes, in most cases, you cannot rent an RV without some form of insurance. Rental companies often require proof of insurance before handing over the keys. If you don’t have any, they will offer to sell you a policy on the spot.
Having insurance is not just a smart move—it’s usually a legal requirement. Driving an RV without proper coverage could get you fined or even sued if an accident occurs.
Can You Add Extra Protection?
Yes, many insurance companies let you add extras to your policy. These might include:
Roadside Assistance: Helps if you get a flat tire, run out of gas, or need a tow.
Trip Interruption: Pays for hotels and transport if your RV breaks down mid-trip.
Interior Damage: Covers damage to furniture, appliances, or fixtures inside the RV.
Pet Coverage: Some policies cover pet injuries during a crash.
These extras can make your trip safer and less stressful. Always check what’s included and decide what you need based on your travel plans.
What Should You Do Before You Buy?
Before you purchase temporary RV rental insurance, follow these steps:
Check with Your Auto Insurer: Ask if they offer RV rental coverage.
Ask the Rental Company: See what insurance they include or require.
Shop Around: Get quotes from third-party providers.
Compare Coverage: Look at what’s covered, the limits, and the deductibles.
Read the Fine Print: Understand what’s not covered and what your responsibilities are.
Make Sure It’s Enough: Don’t choose the cheapest plan just to save money. Make sure it actually protects you.
When Should You Buy It?
It’s best to get your insurance in place before you pick up the RV. In some cases, you can buy it on the day of pickup, but waiting until the last minute is not a good idea. If you plan early, you can compare more options and find better coverage.
You should start looking for insurance as soon as you book your rental. This gives you time to ask questions and make sure you’re covered properly.
Conclusion
Temporary RV rental insurance may seem like just another extra cost, but it’s one of the most important parts of renting an RV. Accidents can happen at any time, and RVs are expensive to fix or replace. Good insurance makes sure you don’t have to pay for those costs out of your own pocket.
Whether you’re going on a short weekend trip or a long summer vacation, temporary RV rental insurance gives you the protection you need. It allows you to enjoy your trip without constant worry. Take time to research your options, understand what’s covered, and choose a plan that fits your needs.
Related topic:
What Should You Know About RV Insurance in Manitoba?
Why Should You Consider America’s Choice RV Insurance?
Why Is Insurance Important for Your Campervan Hire Business?
