For many, RVing isn’t just about vacations or weekend getaways—it’s a way of life. Full-timers, or those who use their motorhome as a permanent or primary residence for at least 150 days per year, need insurance that goes far beyond the basics of standard RV coverage. In fact, full-timer RV insurance is designed to function much like a homeowner’s policy, offering liability, personal property protection, and medical payments coverage to safeguard your rolling home and lifestyle.
Why Full-Timer RV Insurance is Different
Standard RV insurance often focuses on collision, comprehensive, and liability while driving. But if your motorhome isyour home, you need broader protection. Full-timer policies provide:
- Personal Liability Coverage – Similar to homeowner’s insurance, this protects you if someone is injured in or around your RV or if you accidentally cause damage to another person’s property.
- Medical Payments Coverage – Covers medical expenses for guests injured in your RV, regardless of fault.
- Personal Property Protection – Safeguards your belongings inside the RV, such as electronics, clothing, and kitchenware.
Essentially, full-timer RV insurance fills the gap between auto and homeowners coverage, since full-timers don’t have a separate home policy to lean on.
Key Coverages You’ll Want to Confirm
When shopping for a full-timer policy, make sure your coverage includes:
- Full Replacement Cost or Agreed Value – Protects you from depreciation by covering either the full replacement of your RV or a pre-agreed value in case of total loss.
- Personal Effects Coverage – Extends protection for the contents of your RV (computers, furniture, tools, etc.)—similar to homeowners insurance.
- Emergency Expenses Coverage – Helps pay for lodging, meals, or travel if your RV is damaged and you can’t live in it temporarily.
- Vacation Liability – Covers injuries or damage that occur while your RV is parked at a campsite.
- Optional Add-ons – Such as roadside assistance, towing, awning protection, or full-time liability umbrella coverage.
Who Offers Full-Timer RV Insurance?
Not all insurance companies write full-timer policies, so it’s best to work with insurers or brokers who specialize in RV coverage. Well-known providers may offer full-timer RV insurance. Independent insurance brokers specializing in RVs and specialty vehicles can also compare policies across companies to find the best fit.
When working with a broker, be upfront about your lifestyle. If you’re full-timing but only request standard RV insurance, you may end up underinsured.
Establishing the Value of Your RV and Contents
To determine how much insurance you need, consider:
- RV Value – Decide whether you want coverage based on actual cash value (replacement minus depreciation), agreed value (a set dollar amount you and the insurer agree upon), or replacement cost (the amount to replace with a similar RV, typically available only on newer rigs).
- Contents Value – Make a detailed inventory of your belongings inside the RV. Document major items with photos, receipts, or appraisals. Estimate what it would cost to replace everything in case of a total loss.
- Upgrades & Customizations – Don’t forget to include aftermarket additions like solar panels, upgraded appliances, or custom interiors. These improvements can significantly raise your RV’s replacement cost.
Final Thoughts
Living full-time in an RV is a rewarding lifestyle, but it comes with unique insurance needs. Full-timer RV insurance bridges the gap between auto and homeowners coverage, ensuring you’re protected both on the road and at your campsite. By working with a specialized insurer or broker, carefully documenting your RV and its contents, and understanding the coverages available, you can rest easy knowing your home on wheels is fully protected.
