Whether you’re exploring the Scottish Highlands or taking a scenic coastal route in Cornwall, travelling in a campervan offers freedom and flexibility. However, the joy of the open road can quickly turn stressful if your campervan breaks down without warning. That’s where campervan breakdown cover becomes invaluable. This comprehensive guide is designed for UK campervan owners and enthusiasts, covering everything you need to know to stay protected on your travels. From understanding what breakdown cover entails to choosing the right policy, we’ve got you covered.
What Is Campervan Breakdown Cover?
Campervan breakdown cover is a specialist form of roadside assistance tailored for campervans and motorhomes. Unlike standard car breakdown policies, it accounts for the size, weight, and often complex internal systems of campervans. Services typically include roadside repairs, towing, home assistance, and in some cases, temporary accommodation or vehicle replacement. Some policies also cover electrical or mechanical failures specific to campervans, like issues with the habitation battery or on-board water systems. It’s essential to understand that not all vehicle breakdown policies extend to campervans, especially if they’re larger or older than average.
Why Campervan Breakdown Cover Is Essential
Owning a campervan means you may often be travelling in remote or rural areas where access to repair facilities is limited. In such cases, having specialist cover ensures help is just a phone call away. Unlike cars, campervans often contain valuable contents and systems such as fridges, cookers, and beds, making a breakdown not just inconvenient but disruptive to your lifestyle. Breakdown cover provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your travels without constantly worrying about what might go wrong. It’s especially crucial for solo travellers or those with children, where safety and reliability are paramount.
Types of Campervan Breakdown Cover
Campervan breakdown cover usually includes several levels of service:
Roadside Assistance: This is the most basic level, offering help if your campervan breaks down during a journey. A mechanic will attempt to fix the issue on the spot.
National Recovery: If the vehicle can’t be repaired roadside, national recovery ensures it and its passengers are transported to any UK destination.
Home Start: If your campervan won’t start at or near your home, this cover gets you moving again.
Onward Travel: This includes alternative transport, overnight accommodation, or a replacement vehicle to help you reach your destination.
European Cover: Essential for international travel, this provides breakdown support across the continent and includes multilingual helplines, repatriation, and more.
Choosing the Right Campervan Breakdown Cover
When selecting a policy, it’s important to consider your vehicle’s age, weight, and where you plan to travel. Not all providers cover older campervans or those over a certain weight (often 3.5 tonnes). Think about how frequently you travel and whether you need European coverage. If you use your campervan for long road trips or full-time living, a comprehensive policy with accommodation and vehicle replacement options may be worthwhile.
Check whether your campervan’s make or modifications affect eligibility. Always read the small print and understand what is or isn’t included before committing to a policy. If you’ve modified your vehicle, it’s also worth exploring our guide on Insurance for Campervan Conversions to ensure your cover meets all legal and practical requirements.
Top Campervan Breakdown Cover Providers in the UK
Several UK providers offer campervan-specific breakdown cover:
RAC: Offers comprehensive motorhome and campervan cover, including European assistance and large vehicle eligibility.
AA: Known for its extensive recovery network, the AA provides packages suitable for campervans and includes optional European cover.
Green Flag: Offers competitive pricing with flexible packages, including personal cover options.
Start Rescue: A budget-friendly alternative with good customer service and flexible policy add-ons.
Comfort Insurance: Specialises in motorhome insurance and includes breakdown as part of its wider cover.
When comparing, look at the maximum vehicle weight/length, call-out limits, and European zone compatibility.
What’s Typically Covered (and What’s Not)
Most campervan breakdown policies cover common issues like mechanical or electrical failures, flat batteries, tyre problems, and misfuelling. Assistance for lost keys, towing, and minor roadside repairs is usually included. Some providers extend this to features unique to campervans, such as habitation area issues. However, exclusions are just as important. Pre-existing faults, vehicles that haven’t been properly maintained, and breakdowns caused by modifications outside legal limits are often excluded. You may also not be covered if your vehicle exceeds weight, height, or length restrictions outlined in the policy. Always verify cover for your specific campervan type.
European Campervan Breakdown Cover: What to Know
If you plan to venture beyond the UK, European breakdown cover is a must. It typically includes roadside assistance in multiple countries, onward travel, repatriation of your campervan if necessary, and multilingual helpline support. Since Brexit, some policies require additional paperwork such as a Green Card or proof of insurance for EU countries. Check which countries are included in the coverage zone and whether travel within certain dates is restricted. Be mindful of toll road rules, mandatory equipment (e.g. warning triangles, breathalysers), and foreign repair protocols. Having proper European cover avoids hefty out-of-pocket expenses abroad.
Cost of Campervan Breakdown Cover
The cost of campervan breakdown cover varies widely depending on the level of protection and your vehicle’s specifications.
Basic UK-only cover can start from around £40 per year, while premium packages with European cover and onward travel may exceed £150 annually. Factors that influence cost include the age and size of your campervan, how often you use it, and whether you opt for add-ons like home start or unlimited callouts.
You may find cost savings by bundling cover with your campervan insurance or through club memberships. Always compare quotes from multiple providers before purchasing.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
A common mistake is assuming a standard car policy covers your campervan—this is rarely the case, especially if your vehicle exceeds size or age limits. Another pitfall is failing to check for exclusions related to European travel or pre-existing conditions. Some policies may limit the number of callouts or exclude modified vehicles.
Always read the policy documentation carefully, and ask questions if you’re unsure. Make sure the cover meets your travel habits and campervan specifications. Don’t simply choose the cheapest option; balance cost with comprehensive cover to ensure you’re not left stranded.
Top Tips for Using Campervan Breakdown Cover Effectively
To get the most from your policy, keep both physical and digital copies of your documents handy, especially when travelling abroad. Familiarise yourself with your provider’s emergency number and app if available. Perform basic maintenance checks before setting off, such as inspecting tyres, oil levels, and battery charge.
In the event of a breakdown, move to a safe place and call your provider with clear details of your location. Use reflective gear and warning triangles to stay visible. Taking a proactive approach can minimise disruption and ensure faster, more efficient assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get cover for an older campervan? Yes, but some providers impose age limits or higher premiums.
Is breakdown cover included in campervan insurance? Sometimes, especially with specialist insurers, but it’s not guaranteed.
What’s the difference between campervan and motorhome cover? Often just size and weight criteria, but always check policy specifics.
Can I call out multiple times a year? Most providers offer unlimited or a set number of callouts, but excessive use may lead to restrictions.
Are modified campervans covered? Some are, provided they meet legal standards and are declared; always confirm with the insurer.
Final Thoughts on Campervan Breakdown Cover
Campervan breakdown cover is an essential safeguard for any UK-based van-lifer or road tripper. It ensures that whether you’re parked on a Cornish cliffside or navigating the Pyrenees, you’re never without help when you need it most.
With so many options available, it’s important to choose a policy tailored to your campervan, travel plans, and budget. Take the time to compare features, check the small print, and invest in cover that offers both practical support and peace of mind. After all, the road should be your adventure—not your worry.
