The importance of like-for-like caravan insurance quotes

One insurer may come out cheaper than another, but it's important to make sure the quote includes everything you need, and that you compare differences in cover. Always remember that the best value insurance isn't necessarily the cheapest. Insurance which represents good value for money is a combination of three things - the policy having the cover you need, the insurer having the quality of service you want, and the price being competitive for the cover and service provided.

Remember that in some cases the insurance premium quoted isn't the total amount you'll pay - some insurers charge an administration fee on top of the cost of the premium, and most will charge a little extra to pay monthly, so it's important you include these fees when comparing quotes from different insurers.

Many home insurance policies cover your personal affects when away from home, this means that may not need to add the cost of personal effects you bring from home onto your caravan insurance - otherwise you will in effect be paying twice for the same cover. However, you may want to include cover for equipment which is solely for use when caravanning which wouldn't be covered by your home policy - this includes theft of things such as aqua-rolls and awnings, and security equipment such as hitchlocks and wheel clamps.

A good way to start, before you begin calling for quotes, is to make a short list of the essential elements you want your insurance policy to include, then if any of these aren't mentioned during the call you can ask whether they are included. By doing this you avoid wasting your time by comparing quotes that don't contain the cover you require, and you avoid having to call back with further questions.

Things such as storm damage to awnings are not included by some insurers, so make sure you check the policy carefully to see what is and isn't covered, particularly if you intend on touring the UK outside the summer months.

The old saying that "you don't know how good an insurer is until you make a claim" is not bad advice - ask caravanning friends and family, and keep an eye out in caravan magazines and their online forums for customer reviews of insurers. This can be a good indication of the customer service or claims history a company has, but remember that premiums are based your individual circumstances and cover requirements - so whilst one insurer may represent good value for one person another insurer may be able to offer you a better deal.

Also make sure that the policy is underwritten by a well known and reputable insurer.

Another important factor when comparing quotes are the discounts available from different insurers - make sure that if you have any extra security fitted such as a recognised tracking device or alarm you let the insurer know, as you may be entitled to discounts which reduce the premium.

Caravan Guard Limited specialise in caravan insurance in the UK. For more information about our insurance services or to get a quote online, visit http://www.caravanguard.co.uk