As with automobiles, RV drivers are required by law to have liability coverage, just like people who drive conventional vehicles. This offers financial protection to other drivers that the RV may collide with, ensuring that if the RV inflicts damage on another vehicle, that damage will be paid for out of the RV driver's insurance. Liability coverage is the absolute minimum required by most states. However, in most instances it is wise to purchase more than what is simply required by law.

Recreational vehicle (RV) insurance policies are more complicated than either car insurance or homeowner's insurance policies. RV insurance policies combine aspects of both car and homeowner's insurance to guarantee that all aspects of the RV are covered. There are different types of RV insurance policies that provide different amounts of coverage. Some basic policies mainly cover the vehicular aspects of the RV, such as collision and liability. Other RV insurance policies also cover items within the RV, such as plumbing and appliances. It is important that RV owners get as much coverage as they can afford since RVs are both vehicles and living spaces, and both aspects need to be insured. It is highly advised to read your policy more than one time, paying particular attention to what is and isn't covered by the policy.

Collision insurance covers any damage to the RV if any type of collision occurs. Another important type of coverage is uninsured driver insurance. This type of coverage protects the RV driver from having to personally pay for any damages to the RV done by uninsured motorists who may collide with the RV. Total loss coverage ensures that if the RV is damaged beyond repair, the insurance will cover the cost of its replacement. This type of insurance protects the RV owner from any liability for injury or damage that may occur in the vicinity and area of the RV in a campsite.

Since RVs can be dwellings as well as vehicles, the property inside the RV should also be covered. The law does not require this coverage, but it is a good idea, especially for people who live primarily in their RV and store an ample amount of personal items of significant value in their RV. RVs typically contain items that cars don't have, such as furniture, appliances, and even widescreen plasma TVs. If the RV is damaged extensively, these items could require repair or replacement. Other items such as plumbing and electrical components of the RV can also be insured. Many people store things like clothes, TVs, computers, and camping gear in their RVs. Just like in a home, these items can be damaged or stolen while on the road. It would be a wise idea to purchase insurance for them. Some RV insurance policies are designed for people whose RV is their primary residence. These policies cover all vehicular and home aspects of the RV.

RV insurance policies are complex, but it is vital that RV owners purchase the right coverage. The bare minimum is not enough for people who live in their recreational vehicle.