With the popularity of UK staycations soaring and a new generation of self-converted campervan owners hitting the road, understanding campervan insurance costs has never been more important. Whether you’re exploring scenic coastlines or setting up for a weekend under the stars, making sure your van and finances are protected is the first step to peace of mind.
How Much Is Campervan Insurance?
Campervan insurance premiums in the UK typically start from around £220 to £400 per year for basic social, domestic, and pleasure (SDP) use, but can climb to over £1,200 for higher-value vehicles, full-time van life, or self-build conversions. For example, insuring a popular VW camper can cost between £376 and £450, while luxury or imported models can push past £1,000 annually.
Costs depend on multiple factors:
- Vehicle’s age, value, and engine size
- Owner’s driving experience and postcode
- Type of use (SDP, commuting, or rental/hire)
- Whether the van is professionally built or a self-conversion
For those converting their own van, specialist insurance is essential. It often starts at £235 per year for basic cover, but prices vary based on modifications, usage, and location.
Is Campervan Insurance Cheaper Than Van Insurance?
In most situations, campervan insurance is usually cheaper than standard van insurance. This is because campervans are often classed as leisure vehicles, typically driven fewer miles and kept to summer outings, rather than heavy-duty commuting or commercial use. Commercial vans are on the road more frequently, exposing them to greater risks, hence the higher premiums.
However, there are exceptions. If a campervan is used regularly for business or commuting, or if the conversion includes high-value fittings, insurance costs can rival or surpass those for commercial vans.
Can I Insure My Van as a Campervan?
Yes, and this is increasingly common thanks to the rise in DIY conversions. To insure your van as a campervan, you’ll need to reclassify the vehicle with the DVLA, meeting requirements such as a fixed bed, cooking facilities, water supply, and proper seating. Once registered and inspected, you’re eligible for specialist campervan cover, which usually offers more comprehensive protection than standard van policies, including cover for modifications, fixtures, and even European travel.
Insurers will want full details of your build, with all modifications declared upfront. Failing to do so risks voiding your policy if you need to make a claim.
Self-Converted Campervan Insurance
Self-builds are booming, but insurers have become more cautious. Quotes are often higher due to perceived risks of amateur or unique conversions. Insurers will look at:
- Quality and safety of conversion work
- Declared value of installed parts and fixtures
- Security features and garaging
- Regular inspection or appraisal if the build is ongoing
Choosing an insurer experienced with self-build campers (and supplying build documentation and photos) can help bring prices down. Some policies allow you to agree a fixed value upfront, which is vital for high-value conversions.
Trends Impacting Insurance Pricing
Staycations Are Driving Demand
With more Brits choosing holidaying at home over trips abroad, demand for campervans has surged, along with insurance queries and policy sales. Premiums have risen in tandem with values, especially around peak travel seasons, as insurers respond to busier UK roads and more adventurous drivers.
The Self-Build Surge
Forums and social media highlight a “DIY campervan revolution,” with more owners building their dream van from scratch or modifying used commercial vehicles. While rewarding, this boom has made insurers cautious, especially where builds are non-standard or where safety features are incomplete. If your build is ongoing, temporary insurance can cover you through the conversion phase. Once completed and certified, you’ll benefit from tailored policies suited to unique layouts and values.
Cost-of-Living & Savings Tips
With everyone watching the pennies, here are tips to keep your premiums affordable:
- Shop around, as quotes can vary by hundreds of pounds.
- Choose security upgrades and keep your van garaged.
- Limit mileage if possible, and be honest about usage.
- Keep all conversion paperwork and photos.
- Consider an agreed-value policy, especially for custom builds.
Campervan Insurance Cost Table at a Glance
| Campervan Type | Typical Annual Premium | Factors Affecting Cost |
| Factory-built campervan | £375–£650 | Age, value, location |
| Popular conversions | £400–£900 | Fit-out quality, driving history |
| High-end/self-builds | £800–£1,200+ | Modifications, usage, security |
| DIY/ongoing builds | £235+ (basic) | Build quality, declared value |
Summary
As the popularity of UK campervan holidays continues to rise, and as more enthusiasts create their own self-build dream vans, insurance pricing is evolving rapidly. By staying on top of conversion regulations, choosing the right policy, and providing detailed information, you’ll keep costs down and make the most of Britain’s staycation spots.
Need to compare campervan insurance quotes or get advice for your unique van? Fill in our quick form and our panel of expert providers will help you save and enjoy the road ahead with confidence.
