Caravan insurance in Australia typically runs from around $300 to $1,500+ a year, and where you land inside that range comes down to the van’s value, how you use it, where it’s kept and the cover you choose. A modest pop-top used a few weekends a year sits at the low end; a high-value full-size touring van lived in on the road costs considerably more. This guide breaks down what you can expect to pay, what drives the premium up or down, and the practical levers that bring it back down.
Typical cost ranges
| Caravan type / use | Indicative annual premium* |
|---|---|
| Small pop-top / camper, occasional use | ~$300–$600 |
| Mid-size touring van, regular holidays | ~$600–$1,000 |
| Large/full-size van, frequent touring | ~$1,000–$1,800 |
| High-value or living-on-the-road | $1,800+ |
*Ranges are general guidance only, not quotes. Your premium depends on the insurer, your van, your history and the cover selected.
What’s actually being insured
- Comprehensive — accidental damage, storm, fire, theft and damage to others’ property. The broadest (and dearest) cover.
- Third party property — damage your van causes to others, but not your own van. Cheaper, narrower.
- Contents / annexe / awning — often optional add-ons that lift the premium.
- On-site vs touring — a van that stays on one site is rated differently from one towed around the country.
What drives your premium up or down
- Value of the van — the single biggest factor; agreed value vs market value also matters.
- Where it’s stored — locked, undercover or on-site storage usually beats street parking.
- How you use it — full-time living and long touring cost more than occasional weekends.
- Your history — claims and driving record feed the price.
- Excess — a higher voluntary excess lowers the premium (but costs you more at claim time).
- Location — storm, flood and theft risk in your area.
How to pay less for caravan insurance
- Store the van securely (locked yard, wheel clamp, hitch lock).
- Choose the right cover for how you actually use it — don’t over-insure an occasional van.
- Consider a higher excess if you can wear it at claim time.
- Bundle with other policies where an insurer offers a multi-policy discount.
- Review annually — the van depreciates, so the sum insured (and premium) should track down.
Buying a van as well as insuring it?
If you’re still shopping, do a history check before you hand over money, and read our buying guide. Insuring cover on the water too? See how much boat insurance costs, or compare with car insurance.
Frequently asked questions
How much does caravan insurance cost per year in Australia?
Most owners pay between roughly $300 and $1,500 a year. A small occasional-use van sits at the low end; a large or full-time touring van sits well above it. The van’s value and how you use it are the biggest factors.
Is caravan insurance cheaper than car insurance?
It can be, because caravans are often used less and stored more securely — but a high-value touring van used full-time can cost more than a family car policy. Type of cover and agreed value drive the difference.
Does storing my caravan securely reduce the premium?
Usually, yes. Insurers view locked, undercover or on-site storage as lower theft and weather risk, which can reduce your premium compared with street parking.
What affects caravan insurance cost the most?
The van’s insured value is the biggest driver, followed by how you use it (occasional vs full-time), where it’s stored, your claims history and the excess you choose.
Do I need comprehensive caravan insurance?
It’s not legally required, but comprehensive cover protects your own van against accident, storm, fire and theft. Lighter third-party cover is cheaper but only pays for damage you cause to others — weigh the van’s value against the saving.
Written by the team at Car Buyers Assist.
This article is general information only and does not take into account your personal circumstances or needs. It is not financial or insurance advice. Car Buyers Assist helps you compare and connect with providers and does not issue or underwrite insurance. Consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and your own situation before making a decision.