If you’re planning to live out of your van or motorhome for extended periods, typical travel insurance may not cover your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned vanlifer or just starting out, here’s a breakdown of the different types of travel insurance to consider for long-term road adventures across the UK, Europe, Türkiye, and Morocco.
Living life on the road in your trusty van or motorhome is a dream come true for many. The freedom to travel wherever the wind takes you, from the scenic coasts of Europe to the bustling markets of Türkiye and the sun-soaked landscapes of Morocco, is an adventure that can’t be beaten. But before you buckle up and hit the road for months (or even years!), there’s one thing you definitely shouldn’t overlook: travel insurance.
1. Comprehensive travel insurance
This is your all-rounder. Comprehensive travel insurance typically covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or damaged belongings, and emergency repatriation.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
For long-term travellers, this policy can be a lifesaver (literally!). While you’re in remote areas, the last thing you want to worry about is how to pay for unexpected medical costs. Plus, coverage for your personal belongings ensures that if anything happens to your tech or camping gear, you’re covered.
Top tip:
Look for a policy that covers you for at least 6-12 months of continuous travel, as many standard policies only cater to short trips. We specifically recommend that you search for long stay or backpacker insurance policies. These types of policies align the closest to the types of travel you will do in your van or motorhome.
2. Vehicle breakdown cover
Breakdown cover is essential when your vehicle doubles as your home. This type of insurance helps if your van or motorhome breaks down and needs roadside assistance or recovery.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
Imagine breaking down in the middle of the Pyrenees or a remote stretch in Morocco without a mechanic in sight. With breakdown cover, you’ll have access to towing services and repairs so you can get back on the road without hefty out-of-pocket expenses.
Top tip:
Make sure your breakdown cover extends beyond the UK and includes international travel across Europe and countries like Türkiye and Morocco.
3. Personal cccident and injury insurance
This type of insurance provides compensation in case of serious injury or accidental death.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
Life on the road involves risk—whether it’s an accident while hiking in the mountains, cycling around new cities, or even an injury sustained while working on your van. Personal accident coverage ensures you’re protected in worst-case scenarios, helping with medical bills or providing financial support.
Top tip:
Check for policies that offer active lifestyle coverage, especially if you plan on engaging in sports or outdoor activities during your travels. Some policies include a basic level of cover for the outdoors. More extreme winter sports, kitesurfing or paragliding for example often require a more substantial cover option.
4. Campervan and motorhome insurance
This type of insurance is specifically designed for your van or motorhome and usually covers damage, theft, and accidents. It may also include liability insurance if you accidentally damage another vehicle or property.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
Regular car insurance won’t cut it when your van is both your transport and home. Specialized campervan insurance covers everything from damage to your kitchen setup to expensive repairs after an accident.
Top tip:
Make sure your policy offers “contents insurance” for personal items stored inside the van, like your laptop, camera, and tools. Also, ensure it covers multiple countries if you’re planning to hop between the UK, Europe, and beyond.
5. Health insurance / medical cover
Medical travel insurance will cover unexpected medical expenses, including emergency treatments, hospital stays, and even repatriation back to the UK.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
Healthcare systems vary across Europe, Türkiye, and Morocco, and the costs can add up quickly without coverage. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the newer UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) provides some level of healthcare access in European countries, but this won’t always cover all medical treatments or costs outside of Europe.
Top tip:
If you plan on visiting more remote or less-developed areas, consider adding evacuation or specialist medical cover to your policy. This is also worth considering if you’re participating in extreme or outdoor sports in remote locations (think helicopter or mountainside evacuation)
6. Travel liability insurance
This protects you if you accidentally injure someone or damage someone’s property while travelling.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
You never know when a small mistake could lead to a big bill. Whether it’s accidentally knocking over someone’s scooter in Italy or causing damage at a campsite, travel liability insurance can save you from paying out of pocket.
Top tip:
Ensure your policy covers all regions you’re travelling through, as liability laws can differ across countries.
7. Gadget and gear insurance
This insurance is dedicated to covering the loss, damage, or theft of high-value gadgets like smartphones, cameras, laptops, and even drones.
Why It’s important for vanlifers:
As a modern nomad, your gadgets are crucial—whether it’s keeping in touch with family, working remotely, or capturing beautiful moments of your travels. Losing a laptop or having a camera stolen while you’re out exploring can be a major setback. With gadget insurance, you’re covered.
Top tip:
Check for worldwide coverage, especially if you’re planning to cross borders frequently, and make sure high-value items like cameras are listed separately to avoid claim issues.Some policies also have quite low maximum item limits, ie. They might only pay out £1000 per item, regardless of if your laptop is worth £3000. Likewise you might have to individually log or record each of your high value items and keep this up to date.
Finding the right Insurance for your own vanlife adventure
When choosing the right insurance policy, keep your travel style in mind. Are you more of a remote mountain explorer, or do you spend more time in cities and on popular routes? Each policy will have its strengths depending on the regions you visit and the type of coverage you prioritise.
Look for multi-country coverage that includes not just Europe, but also destinations like Türkiye and Morocco. Some insurers might exclude these regions, so double-check for any geographical restrictions.
Lastly, be sure to review the policy’s small print on maximum travel duration. As a long-term traveller, you may be away from the UK for more than the usual 30-60 day limit offered by standard policies, so you need coverage that can keep up with your lifestyle. This is why we strongly suggest looking at long stay and backpacker insurance policies.
Life on the road is full of adventure, but it also comes with its share of uncertainties. Whether it’s ensuring your van stays roadworthy, protecting your gear, or making sure you’re covered for unexpected medical expenses, the right travel insurance can give you peace of mind on your long-term journey.
By planning ahead and securing the proper coverage, you can focus on what truly matters, enjoying the freedom of the open road and experiencing the world one incredible stop at a time!
Safe travels, and see you on the road.
