What You Need to Know Before You Get Trailer or Caravan Insurance

If you’re like many South Africans, you can’t imagine holidays without your caravan or trailer – or both. That’s why we offer comprehensive insurance for caravan and trailers, so you can take your well-deserved break without worrying about who’s looking after your holiday vehicles.

More information about caravan insurance

Caravan owners know there are some truly special places around the country and beyond where only a caravan can take them. While you’re travelling on your next adventure, let us ensure your caravan is covered for various risks. Some of these include:

• Theft

• Hijacking

• Accidents and collisions

• Fire

• Flood

• Third-party damage

• Third-party liability

You can also insure the contents inside your caravan, from the cutlery to the bedding, and all the loose contents in between, for an additional monthly fee. Discover more about Why you need caravan insurance. 

More information about trailer insurance

Does it feel like your family packs the entire house when you go on holiday? If so, you’ll know your trailer makes it possible for you to have a comfortable vacation with the extra storage space. Insurance on trailers covers your vehicle against theft, hijacking, fire, damage caused by acts of nature, like a storm, accident damage, third-party damage, and third-party liability. 

Caravan Insurance benefits

There are many advantages to having caravan insurance with Dialdirect. Some of these valuable benefits include:

• Hail damage cover. You can add hail damage cover to your insurance policy for a small additional monthly fee

• Accessory cover. Your trailer or caravan’s standard accessories are included in your policy cover

• Repair work cover. Dialdirect offers a lifetime guarantee on all repair work undertaken to your caravan or trailer

• Tow assist. If you ever need help towing your caravan or trailer, you can request a tow at the tap of a button with Tow Truck Direct – available exclusively on the Dialdirect app

It’s super easy. Simply register an online profile through our website or app and confirm your risk information, and we’ll give you 500 MB of free data. Also, there’s no need to go out of your way to take your caravan or trailer to an inspection centre. Do it yourself at home with just your phone and an internet connection.

Frequently asked questions about insurance for trailers and caravans

1. What vehicles are classified as caravans and trailers?

A trailer or caravan need should meet the following criteria:

Your caravan or trailer can’t be self-propelled and must be towed by another vehicle to travel on the road. Motorhomes[1], therefore, aren’t covered under our caravan insurance cover. Motorhomes would fall into the vehicle insurance category. 

2. Does a caravan have to be insured?

No. Like car insurance, trailer or caravan insurance in South Africa is not a legal requirement. However, the AA estimates that up to 4,000 caravans are stolen each year[2], not to mention the risk of accidental damage. Caravan towing is a particular problem regarding incurring damage to the vehicle. Dialdirect recommends a comprehensive caravan insurance plan to keep you covered in case of theft or damage.

3. Will trailer or caravan insurance cover the contents inside the vehicle?

No. The Dialdirect caravan and trailer insurance plans won't cover the valuables you keep inside vehicles. However, you can add loose caravan contents to your insurance plan for an additional monthly fee. This will cover belongings, cutlery and all the other bits and pieces that make your caravan as comfortable as your home. You can take out portable possessions insurance if you want to insure your trailer’s contents. 

5. What isn’t covered under caravan or trailer insurance?

You will not be covered if you incur loss or damage while under the influence of alcohol or a banned substance while towing your caravan or trailer. You also need to have a valid driver’s licence. You can only use your caravan and trailer for leisure purposes. That means you can’t take tourists on a cross-country road trip in the caravan. However, it does mean you can help your sister move house with your trailer. Finally, you’re only covered if you use the vehicles in the following countries: South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe.

6. How do I lower my insurance premiums?

We know you’d rather spend your hard-earned money on an awesome holiday than on insurance. So, by making a few changes or by taking some precautions, you can save some save money in the long run. For starters, lower your risk profile by ensuring that the caravan or trailer is secure. Installing a vehicle tracking device raises the odds of recovery if they’re stolen, which can, in turn, lower your premiums. Also, make sure your driving record is good. The longer you stay claim-free, the lower your insurance premiums. 

7. Does your trailer or caravan insurance cover wear and tear?

No. Insurance is made to give you certainty for the things you can’t be certain of, like unforeseen acts of nature or road accidents. So, we don't provide cover when it comes to wear and tear. That’s because a guaranteed amount of wear and tear can be expected on your trailer or caravan. You know the tyre tread will wear, and rubber seals will degrade over time. Maintaining your trailer and caravan is part of the ownership responsibility, and it’s up to you to ensure they remain in good working condition.

H2: Get insurance for caravan or trailer with

Dialdirect

Looking for caravan or trailer insurance quotes before your next holiday? Get yours online with us in just a few minutes. Apply for a caravan or trailer insurance quote online. 

Sources:

[1] CaravanSA: The history of motorhomes in South Africa 

[2] AA: Insuring your home from home 

Disclaimer: Dialdirect Insurance is an authorised FSP insurer. Terms and Conditions online.