Most car insurance policies will cover you for third party liability when towing a caravan but it is well worth checking first to make sure.

However this is not a suitable option for most of us as if anything happens other than third party damage you could be out of pocket to the tune of hundreds if not thousands of pounds.

Some things to consider before purchasing your insurance:

Make sure you accurately state the replacement value of your caravan especially with renewals, under value and you could lose out, over value and you can pay too much. Also consider your specific requirements for the caravan.

For what use do you intend using your caravan? UK only, UK and Europe, Permanently sited.

If you plan to take your caravan abroad make sure the countries you intend travelling through are covered (Not all are). Some policies are also restrictive on the number of days you can be abroad (normally 30).

Does the policy offer a replacement as new policy? Whereby a new or similar caravan will be provided in the event your caravan is stolen or written off. The premium may be a little more expensive but could be worth it.Consider your contents cover for personal items and equipment. Some items may be covered with your household insurance.

Check to see if you have liability cover and it's legal fee's are covered.

Due to the increasing popularity of caravan theft you will need to fully comply with the security specifications within the terms and conditions. For example some policies require two wheel clamps and a hitch lock as a minimum when the caravan is not in use. Failure to comply may result in your insurance being void. The more security you have the cheaper the premium.

Shop around and compare policy details there are some fantastic deals to be found on the web. Do not rely on branded names as often you will find the same or better policies at a fraction of the cost by lesser known insurers.

Also consider you have a 14 day cooloing of period. This is a standard financial right brought in to protect against pressure selling tactics used in the past. If you decide the policy is not right for you cancel and receive your money back. Less any period for which the insurance was active.

When you recieve your policy and terms and conditions read the small print and ensure you have the policy you agreed to.

Always keep the insurance company up to date with any changes or amendment you make to the caravan throughout it's policy.

Helpful Tips:

Caravan thieves will usally choose the caravan with the least protection. So use the best security devices you can afford. Security devices may not prevent your caravan from being stolen but may delay the thieves resulting in them being scared away.

Never leave expensive items on view and always lock your caravan doors and windows when away. You would not do it at home or in the car so don't do it with the caravan.

If your not using your caravan for a while remove all expensive equipment and if possible upholstery. These are often targeted by thieves.

If storing the caravan away from home consider CASSOA-approved facilities as these are highly effective in preventing caravan theft. Load heavy items over the axle to improve stability.

Regularly check the condition and pressure of your caravan tyres. Blowouts are caused by perished or incorrectly inflated tyre's and even if you manage to pull over safely can cause considerable damage to your caravan. It is recomended that the tyre's should be changed every five years.

Chain your water and waste butts, generators etc to the chassis. You would be surprised how many get stolen from under your nose whilst on a site.

The above information although as accurate as possible from reliable internet souces may contain errors it is your responsability to ensure your cover meets your needs.