Classic Campervan Insurance

A classic camper policy covers older campers and motorhomes kept for pleasure, often with options such as agreed value and an annual mileage limit. It can suit split-screen and bay-window VW campers, early coachbuilts and other older vans, but each insurer sets its own age and use rules.

Is a classic camper policy right for your van?

A classic policy works best for a van that is cherished and used lightly. Use this table to see where yours fits.

Agreed value or market value for an older camper

Agreed value means you and the insurer fix the payout for a total loss before cover starts. That matters on an older camper, because a well restored example can be hard to price from general sales data.

Insurers may ask for a recent valuation, photos or a club valuation before they agree a figure. Review it at each renewal, and straight after any major restoration work.

MOT and vehicle tax rules for historic campers

A camper built or first registered more than 40 years ago does not need an MOT if no substantial changes have been made. Examples include a replacement chassis, body, axles or an engine that changes how it works (GOV.UK historic vehicles).

You must still keep it roadworthy. GOV.UK says using a vehicle in a dangerous condition can lead to a fine of up to £2,500 and 3 penalty points.

For vehicle tax, a vehicle built before 1 January 1986 can stop paying from 1 April 2026, but you must apply to move it into the historic tax class. Before buying, check a camper’s past test results with the GOV.UK MOT history checker.

Mileage limits, club membership and storage for classic vans

Many classic policies come with an annual mileage limit, so pick a figure that covers your trips with some room to spare. Some insurers also ask whether you belong to an owners’ club, and may take it into account.

Storage matters on an older camper because parts and panels can be hard to replace. A locked garage or a secure storage site will usually be priced differently from a street space, so give the details accurately.

Older VW campers, imports and modified classics

Split-screen, bay-window and T25 campers

Give the exact model and year, and say whether the camper interior is original to the vehicle or was fitted later. Tell the insurer if the roof is a pop-top or a fixed high-top, and list any replacement panels.

Left-hand drive and imported classics

An imported camper needs vehicle approval and DVLA registration, and you must insure it before you drive it on UK roads (GOV.UK importing vehicles). Left-hand drive models may be referred to specialist underwriters.

Upgraded classics

Disc brakes, power steering, an engine swap or modern suspension all need declaring. Large changes can affect the van’s value and may also mean it no longer qualifies for the MOT exemption.

Before you get a classic camper quote

Collect these first:

• Year built and date first registered
• The V5C and registration number
• A recent valuation and photos inside and out
• A list of restoration work and upgrades
• Where it is kept and what security is fitted
• An estimate of annual mileage
• Owners’ club membership details, if you have them
• Details of any other vehicle you use for everyday driving

Tiger.co.uk compares cover for older campers from a panel of 10+ motorhome and camper providers with one form. If you also own a classic car, see classic car insurance, and you may want breakdown cover before a long trip. Owners of a home-built camper should read our page on converted campervans, and the motorhome cover page covers licences and European trips.

What counts as a classic campervan for insurance?

Each insurer sets its own rule, often based on the vehicle’s age and how it is used. A camper that counts as classic with one insurer may not with another, so ask how they define it and what use limits apply.

Does a classic VW camper need an MOT?

Not if it was built or first registered more than 40 years ago and has had no substantial changes. Examples are a replacement chassis, body, axles or engine that changes how it works. It must still be kept roadworthy, according to GOV.UK.

Ready to compare? Get classic camper quotes with Tiger.co.uk and tell us about your van, its value and how you use it. Policies vary, so check the mileage limit, use and valuation terms on each quote before you buy. For newer vans, see campervan cover.