How to Reduce Your Motorhome Insurance Excess

Understanding Your Excess

Your excess is the amount you pay towards any claim. If you have a $500 excess and make a claim costing $3,000, you pay $500 and the insurer pays $2,500. A higher excess means lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs if you claim. Finding the right balance is key.

Strategy 1: Choose a Higher Voluntary Excess

Increasing your voluntary excess to $750 or $1,000 can lower your annual premium significantly — sometimes by 10-20%. This only makes sense if you're confident you won't need to claim. If you're a careful driver with a good claims history, this could save money overall.

Strategy 2: Install Security Systems

GPS tracking systems, alarm systems, and immobilizers reduce the risk of theft. Many insurers offer premium discounts of 5-15% for proven security measures. A $150-300 GPS tracker that cuts your premium by $50-100 annually pays for itself within a few years.

Strategy 3: Maintain an Excellent Driving Record

No claims over 3-5 years typically qualifies you for a no-claims discount. This is one of the biggest premium reducers available. Avoid accidents and claims to keep premiums low and potentially reduce your excess.

Strategy 4: Multi-Policy Bundling

Bundling your motorhome insurance with home or car insurance often saves 5-15% on premiums. These savings accumulate across all your policies.

Strategy 5: Improve Storage Security

Storing your motorhome in a locked garage or secure compound reduces theft risk. Some insurers offer discounts for secure storage, potentially reducing your excess or premiums.

Strategy 6: Regular Maintenance

Keeping your motorhome well-maintained demonstrates care. Some insurers reward this with better terms or lower excess requirements.

The Balance

Choose an excess level you can comfortably afford if you need to claim. Don't choose a high excess just to save premium if it means you couldn't afford to pay it. The goal is protecting yourself financially while managing costs.