Are you living in your RV year-round or just hitting the road for weekend adventures across Georgia?
Are you confident your current RV insurance truly covers the risks you face—or could you be dangerously underinsured?
In this article, you’ll discover exactly how full-time and recreational RV insurance differ, how Georgia’s unique weather and legal requirements play into your decision, and which type of coverage will best protect your RV lifestyle.
We’ll explore:
- Georgia’s RV insurance laws and coverage requirements
- Key differences between full-time and recreational RV policies
- Real-world examples of when full-time coverage is essential
- Tips to reduce your insurance costs without sacrificing protection
Georgia RV Insurance Requirements: Know What the Law Demands
If your RV is motorized, Georgia law treats it like any other vehicle—minimum liability insurance is mandatory. Here’s what’s required:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $25,000 per accident
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident (unless formally rejected in writing)
For towable RVs like travel trailers and fifth wheels, separate insurance isn’t legally required—coverage usually extends from the tow vehicle. But relying on that alone leaves big gaps in protection.
Full-Time vs. Recreational RV Insurance: What’s the Real Difference?
Full-Time RV Use
If you live in your RV for 150+ nights a year, insurance carriers consider it your primary residence. Full-time coverage is built to protect both your wheels and your way of life.
Recreational RV Use
If you use your RV for vacations, weekend trips, or seasonal travel, recreational coverage offers more basic, travel-focused protection.
| Coverage Type | Recreational RV | Full-Time RV |
|---|---|---|
| Liability on Road | Standard limits | Enhanced limits |
| Personal Property | Basic coverage | Comprehensive protection |
| Liability When Parked | Limited or none | Full personal liability |
| Emergency Expenses | ~$750 | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Medical Payments | Basic | Extended |
| Loss Assessment | Rarely included | Up to $5,000 |
Why Full-Time RV Insurance Offers Homeowner-Like Protection
If you live in your RV full-time, you’re exposed to risks far beyond highway accidents. Full-time policies mirror homeowners insurance and provide critical protection, including:
1. Personal Liability Coverage
Covers injuries that occur in or around your RV while it’s parked. Think: neighbor trips on your steps or slips in your kitchen.
2. Enhanced Emergency Expenses
Covers hotel stays, meals, and transportation if your RV becomes unlivable. Limits can reach up to $5,000 for full-time policies.
3. Loss Assessment Coverage
Protects you from shared repair costs if common areas in your RV park are damaged (e.g., from a storm).
4. Medical Payments Coverage
Pays for injuries that happen around your RV—regardless of who’s at fault.
Estimated Annual Cost for Full-Time Coverage in Georgia:
$1,500–$3,000, depending on your RV type and insurance provider.
What Recreational RV Insurance Really Covers
Recreational policies focus on road safety and basic asset protection, ideal for part-time RVers.
Core Coverage Includes:
- Liability Insurance (state minimum for motorhomes)
- Collision and Comprehensive: For accidents, theft, vandalism, and weather damage
- Basic Personal Property: Covers belongings during a covered event
- Vacation Liability (optional): Protection while parked at campgrounds
Estimated Annual Cost for Recreational Coverage:
Travel Trailers: $180–$600
Motorhomes: $504–$1,500
Class A Motorhomes: $1,020–$3,000
Unique Georgia Risks That Shape Your Coverage Needs
1. Severe Weather
From tornadoes and hail in the north to hurricanes and floods on the coast, Georgia RVers face serious natural threats. Make sure your comprehensive coverage includes:
- Hail damage
- Flooding
- Wind from hurricanes or tornadoes
2. Campsite Liability
With dozens of state parks and RV resorts, your liability exposure increases when camping. Vacation liability covers injuries or damage caused while parked—even from things like:
- Trip hazards on your site
- Smoke damage from your campfire
- Kids getting injured near your setup
3. Theft and Property Protection
Valuables inside your RV—from TVs to camping gear—need strong personal property coverage. Many policies protect items within 25 feet of your RV, including exterior equipment.
4. Remote Breakdowns
Georgia’s rural roads and isolated campgrounds mean emergency expense coverage is vital.
Recreational policies offer ~$750; full-timers can upgrade to $2,000–$5,000.
How Coverage Changes by RV Type
Motorized RVs (Class A, B, C Motorhomes)
- Required: State minimum liability
- Recommended: Add comprehensive, collision, and enhanced liability
- Full-Time Add-Ons: Personal liability, emergency expenses, and loss assessment
Towable RVs (Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels)
- Required: Liability comes from the tow vehicle
- Recommended: Separate policy for damage and theft
- Full-Time Add-Ons: Same as motorized, if it’s your main residence
Which RV Insurance Is Right for You?
Go Full-Time If You…
- Spend 150+ nights per year in your RV
- Use your RV as a permanent or primary residence
- Need coverage when parked
- Travel full-time and visit RV parks regularly
Stick with Recreational If You…
- Only use your RV occasionally
- Have a home elsewhere as your primary residence
- Want basic road travel protection
- Are budget-conscious but still want essential coverage
Cost-Saving Tips for Georgia RVers
No matter your insurance type, you can cut costs with smart strategies:
- Bundle policies (auto, home, RV) for multi-policy discounts
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Store your RV securely when not in use
- Take RV safety or defensive driving courses
- Raise your deductible for lower premiums
Final Thoughts: Don’t Gamble on Coverage—Choose Based on How You RV
Whether you’re a full-time road warrior or a weekend explorer, your insurance needs are very different. Georgia’s weather, terrain, and travel patterns demand protection tailored to how and where you use your RV.
Full-time RV insurance delivers broad protection—including personal liability, emergency expenses, and RV park coverage—essential if your RV is your home. Yes, it costs more, but so does losing everything in a single storm.
Recreational coverage works well for occasional users who prioritize road travel protection. Add vacation liability to cover campsite incidents and you’ll be well protected without overpaying.
At the end of the day, the best policy is the one aligned with your lifestyle and risk tolerance. Now that you understand the key differences, your next step is to speak with an RV insurance specialist who understands the Georgia market. They’ll help you find a plan that fits your usage, travel plans, and budget.
