Exploring Ontario by road is one of the best ways to take in the province’s stunning natural beauty and enjoy the freedom of the open road. Whether you’re camping in Algonquin Park, road-tripping along the Trans-Canada Highway, or spending weekends at a lakeside trailer park, recreational vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel.
However, with that freedom comes responsibility, especially when it comes to protecting your investment. RV and travel trailer insurance in Ontario can help safeguard you, your vehicle, and your belongings against a wide range of potential risks. Here’s everything you need to know about RV and travel trailer insurance coverage options, costs, and legal requirements in Ontario.
What is a travel trailer?
A travel trailer is towed by your vehicle or a camper that is transported on the bed of your truck. By definition, a travel trailer is an RV that is not motorized. For this reason, it is not legally required to have its own auto insurance policy i.e. you are not obligated to insure your travel trailer.
Three categories of RV insurance coverage
- RV’s & Motorhomes – There are three classes: A, B, and C. They are the motorized recreational vehicles that can be driven to your intended destinations.
- Trailers – These are non-motorized and include fifth wheels, travel trailers, truck campers and tent trailers.
- Park Trailer Models – These are only on the road during the initial move to the RV park or other rented pad location, and are used only as a recreational home.
Do You Need Insurance for a Travel Trailer in Ontario?
Legally, a travel trailer does not require its own insurance policy while being towed in Ontario. When attached to your insured vehicle, the trailer is covered under your auto insurance’s liability portion. However, this coverage is very limited and does not extend to:
- Physical damage to the trailer itself
- Contents inside the trailer
- Liability when the trailer is parked and detached
For full protection, purchasing a separate travel trailer insurance policy is strongly recommended.
What Does RV and Travel Trailer Insurance Cover?
RV and trailer insurance policies in Ontario are customizable and can include a wide range of protections:
1. Third-Party Liability
Covers injuries to others or damage to someone else’s property if you’re responsible for an accident involving your trailer—especially important when your trailer is parked and not attached to a vehicle.
2. Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your trailer if it’s damaged in an accident with another vehicle or object.
3. Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision events like:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Fire
- Wind or hail damage
- Falling objects (e.g., tree branches)
- Animal collisions
4. Contents Insurance
Protects personal belongings stored in your trailer. This is particularly useful for full-time RVers or those who travel with electronics, camping gear, or other valuables.
5. Emergency Expense Coverage
Covers temporary lodging, meals, or transportation if your RV or trailer becomes unusable during a trip.
6. Roadside Assistance
Optional coverage for towing, battery boosts, flat tire service, and fuel delivery while on the road.
Types of travel trailers covered
Travel trailer insurance is similar to automobile insurance, but is more comprehensive and specialized to protect the following vehicles:
- Fifth-wheels
- Pop-up campers
- Stationary travel trailers
- Park model travel trailers
- Truck-mounted campers
- Hybrid travel trailers
How Your Auto Policy Applies to Your Trailer
While being towed, your auto policy provides limited protection for your trailer:
- Liability coverage extends to the trailer as if it were part of the towing vehicle.
- Accident benefits and uninsured automobile coverage also apply.
- Direct compensation – property damage (DCPD) only applies if the trailer is owned by you and not designed for habitation or commercial use.
Important: No Physical Damage Coverage
Your standard car insurance does not cover physical damage to the trailer itself. If your trailer is damaged in an accident or vandalized while parked, you’ll be paying out-of-pocket unless you’ve purchased additional trailer insurance.
Is a Travel Trailer Legal Without Insurance?
Yes, your travel trailer is road legal in Ontario as long as it is:
- Towed by a vehicle that is insured and registered
- Properly attached with a roadworthy hitch
- Equipped with working brake lights, indicators, and safety features
However, this only ensures basic legal compliance. For full financial protection, a separate trailer insurance policy is advisable.
Are Trailer Contents Covered?
Typically, the contents inside your trailer are not covered under your car insurance. Depending on your home insurance policy, you may have some protection while your trailer is on your property. But this coverage is limited and could reduce your overall home insurance protection in the event of a claim.
For high-value or frequently used trailers, adding contents coverage to your RV insurance policy ensures your belongings are covered no matter where you travel.
How Much Does Travel Trailer Insurance Cost in Ontario?
The cost of RV or travel trailer insurance varies based on several factors:
- Trailer type and value
- How often you use it
- Where it’s stored
- Your driving history
- Coverage limits and deductibles
Example Premiums:
- A travel trailer worth $30,000 might cost around $46/month
- A premium travel trailer worth $100,000 could cost about $161/month
These rates are estimates. Your actual premium will depend on the insurer and your individual circumstances.
Do I Need a Safety Certificate for My Trailer?
As of July 1, 2019, Ontario regulations changed. Personal-use trailers are now exempt from the annual safety inspection requirement (previously marked with a yellow safety sticker). However, commercial trailers still require annual inspections.
That said, you should always ensure your trailer is mechanically safe and roadworthy before any trip.
Should You Get Separate Travel Trailer Insurance?
If you’re investing thousands of dollars into a trailer—and using it often—a dedicated insurance policy provides peace of mind. It protects:
- The trailer itself from damage
- Your belongings inside
- You from liability if someone gets hurt or their property is damaged
- Your travel plans from costly interruptions
Protect Your Adventure with isure
Whether you’re a weekend camper or a full-time RV traveler, having the right RV or travel trailer insurance ensures you’re protected from unexpected setbacks. At isure, our expert brokers can help you build a customized insurance policy that fits your vehicle, lifestyle, and budget.
Contact an isure representative today to learn more about RV and trailer insurance in Ontario and get a quote for your next adventure.
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