Member Story: What Got Stolen, What Got Replaced, and What Didn’t, Inside Our Claim Process After a Dodgy Stopover

You know that feeling when you think, “It’ll be fine, just a quick stopover”? That was us. And it turned into one of the most expensive breakfasts we’ve ever had.

The Setup

We’d just finished an amazing weekend at a festival. The plan was simple: drive halfway home, pull into a quiet layby, and get some rest. It seemed safe enough that other vans were parked up, and we were shattered.

The next morning, we locked the van and decided to stretch our legs with a walk to the nearest village for breakfast. It was a sunny day, and we didn’t think twice about leaving the van for an hour.

The Shock

When we got back, the van was gone. Completely gone. At first, I thought we’d walked to the wrong spot. But no our pride and joy had been stolen.

The Claim Process: What Got Covered (and What Didn’t)

We called the police, then the insurer. Here’s what happened:

  • The van was covered. After a few weeks, the claim was settled, and we got the market value.
  • The contents? Not a penny. Our policy didn’t include personal belongings or contents cover.

What we lost:

  • A foldable bike
  • BBQ
  • Sat nav
  • Entertainment kit (speakers, projector)
  • Laptop
  • Camping table and chairs
  • Bedding and soft furnishing
  • Our clothes ! 

Total value? upwards of £3,300

What I Wish I’d Known

  1. Contents cover isn’t always standard. Most campervan policies only cover fixed items.
  2. Personal belongings cover matters. If you travel with gadgets, bikes, or camping gear, check your policy.
  3. Security requirements are strict. Some insurers require alarms, trackers, or steering locks for theft claims. Parking at approved spots !

The Lesson

We thought we were covered. We weren’t and it cost us thousands. If you’re heading to festivals or planning overnight stops, make sure your policy includes:

Contents and personal belongings cover

Festival and stopover protection

Advice on security upgrades for discounts

 

https://www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/introducer/motor?int=11089

 

You can also get another discounted quote form Adrian Flux too. Adrian Flux are happy to offer all members of the Campervan Festival up to 15% discount off their insurance quotations. We have a professional and friendly dedicated owners club team

that will be happy to assist you with your quotations. Give the team a call on 03443 819969

and mention Campervan Festival Guide to receive your discount.

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