Camera insurance

Snapped up a shiny new camera? Whether you're a pro or just love a good holiday shot, it's worth knowing how to keep it covered.

This guide breaks down what contents insurance might include, what to check before you take your kit out and about, and when you might need a bit of extra cover.

 Camera resting on wooden floor boards, with polaroid-style printouts scattered around it

You've got a few options. The contents side of most home insurance policies covers your camera as part of your belongings. So if something happens at home, you're likely to be protected.

If your camera's worth a bit more, check your policy's single item limit - that's the maximum they'll pay out for 1 item. You might need to list it separately or add extra cover to make sure the full value's protected.

You could also look into gadget insurance if you want to cover specific pieces of your camera kit (we don't compare that, but it's out there).

Your camera's usually covered for:

  • Theft: if it's stolen from your home
  • Loss: depending on your policy
  • Accidental damage: you might need an add on for this.

Top tip: Always check the details of your policy to see exactly what's included.

It might be! Loads of policies do cover your camera when you're out and about - but not all.

If yours doesn't, you can usually pay a bit extra to add something called personal possessions cover. That'll protect your gear wherever you take it.

There's a few things your policy might not cover, like:

  • Everyday wear and tear: like damage resulting from general use 
  • Cosmetic damage: scratches and nicks won't be covered
  • Negligence: for example, leaving your camera out in plain sight and it gets nicked
  • Mechanical faults: your warranty should help with these, not your insurer

Yes - most policies will cover your gear as long as each item is worth less than your single item limit.

If your kit's creeping over that, you might need specialist high-value cover.

Not sure how much your stuff adds up to? Our contents calculator can help you tot it all up - camera included.

Give it a go today!

Turned your passion into a profession? Nice one.

Just keep in mind that standard contents insurance won't cut it. You'll need business insurance to cover your photography equipment while you're using it for work.

With the right policy, you can get cover that fits your gear and your job.

Some contents insurance covers your camera while you're away, but not all of them do.

If you're not covered, travel insurance can pick up the slack. Just make sure the policy includes cover for personal belongings before you toss it in your hand luggage.

A standard contents insurance policy starts from around £5* a month, but that's without any add-ons.

If you need additional cover - for example, high value contents insurance - this could bump the price up.

Make sure your policy gives you the cover you need to keep your kit safe. Read the policy details carefully so you know exactly what's included before you buy.

Confused.com data Q1 2025.

Compare home insurance quotes

Share this article

Home insurance guides