RV Market Momentum Builds Toward 2026
RVDA reports balanced inventories, improving dealer sentiment and potential rate relief driving cautious optimism for 2026.
Retail sales activity at the start of the fourth quarter of 2025 has fueled what could be described as “tempered optimism” for sales prospects in 2026. While inventory management and the realities of the winter sales period set in, dealer sentiment regarding current conditions and the long-term outlook is improving, according to the monthly RV dealer surveys conducted by the investment firm R.W. Baird in partnership with the RV Dealers Association (RVDA).
Many dealers anticipate that lower interest rates and a more stable consumer backdrop could provide the jolt needed for renewed growth. Dealers reported balanced inventory comfort levels, with a clear preference to carry leaner levels through the lower volume months. Most respondents said inventory was “about right” for both travel trailers and motorhomes. As one dealer noted, “inventory levels [are] getting in line.”
Retail Trends & Outlook
Looking ahead, several factors could support stronger consumer demand in 2026:
- Lower interest rates
- Reduced tariff uncertainty
- Potential tax refund tailwinds
Economists generally view large tax refunds as a short-term boost to discretionary spending, sometimes acting like a mini stimulus for retail and services. While many households use refunds to cover necessities or pay down debt, unusually large refunds often drive sales activity in discretionary spending categories — including RVs, boats and powersports.
Taking Time To Train
Service and parts remain critical profit centers for RV dealerships and help keep revenue flowing during fluctuations in new and used unit sales. Fixed operations (service, parts and accessories) are the backbone of dealership profitability, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center’s online courses and certification programs are available to help develop top performers in these consumer-facing roles at the dealership. The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) continues to provide accessible online and in person training for RV service techs.
Financing and insurance (F&I) programs are also essential profit drivers for RV dealerships and critical to overall financial health and customer satisfaction. As we saw during the recent RVDA Convention/Expo, insurance agents, lenders and trainers are available and eager to help improve this area of dealership operations.
As we look ahead, dealers are balancing lean inventories, disciplined operations and cautious optimism with an eye toward the opportunities that 2026 may bring. With fixed operations and F&I programs providing steady profitability, and macroeconomic factors such as lower interest rates and potential tax refund boosts on the horizon, the industry is positioning itself for renewed momentum. While challenges tied to affordability and consumer confidence remain, dealers are demonstrating resilience and readiness, laying the groundwork for a brighter, more stable RV market.
