The Fort Myers RV Show will be held at the Lee Civic Center on Jan. 25 – 28.
“Attendees can view hundreds of new recreation vehicles of all different types, sizes and prices. It also features about 100 outdoor and camping supply vendors,” said Tom Wegge, president of the Florida RV Trade Association-Region One. “This family-friendly event focuses on the fun, flexibility and affordability RVing provides consumers of all ages. … For years, the Fort Myers RV Show has been the top RV show in Florida and the Southeast simply because of the high-quality products, outstanding displays and competitive prices.”
The 33rd Annual Fort Myers RV Show features 13 dealers from along Florida’s Gulf Coast displaying a large selection of new 2018 RVs of all styles, brands and price ranges, including folding campers, gas and diesel motorhomes, travel trailers, toy haulers, fifth wheels, park models and van campers.
Besides RVs, the show allows attendees the chance to browse close to 100 outdoor and camping vendors displaying equipment and accessories to help outfit RVers or provide information on camping throughout the nation. Items include new towing systems, RV insurance, specialized camping equipment and high-tech makeovers for older RVs. Daily free RV travel seminars also will be offered.
Nationally, the RV industry has a total direct economic output of over $27 billion, according to research done by the RV Industry Association. The most current shipping data indicates RV wholesale deliveries are expected to top 500,000 units for the first time ever, up 17.4 percent from one year ago.
It’s anticipated that 520,700 units will be shipped in 2018.
The industry hit a low point in 2009 when only 165,700 units were shipped. Conventional travel trailers and Class C motorhomes continue as the strongest segments.
For many, RV travel remains an affordable option. PKF Consulting USA performed a vacation cost comparison study for a family of four. It shows that RV trips remain the most affordable means for family travel because of the significant savings on air, hotel and restaurant costs.
For a four-person travel party, the study found savings of 23 to 59 percent; a two-person travel party saved 11 to 46 percent over traditional travel/vacations.
“For the majority of RV buyers, the interest on their purchase is tax deductible since it qualifies as a second home,” said Wegge. “Now is the time to buy since RV prices have never been lower while interest rates remain near historic lows, making the RV lifestyle surprisingly affordable.”
