The RVIA says that according to a recent Ipsos research poll examining consumer travel choices in light of COVID-19, RV travel and camping finished on top of the list.
One in four respondents said they plan to take some kind of “RV-related action” in the next 12 months.
The poll found that while overall interest in travel remains tepid among many consumers, RV camping leads in consumer confidence and interest across all age groups, with the highest rate of interest among those 18-34 years old.
Additionally, 20 percent of U.S. respondents are more interested in RVs as a recreational travel option in the aftermath of COVID-19 – the highest of any option tested – over car/tent; cruise; car/rental stay; or air/rental stay. Fifty-one percent of those that plan to take any RV trip this year reported that current health concerns increased their interest in RV camping – much higher than any of the other travel options.
Drilling deeper into those who referenced taking an “RV action,” 18 percent plan to take an RV trip; another 18 percent plan to research more RV information online; 13 percent plan to purchase an RV; 12 percent will visit an RV dealer; and 11 percent plan to rent an RV.
“As states across America continue to open up, more and more consumers are looking for ways to get outdoors and recreate responsibly,” said RV Industry Association president Craig Kirby. “RVs provide a great way for consumers to enjoy vacations with their families, while still adhering to social distancing policies that are likely to remain in place in some fashion moving forward. As we approach the start of summer, the RV industry is seeing both very strong retail traffic as well as sales, especially with first time buyers. There is such a variety of RV products that there truly is an RV for every consumer at every price point.”