A recent survey conducted among American leisure travelers indicates that 45 million Americans are preparing for RV trips this summer. Of these, 18 million plan to embark on RV adventures during the Memorial Day weekend, which marks the unofficial beginning of the summer travel season.
Karen Redfern, Chief Marketing Officer of Go RVing, commented that RV travel offers a combination of freedom, adventure, and value. With the rising costs of traditional travel, many Americans find RVing a budget-friendly alternative for exploring the country and creating memorable experiences.
Respondents of the survey identified several motivations for choosing RV travel. The love of road trips and the freedom to explore at one’s own pace remains a significant factor for many RV enthusiasts. Additionally, RVs provide the comfort and convenience of home, including beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, which can be brought along on the journey. Many respondents have positive past experiences with RV travel and wish to recreate those memories. The opportunity to connect with nature and explore scenic destinations also appeals to many RVers. Furthermore, RV travel can be a cost-effective option, particularly for families or groups, as it eliminates the need for expensive hotel accommodations and restaurant meals.
The survey also explored the preferred travel distances for RV trips. It found that 52% of RVers are planning trips between four and seven hours from home, showing a preference for regional exploration. Additionally, 33% are planning shorter getaways, with at least one RV trip within three hours of their residence.
The popularity of RV travel is not limited to the summer months. The survey revealed that 50% of leisure travelers are interested in taking an RV trip within the next year, suggesting sustained interest in RV travel throughout the year.
The survey, commissioned by the RV Industry Association and conducted by Cairn Consulting, included responses from 1,709 leisure travelers, defined as U.S. residents who have taken a leisure trip in the past 12 months. The survey results have a margin of error of +/- 2.74 percentage points.