Category: RV News

RV industry advocate Go RVing found that RV owner profiles are averaging younger in a 2025 survey, reports RVIA. However, also of note, the number of households that own an RV fell sharply since the last survey, done in 2021. The new total is 8.1 million households, down from 11.2 million households reported in 2021. The number also fell below the 2011 number, 8.9 million households. 

Go RVing says the 8.1 million figure better aligns with industry data, including wholesale RV shipments and retail registrations. In addition, 16.9 million households expressed a strong interest in buying an RV in the next five years.

 

RV Owner Age Decreases, Demographics Diversify

The study found the median age of RV owners to be 49, down from 53 just four years ago. RVers ages 35 to 54 increased to 46 percent of all owners, driving down the overall median age. Concurrently, more non-Caucasian consumers bought RVs. Caucasians comprised 85 percent of RV owners in the initial 2021 study. Now, this group represents 73 pervent of RV owners 

Go RVing Chief Marketing Officer Karen Redfern says the report points to the increasing diversity of RVer demographics. 

“As the RV industry continues to evolve, it is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing interest in outdoor recreation, flexible work arrangements and experiential travel,” Redfern notes. “By embracing innovation, targeting new audiences, and providing exceptional customer experiences, the RV industry can drive sustained growth and solidify its place as a cornerstone of the American lifestyle.”

 

Future RV Owner Profiles Are Even Younger

The Go RVing study added to its RV owner profiles by building an “intender” profile. Intenders are consumers among the 16.9 million households saying they are likely to buy an RV in the next five years. Among the intender profiles, many are also currently RV owners.

The median age of intenders is 42, with 19 percent of intenders ages 18 to 34, Fifty-three precent range from ages 35 to 54. A third of Intenders are young families, defined as consumers under 45 with children under 18.

Among growth audiences — defined as consumers identifying as African American, Hispanic, Asian American, and/or LGBTQIA+ — intenders are even younger. Only 15 percent of growth audience intenders are over 55, compared with 39 percent of current RV owners and 27 percent of all intenders.

 

Less Income Means More Research

Growth audience intenders also have lower household incomes and are likelier to live in multigenerational households. A total of 12 percent said they lived with parents, compared with eight percent of all intenders and four percent of current RV owners.

Consumers continue to spend more time researching their next RV purchase before visiting the dealership. The study found dealership and manufacturer websites remained the most popular online research sources.

Over half of current RV owners (51 percent) said visiting the dealership was their best experiential resource, followed by conversations with friends and family (42 percent) and RV/outdoor consumer shows (33 percent).

 

An Increase in Annual RV Trips and Mileage

RV owners today use their vehicles more than four years ago. RVers reported using their RVs at least 30 days a year, up 50 percent from the 20 days reported in the initial study’s findings. On average, owners make nine annual RV trips, traveling an average of 250 miles.

RV rental use continued to increase in the past four years. The new study found one-fifth of RV owners said they rented an RV, while an additional 32 percent said they considered renting but had not yet rented.

The report sought insight into the motivations for choosing RV ownership. Most RVers said they wanted to spend time in nature (54 percent) or unwind and relax (52 percent). Nearly half (49 percent) said they enjoyed the ability to bring pets on their RVing trips.

As younger consumers own RVs, the vehicles have become a means to accommodate remote work and alternative lifestyles. Nearly a quarter of RVers (22 percent) said someone in their home works remotely. Among remote workers, 54 precent said their work has been done from an RV.

The survey, conducted by Ipsos, polled 5,500 consumers. Go RVing said the new study significantly changed survey methodology to count RV-owning households more accurately. 

The Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (aka EXPLORE Act) has become law and is intended to do a lot for outdoor recreation, including RVers. The act, signed January 4, 2025, is slated to spend $1.2 trillion on outdoor recreation. This includes monies  intended to improve camping, increase access to public lands, expand camping seasons in some places, and upgrade connectivity in many rural places.

The legislation intends to modernize government systems to make access to parks more efficient. Encouragingly, it also unifies agencies within the government to reduce the number of silos of information and action. 

 

Bill Passed as a Rare Bipartisan Achievement

In contrast to so many other issues, but similar to the America the Beautiful Act, the EXPLORE Act received by bipartisan support in Congress.

“The unanimous passage of the Outdoors for All Act in the Senate marks a historic milestone in expanding outdoor access for all Americans,” says Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land. “As one of the final acts of Congress in 2024, this bipartisan achievement underscores the vital role parks and green spaces play in uniting us. For the first time, this legislation ensures that tribal nations can directly access funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, while also providing essential resources to underserved urban communities.”

“This is a victory for tribal communities who have long sought equitable access to outdoor recreation funding,” says Dr. Ken Lucero, Tribal and Indigenous Lands Director for Trust for Public Land. “Including tribes as eligible recipients ensures their voices and priorities are recognized and supported in the preservation and creation of outdoor spaces.”

EXPLORE Act Passage Celebrated by Outdoor Recreation Communities

According to the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, the act doesn’t actually cost additional funds or promote use of spaces that could harm those natural resources. The act was almost universally praised by a variety of watchdog groups and was passed with bipartisan support. 

The Wilderness Society states that the legislation streamlines and improves the permitting process for outfitters and organized groups so they can spend more time doing what they do best—helping others enjoy and recreate on public lands. Another celebrant is the RV Industry Association (RVIA), an advocate for the RV lifestyle, which stated that the ruling would grow local jobs, includes access to public lands, responsibly extend federal land shoulder seasons to provide more access to those lands and bring together agencies to better manage those lands. 

 

What the EXPLORE Act Could Mean for RVers

Improved Connectivity Could Be Coming

One aspect of the ruling is to bring better internet connectivity to public lands. While some have criticized this, the result is potentially good. For example, having greater connectivity will allow visitors to update reservations, create new reservations without having to contact park employees and volunteers. It could also improve access to emergency services. This connectivity is primarily in already-developed areas like lodges and campgrounds. 

Jason Epperson of RVMiles in his YouTube news video noted that parks already have radio transmission towers. Epperson theorized that replacing these with less visually offensive cell towers could increase connectivity and reduce visual blight. 

 

Projected Impact on the Outdoor Recreation Economy

The passage of the EXPLORE Act is also a victory for the outdoor recreation economy, now valued at $1.1 trillion annually and supporting 5 million jobs. By investing in trails, parks, and infrastructure, the legislation fosters social connection and resilience while ensuring the outdoors is open to everyone.

The bill is actually a package of a dozen or so public lands-related pieces of legislation, and it has broad support from both democrats and republicans and a wide variety of public lands stakeholders including environmental groups like the Sierra Club and the National Wildlife Federation, and business interests like the RV Industry Association and the Outdoor Hospitality Industry Association. Supporters say it will grow rural jobs, increase access to public lands, provide gateway communities assistance for outdoor recreation businesses and modernize facilities.

The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to establish ten long-distance national bike trails, at least 80 miles each in length, using trails and roads already in existence, and identify ten more that could become national bike trails in the future.

The bill sets a unified federal policy for recreational climbing, including placing and maintaining fixed anchors for recreational climbing and allowing them in federally protected wilderness areas.

 

Less Restriction of Filming on Public Lands

The bill will drop permit requirements for people filming on public lands as long as that filming is “merely incidental to, or documenting, an activity or event that is allowed or authorized at the System unit, whether any individual receives compensation.” 

There is a provision for permits for groups of six or more who are filming or photographing, but they cannot charge for these permits and the permitting system has have an automated system. 

Groups of more than eight, groups using more than basic hand-held equipment and tripods, and groups who are impeding and intruding on the experience of others will still need to apply for and obtain a permit and pay a fee.

 

Cleaning Up Maps, Bathroom, Accessibility, and More

The EXPLORE Act requires the Bureau of Land Management and US Forest Service to provide and update maps showing motorized and non-motorized use areas. Additionally, iy requires the agencies to support their gateway communities — the towns at the entrance to popular areas like national park s— and provide technical and financial assistance to businesses through low-interest business loan programs.

The bill allows for land management agencies to create cooperative cost-saving management agreements. For instance, a forest service campground on the edge of a national park could be run by the National Park Service to create efficiency. A state park can agree to work with a federal park to share employees or facilities, according to an article on RVMiles.com. 

The new legislation requires secretaries to seek to increase and improve parking and restroom facilities.The secretaries also must establish new wheelchair-accessible trails and do an inventory of trails to provide accessibility data, including measuring each trail’s average and minimum tread width and slope. The EXPLORE Act supports veterans by requiring the agencies to assist with programs and jobs focused on continuing national service and develop strategies for encouraging outdoor recreation by veterans and service members.

 

Modernizing Permits and Passes

The bill dramatically cleans up and modernizes the permit process for public lands tour operators and guides, events, and special activities. Those activities still require permits, but much of the red tape in the application process will be removed, saving both the government and the applicants time and money.

The bill establishes a digital version of the America The Beautiful public lands passes that allow access to most federal lands for one fee. Starting in 2026, you will be able to purchase it online and have immediate access. It also allows federal agencies to partner with state and local agencies to allow people to buy multiple passes in one transaction. (Imagine you buy your state park pass when you renew your license plates, as several states do — you could theoretically add a federal pass simultaneously.)

The EXPLORE Act requires all of the federal land agencies to look at seasonal closures of parks, campgrounds, marinas, etc, and, where feasible, reduce the length of time those facilities close, allowing for more access in the shoulder seasons.

California has banned the sale of single-use, one-pound propane tanks. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1280 into law, and the new regulation went into effect on January 1, 2025. The legislation aims to reduce the millions of disposable propane cylinders that end up in landfills, parks, and waterways each year. Beginning January 1, 2028, only refillable propane canisters and cylinders will be offered for sale within the California market. 

The ban targets the commonly-used green, nonrefillable propane canisters that are popular among campers, tailgaters, and outdoor enthusiasts. These propane bottles fuel portable stoves, heaters, and lanterns. State officials argue that these single-use tanks create significant environmental hazards and are difficult to properly recycle.

 

Enforcement and Penalties

Retailers who are found to be selling single-use propane tanks in violation of the new law may face fines or other penalties. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and local agencies will oversee enforcement, ensuring businesses comply with the regulation.

California joins a growing number of cities and states pushing for more sustainable outdoor recreation practices. With the ban in place, officials hope to see a drastic reduction in hazardous waste. At the same time, the regulation promotes greener alternatives for camping and outdoor cooking.

 

Environmental Waste and Risk Reduction

The National Propane Gas Association states that California is the largest customer for natural gas and propane. Annual sales stand at 535 million gallons. All of which makes sense because of the unique camping opportunities in the state. According to CalRecycle, California discards over four million single-use propane tanks annually. Many of these are improperly disposed of. This leads to potential fire hazards, toxic leaks, and increased landfill waste. The metal containers often end-up in recycling bins. However, because they contain flammable gas residue, they pose risks at waste processing facilities.

“These small canisters are a big problem,” say Jared Blumenfeld, Secretary of California’s Environmental Protection Agency. “They litter our parks and beaches. And they’re dangerous to handle. We need to move toward sustainable alternatives.”

So, as California bans propane bottles of this variety, the expectation is that the regulation will do more than reduce waste. It could also increase waste disposal safety.

 

California Bans Single-Use Propane Bottles — Not the Use of Propane

The state is encouraging consumers to switch to refillable propane canisters. These are already available at outdoor retailers and some gas stations. Refillable options enable campers to use them multiple times, significantly reducing waste and long-term costs. Therefore, when California bans propane bottles that cannot be reused, it does not constitute a ban on the use of propane itself.

While environmental groups have praised the move, some outdoor recreation businesses have raised concerns about the transition. One camping gear retailer in Los Angeles noted that, “Many customers rely on disposable tanks for convenience, and refilling options aren’t as widely available yet.”

Manufacturers are now working to expand the availability of reusable propane tanks and exchange programs. This move reflects one similar to the existing system for larger barbecue-sized propane tanks.

Some RVers advocate the refilling of the existing one-pound propane tanks. However, safety advocates discourage this. They note that the single-use tanks are not intended to be refilled. The warning label states that the tanks can rust from the inside out and cause a failure. Refillable tanks, on the other hand, are built differently. Fortunately, with the ban in place, these should become widely available by the time the enforcement of the law begins to take place in 2028. Refillable tanks already exist now. 

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is reporting a 6.6 percent increase in total RV shipments for 2024. December alone saw a 7.6 percent increase in RV with shipments, with 1,631 more units shipped than the previous year. Leading these RV shipments were towable RVs, particularly traditional travel trailers. This RV type showed an 11.4 percent increase in December. However, motorhomes bucked the trend with a 17.7 percent drop in shipments the final month of the year.

In a press release from the RVIA CEO Craig Kirby states, “The RV industry showed resilience and an upward trajectory in 2024.” The organization also predicts that the trend will continue into 2025. Among additional areas of industry growth, park model RVs saw five percent year-over-year growth.  

The RVIA is an organization that promotes and supports the RV industry with lobbying efforts and marketing resources. They also support the RV Technical Institute, a training system for RV technicians and provide insight into the industry. 

The organization states that the industry accounts for $140 billion dollars in economic output with 680,000 jobs representing 2.2 percent of the national gross domestic product. 

Since 2022 Lippert, the largest supplier of parts to the RV industry, has provided classes specifically for RV owners who want to learn more about maintaining and repairing their RVs. This year, the Lippert RV Owner’s School has scheduled four class sessions avaialble at two locations. The first session starts in Dallas, Texas on April 8. The three following sessions are through their Lippert Technical Institute in Mishawaka, Indiana from June 24 through August 19, 2025.

The objective of the classes is to enable RV owners to learn more about the function of systems on their RVs and be able to make repairs themselves. Within the framework of the course are RV owner classes on axles, slide-room systems, and more. Understanding how these systems work and what to do if they don’t can save an owner a lot of time and money. 

 

 

Web-Based RV Owner Classes Also Available 

In addition to the in-person RV owner classes, Lippert Technical Institute has a web-based portal. This portal includes instructional material and videos directly from the company to help RV owners on the road with DIY repairs. 

Prices for the 2025 classes have not been established yet, but the company’s website has details. Those interested may also request to receive information via an email subscription. Lippert also has a YouTube channel that covers many of the topics owners inquire about.

In addition to training for owners, the Lippert Technical Institute provides training for technicians. Their course provide certifications in a number of areas. (Personally, this reporter had the privilege of going through the classes which taught a lot about the RV and how to properly maintain it. Completing the course definitely makes one better aware of what to do if things don’t function properly which offers a better RV experience. For those who want to expand their knowledge, this presents an great opportunity to do so.)

Quartzsite, Arizona is a tiny town most of the year. But each new year, it suddenly swells as an estimated quarter million — or more — RVs raise the town’s population. This flood of campers come for a unique event: the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show. Held in a giant tent in January, the Quartzsite RV Show is a must-see attraction for myriad RVers. And as you might imagine, it is both a shopping and social gathering.  

Why this sprint into the desert? Many snowbirds are already familiar with Arizona’s combination of pleasant winter weather and the tremendous amount of free camping in the desert on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. (Along, of course, with other government-managed lands that offer flat desert surfaces.) There are also a number of RV parks in the area. 

 

What Draws Campers to the Quartzsite RV Show

Last month, the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show was held January 18 through 26 — all in a 640-foot-long tent. The event featured everything from solar and RV upgrades to kitchen tools and all sorts of RV products and services, some highly unique. The show is in its forty-second year and is operated by Kimmy King, daughter of founder Kenny King.

 

 

In addition the surrounding, desert camping appeals to groups of all types who gather annually. Common interests brings the attendees together.  (There are even those who like to camp in a clothing-optional environment.) However, many are those who appreciate hiking, rock hounding, off-road travel, and other activities that can be done int he desert.

One such activity is a trip to The Desert Bar. At the end of a very long dirt road, it is only open on weekends. This destination is a huge attraction for RV and ATV owners, as well. The location is completely solar-powered. offer eclectic food offerings, and has live music. One enters it through a replica of a church. As memorable as it is, the Desert Bar is only one of many social gathering spots at the Quartzsite RV Show that are frequented by campers.

Interestingly, many who are regular attendees of the Quartzsite RV show, noticed that there seemed to be fewer Canadians campers this year. These snowbirds, who are fixtures in the area, were not returning this year due to the unfavorable exchange rate of the Looney. 

 

Flea Market and Pop-Up Bars, Minerals and Nomads

In addition to the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show, there is a another show nearby. That would be Tyson Wells, a 25-acre outdoor show with 2.2 miles of aisle frontage with vendors in tent. Under the array of canvas, shoppers can find anything from wood carvings and water filters to tools campers may not know they even need — until they see them. RV parts are also a part of the spread. It’s a flea market of super size. And it is tailored for audience that loves the RV lifestyle. 

At Tyson Wells, there is also a vendor who sets up a very large tent that is as large as some grocery stores. It is stocked almost as well. Many of the provisions are canned and shelf-stable, but there is a selection of fresh items as well. Beer Belly’s Adult Day Care, a pop-up bar, is another social hot spot, especially for returnees.

Before the RV show, there is a also gem and mineral show. The show appeals to “rock hounds” and draws yet another unique group to Quartzsite. They are just one of many. The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous come too. This large group of people choose to live in a variety of vehicles and follow YouTuber Bob Wells,  who gained additional fame in the movie “Nomadland.” 

The show’s big tent includes workshops and seminars, but there are also quite a few booths representing workamping opportunities. These range from guarding gates at oil fields to working in amusement parks. Many local places that offer jobs in campgrounds. 

 

California Fires and Canadian Currency Depress Desert Numbers

While this year’s show had lower foot traffic, there do appear to be good reasons. As mentioned, the smaller number of Canadians may be related to the reduced value of Canadian currency. The devastating fires in Southern California may also have impacted attendance. Show owner, Kimmy King, says, “There’s no doubt that foot traffic is down.” Even so, the Quartzsite RV Show still had a strong showing. It’s not hard to imagine why. Quartzsite is truly a unique phenomenon. It is both an annual social gathering as well as an escape from colder climates for many thousands of RVers. 

Los Angeles residents left homeless by wildfires may be able to use RVs as temporary shelters, reports Minyvonne Burke at NBC News. On January 16, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order that fast-tracks temporary housing for residents who have been displaced by the wildfires. This includes RVs, which had been previously prohibited in Los Angeles, according to the LA County Zoning Enforcement.

Just two days prior, in a press conference on January 14, 2025,  on January 14, Mayor Karen Bass also updated jer executive order of a local declaration of emergency to facilitate rebuilding in the fire zones as recovery begins, as reported by WEAR Channel 3 News. Part of that declaration will include a one-stop permitting center helping to expedite rebuilding permits. The center will include agencies like FEMA as well as state agencies.

 

Los Angeles Lifts the Previous RV Prohibition

In many places, living in recreational vehicles full-time on a property has been prohibited by local ordinances. While there are sometimes exemptions for those who are in the building process, those exemptions typically have rather short durations and the building process must be active.

Newsom, in recognizing the conditions created by the disaster, says that will now change for homeless residents.

“As thousands of Los Angeles residents have been faced with sudden displacement, the state is taking decisive action to help provide housing and assistance as quickly as possible,” stated the California governor in a news release. “Today, we are expediting the creation of new temporary housing by removing roadblocks and strengthening protections against exploitation.”

Newsom’s executive order, with Mayor Bass’s declaration, will focus on things like debris removal, rebuilding permits and watershed hazard mitigation. Many residents still have not been able to return to the site of their hous. As of this writing, crews continue work to ensure that no dangers exist from fire or other consequences of the disaster.

The city has launched a Debris Removal Task Force in coordination with state and federal agencies, including the California Office of Emergency Services. This initiative aims to clear hazardous materials. The aim is also to ensure compliance with environmental regulations to prevent contamination of groundwater and air.

 

Preparing for the Post-Fire Landscape 

A Watershed Hazards Task Force has also been established to assess post-fire risks. Such risks could include flash floods and mudslides. Emergency mitigation measures will be implemented to protect infrastructure and public safety.

The history of Los Angeles’s homelessness problems are extensive. Many people were already living in RVs, which presented a problem for city. As they collected in areas, it created challenges for neighborhoods. The city’s generally pleasant climate but very high housing costs help create this problem in the community. At present the City Council already has allocated $750,000 to remove blighted RVs for dismantling.

However, the move to allow living in RVs is not unusual in fire-blighted areas. This reporter has been part of recovery efforts after fire in Northern California where this practice was also allowed.

The RV world has lost a true pioneer, Pete Liegl, founder of Forest River, Inc., who passed away at the age of 81. Liegl’s vision transformed this emerging recreational market in the Nineties, leaving an indelible mark on countless Americans who found a new path into the great outdoors. His career is a testament to the power of innovation, hard work, and a commitment to community. But he was more than just an industry heavyweight. He was an early inspiration for the millions of Americans who would follow Liegl into a world of recreational adventure.

 

A Visionary Foundation

In 1996, Pete Liegl founded Forest River in Elkhart, Indiana. His vision extended beyond product manufacturing. He became known as an early proponent of the kind of positive company culture that is more widespread today. At that time, his practice of celebrating employee empowerment and customer satisfaction was less common. But it quickly proved wildly successful. Liegl built Forest River into one of the largest RV manufacturers in the world. Under his leadership, the company also expanded to include motorhomes, buses, cargo trailers, and even boats, redefining what it meant to be a leader in the outdoor recreation space.

Eventually, Liegl’s massively growing company caught the attention of Berkshire Hathaway, which acquired Forest River in 2005. Under his continued stewardship, the company thrived, integrating state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices to meet the evolving demands of consumers. According to BusinessWire.com, the company employs more than 14,000 people across the country.

 

Pioneering Industry Growth

Pete Liegl’s impact on the RV industry goes far beyond Forest River’s success. His company’s growing reputation for excellence spurred healthy competition, with the industry following his lead toward affordable, well-built models. Known for his hands-on approach, Liegl maintained close relationships with dealers, suppliers, and employees, with a leadership style marked by a blend of determination and empathy, earning him respect from peers and competitors alike.

Forest River was also known for strategic acquisitions and investments. Its success in those arenas reflected Liegl’s finely tuned instincts for where consumers wanted the market to go. This smart growth built his company into a powerhouse that provided diverse product lines catering to a wide range of customers, from first-time RV buyers to seasoned road warriors. Through it all, Liegl was deeply involved in industry associations, often pushing for advancements that benefited not just his company but the entire RV sector.

 

Championing Outdoor Recreation

Liegl’s contributions had ripple effects on the outdoor recreation industry. His products enabled millions of people to ditch the cubicle in favor of the wild outdoors. By making RVs more accessible and versatile, Liegl invited the entire country into a lifestyle centered around freedom, exploration, and connection. And the mainstreaming of RVs introduced that freedom to more people than ever before.

As the masses poured outside in growing numbers, Forest River also led initiatives to promote environmental responsibility, incorporating sustainable manufacturing processes and eco-friendly designs in its products. This forward-thinking approach underscored their founder’s commitment to preserve the very landscapes his RVs were built to explore.

 

A Heart for People

In an article on Liegl’s impact on BusinessWire.com, Forest River said, “Pete, to anyone that knew him for more than a minute, found meaning and inspiration from his namesake, the Apostle Peter. Peter’s story inspired transformation, and Pete’s journey inspired many, while highlighting themes of redemption, leadership, and unwavering commitment to one’s beliefs.” Liegl’s reputation was one of generosity and commitment to community service, and he lived a life centered on giving back. Pete Liegl frequently supported local initiatives in his hometown of Elkhart, with his philanthropic efforts including funding youth programs and supporting disaster relief efforts, reflecting a spirit of compassion that resonated with his employees and community members.

 

The Legacy of Pete Liegl

Liegl’s passing marks the end of an era, but his influence lives on through the industry he helped shape. As that industry continues in a season perhaps more successful than ever before, tributes from across the nation have poured in, highlighting his role as a mentor, innovator, and friend. Industry leaders have hailed him as a driving force behind the modern RV movement, while community members have often remembered him as a generous benefactor and a source of inspiration.

His story is one of ambition turned into reality. From humble beginnings, Liegl built a legacy that will endure for generations. He took a young RV industry and drove it into its bright future. Forest River will continue its journey, and it does so atop the foundation that Liegl built — one rooted in quality, innovation, and humanity. Millions more Americans will continue to answer Liegl’s great invitation to adventure, and his spirit will remain a guiding force for years to come.

When it comes to the 2024 holiday season traffic, RVers can expect a major uptick. More and more campers say they will spend their time with family and friends on the road. In fact, the Go RVing Monthly Trends Report discovered thazt around 36.5 million Americans are planning an RV trip for the holiday season. That surge make road travel the most popular way to connect with friends and loved ones. 

 

Inside the Surge in Holiday Season Traffic 

Last month, the holiday travel kicked off. The Tuesday before Thanksgiving — affectionally known as “Travel Tuesday” — marked the unofficial start of the holiday travel season. And this season is projected to be one of the busiest of all time. According to AAA, over 71 million Americans were projected to travel over the road to see friends and family. That projection would break prepandemic highs. Low fuel prices have a big part to play in the increased travel demand, with the national average hitting their lowest point in 2024. 

For the sunny weather all year long, Florida is the top destination for travelers this holiday season. In the Sunshine State, Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale are the top three spots in 2024. New York City, Anaheim and Los Angeles, and Tampa round out the top six. 

With more people planning their travel starting on “Travel Tuesday,” the holiday season is expected to be busy for roads and campgrounds. Projections by the RV Industry Association(RVIA) show RVing is going to only get more popular after the holiday season. Dealers are seeing continued growth among first-time and returning RVers. 

 

How to Pave the Way for Holiday Travel

With Travel Tuesday being past, there are things travelers can do now to ensure they have a camping spot to park their RV when it’s time to celebrate. Some of the things RVers can do now to ensure a smooth trip include the following.

• Work through any preventative maintenance your RV needs before traveling. This will reduce the chances of a breakdown or other emergency on the road. 
• Don’t wait until the last minute to book your campground. Searching early and often at your favorite destinations can help you get the most out of your trip. 
• Be sure everything is packed and prepared before you leave. Leaving travel to the last minute can result in purchases on the road. Ultimately, that could  be more expensive than at your home. 

Few Americans experience the natural beauty of the country like campers. So, it should come as no surprise that the RV industry is rallying to support a Congressional act which would boost federal funds for public use lands — including campgrounds in national parks. The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is urging both chambers of Congress to pass the America the Beautiful Act, introduced into the U.S. Senate in November 2024. At the outset, the bill is already receiving broad support from both political parties and independents.

If passed, campers everywhere could see major improvements and conservation efforts through 2033. All lands administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service are eligible under the legislation. The bill would also require require additional reporting to Congress on deferred maintenance backlogs.

 

Bipartisan Support for the Act in the Senate

A bipartisan group of senators sponsored the The America the Beautiful Act. It’s introdution represents as welcome unified effort following the political division of a presidential election year. Republicans Steve Daines (Montana) and Kevin Kramer (North Dakota), Democrat Mark Warner (Virginia), and Independent Angus King (Maine) all support the bill. If passed, the bills secures funding for public land conservation and improvements for the next eight years. It also extends the Great American Outdoors Act beyond the 2025 expiration date. 

The bill proposes an increase in funding for public land projects — to extend to $2 billion per year. If enacted, its passage would open opportunities for future projects to be cleared sooner. The public, including campers, could also donate to the cause, ensuring the long-term viability of preserving public lands. 

Under the original executive order and legislation prioritized by the Biden administration, the overarching goal of the project is to “conserve, connect, and restore at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030 for the sake of our economy, our health, and our well-being.” Original funding came from the federal government, combined with both private and philanthropic donations. According to the Department of the Interior, the project is intended to grant more equitable access to natural resources for all Americans.

 

RV Industry Applauds Investment in Outdoor Spaces

“The RV Industry Association applauds the introduction of the America the Beautiful Act,” says RV Industry Association President and CEO Craig Kirby. “This extended investment in our public lands is important, as it would allow RVers and other outdoor recreation enthusiasts to continue to access safe, maintained, and enhanced outdoor spaces. We urge Congress to pass this legislation so that the great outdoors can be cherished for generations to come.”

Additional organizations support the legislation as well. Nationally, these include the National Park Foundation, National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), Boone and Crockett Club, and Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. It is also supported by state organizations like Montana Outfitters and Guides Association and Friends of Acadia.

Although the legislation has been introduced into Congress, it has not yet been assigned for a hearing. The bill is public for anyone to read.