According to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), RV sales rose approximately 34% in the U.S. between the years 2013 and 2017, with increases occurring for seven consecutive years after the recession in 2008. Shipments of RVs in 2018 were the second highest in history. More RVs are made in the U.S. than in the rest of the world combined, with more than 89% of these being manufactured in the State of Indiana.

There are many reasons why RV travel has become so popular recently. One main factor is the dollars saved with RV travel as opposed to going by car and staying in motels/hotels and eating in restaurants. According to the RVIA, a four-person family can save as much as 59% when vacationing in an RV. This includes the cost of ownership (including insurance) and fuel.

Other Pros of RV Travel

Other reasons you might choose RVing include:

  1. According to a Harris Interactive survey, RV owners report a great opportunity to experience nature and outdoor activities. RV travel also promotes increased family bonding, benefits for children, healthier eating while traveling and the obvious advantages of having your own bathroom facilities. You also have the ability to sleep in your own bed rather than one a stranger slept in the night before.
  2. Research shows that RVers take three or more short vacations a year, often staying close to home to save on time and fuel costs. With more than 16,000 campgrounds found across the country, it’s easy to find interesting places to stay.
  3. Some worthwhile National Parks such as Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park offer programs that run into the evening, after dark. With motel accommodations twenty or more miles away, having your own sleeping accommodations right there at the park is a big convenience and allows you to spend more time doing things you want to do.
  4. Viewing your scenic surroundings from high up and through a huge windshield makes traveling much more enjoyable than car travel.

Cons of RV Travel

Some people aren’t cut out for RV vacationing and would prefer having someone else cook their food, make their beds, etc. There are chores and maintenance that need to be done with an RV, plus storage requirements when not using your rig. Try renting an RV and taking a short trip to see how you like it. Experience is the true test.