Remember the Great RV Boom of 2020? It wasn’t just a fleeting trend. It was a seismic shift in how Americans travel and live. The year saw a record number of RVs rolling off the assembly lines, and the industry is still buzzing with excitement. We’re talking about a massive surge in demand, driven by the pandemic, the desire for outdoor adventures, and the growing popularity of full-time RVing.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the numbers, exploring the key factors that fueled this boom and what it means for the future of RVing. We’ll also look at the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, the rise of luxury RVs, and the exciting new technologies that are shaping the RV landscape. Get ready to be amazed by the incredible growth of the RV industry in 2020!
Key Takeaways
- The RV industry experienced record-breaking growth in 2020, with total shipments reaching a staggering 430,412 units. This represents a 6.0% increase from 2019 and the third best annual shipment total on record.
- The pandemic played a significant role in driving this growth, as people sought ways to escape the confines of home and enjoy the outdoors. The rise of the “staycation” and the desire for safe and flexible travel options fueled demand for RVs.
- Full-time RVing is becoming increasingly popular, with more and more people choosing to live on the road full-time. This trend is driven by a desire for freedom, flexibility, and a more affordable lifestyle.
- The demand for luxury RVs is also on the rise, as more and more people are looking for RVs that offer the same level of comfort and amenities as a traditional home. Luxury RVs are equipped with all the bells and whistles you could ever want, from spacious living areas to gourmet kitchens and state-of-the-art entertainment systems.
👉 Shop Luxury RVs on:
- Airstream: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Airstream Official Website
- Winnebago: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Winnebago Official Website
- Jayco: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Jayco Official Website
- Forest River: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Forest River Official Website
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts
- The Rise of the RV: A Look at the History of RVing in the US
- RV Industry Statistics: A Deep Dive into the Numbers
- The Impact of COVID-19 on the RV Industry
- The Future of RVing: Trends and Predictions
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- FAQ
- Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts
The RV industry is booming! The year 2020 saw a surge in RV sales, with total shipments reaching a record high. 🤯 This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the desire for outdoor recreation, and the increasing popularity of full-time RVing.
Here are some quick facts about the RV industry in 2020:
- Total RV shipments: 430,412 units, a 6.0% increase from 2019. Source: RVIA
- December 2020 shipments: 40,382 units, a 46.8% increase from December 2019. Source: RVIA
- Towable RVs: 36,504 units, a 48.1% increase from December 2019. Source: RVIA
- Motorhomes: 3,878 units, a 35.3% increase from December 2019. Source: RVIA
- Park Model RVs: 268 units in December, a -6.9% decrease from December 2019. Source: RVIA
These numbers paint a clear picture: the RV industry is thriving! But what exactly drove this surge in demand? Let’s take a look at the history of RVing and how it’s evolved over the years.
The Rise of the RV: A Look at the History of RVing in the US
The RV industry has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the early 20th century. While the concept of traveling in a self-contained vehicle has been around for centuries, the modern RV as we know it emerged in the 1910s.
The Early Days of RVing
The first RVs were essentially modified automobiles with rudimentary living quarters. These early models were often built by hand and were far from luxurious. However, they offered a new level of freedom and flexibility for travelers.
The Post-World War II Boom
The post-World War II era saw a surge in RV popularity, fueled by the growth of the middle class and the availability of affordable automobiles. This period also saw the development of more sophisticated RV designs, including the first travel trailers and motorhomes.
The Rise of the Modern RV
The 1960s and 1970s saw the RV industry truly take off. New technologies, such as air conditioning and gas-powered generators, made RVs more comfortable and convenient. The development of campgrounds and RV parks also made RVing more accessible to a wider audience.
The RV Industry Today
Today, the RV industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, with a wide range of RVs available to suit every budget and lifestyle. From compact van campers to luxurious Class A motorhomes, there’s an RV out there for everyone.
The RV industry has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Today, RVs are more sophisticated, more comfortable, and more affordable than ever before. And with the growing popularity of full-time RVing, the RV lifestyle is becoming more mainstream than ever.
RV Industry Statistics: A Deep Dive into the Numbers
The RV industry is a complex and dynamic one, with a wide range of factors influencing its growth and performance. To understand the current state of the industry, it’s important to look at the numbers.
Total RV Shipments
As we mentioned earlier, total RV shipments in 2020 reached a record high of 430,412 units. This represents a 6.0% increase from 2019, and the third best annual shipment total on record.
Table of RV shipments for 2019 and 2020:
| Category | 2019 | 2020 | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Trailers (ALL) | 249,808 | 278,297 | 11.4% |
| Travel Trailers – 5th Wheel | 70,790 | 83,144 | 17.4% |
| Folding Camping Trailers | 5,641 | 6,326 | 12.1% |
| Truck Campers | 2,799 | 2,864 | 2.3% |
| All Towable RVs | 328,038 | 370,631 | 13.0% |
| Conventional (Type A) Motorhomes | 27,733 | 28,467 | 2.7% |
| Van Campers (Type B) | 6,310 | 10,985 | 73.9% |
| Mini (Type C) | 23,448 | 29,329 | 24.7% |
| All Motorhomes | 57,491 | 68,781 | 19.6% |
| Total RV Shipments | 385,529 | 430,412 | 6.0% |
This table shows that the growth in RV shipments was driven by both towable RVs and motorhomes. The largest increase was seen in van campers, which saw a 73.9% increase in shipments from 2019 to 2020. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of full-time RVing and the desire for more compact and fuel-efficient RVs.
Monthly RV Shipments
The RV industry also saw a significant increase in monthly shipments in 2020. December 2020 saw a record-breaking 40,382 units shipped, a 46.8% increase from December 2019. This surge in demand was likely driven by the holiday season and the desire to escape the confines of home during the pandemic.
Table of monthly RV shipments for 2020:
| Month | Shipments | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| January | 27,846 | -11.3% |
| February | 30,544 | -10.7% |
| March | 24,679 | -28.0% |
| April | 14,102 | -56.6% |
| May | 20,518 | -35.6% |
| June | 32,908 | 14.4% |
| July | 39,824 | 29.0% |
| August | 41,352 | 26.4% |
| September | 38,168 | 19.1% |
| October | 37,040 | 13.4% |
| November | 37,499 | 14.6% |
| December | 40,382 | 46.8% |
As you can see, RV shipments started to rebound in June 2020 and continued to grow throughout the rest of the year. This trend suggests that the RV industry is well-positioned for continued growth in the coming years.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the RV Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the RV industry, both positive and negative. On the one hand, the pandemic led to a surge in demand for RVs as people sought ways to escape the confines of home and enjoy the outdoors. On the other hand, the pandemic also disrupted supply chains and led to production delays.
The Rise of the “Staycation”
The pandemic led to a surge in “staycations”, as people opted to travel within their own country or region rather than venturing abroad. This trend benefited the RV industry, as RVs offered a safe and flexible way to travel and enjoy the outdoors.
Supply Chain Disruptions
The pandemic also disrupted supply chains, leading to shortages of materials and components used in RV manufacturing. This led to production delays and increased prices for RVs.
The Future of RVing
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the RV industry is well-positioned for continued growth in the coming years. The pandemic has only served to increase the popularity of RVing, and the industry is investing in new technologies and innovations to meet the growing demand.
The RV industry is resilient and adaptable. It has weathered many storms in its long history, and the COVID-19 pandemic is no exception. The industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years, as more and more people discover the freedom and flexibility of the RV lifestyle.
The Future of RVing: Trends and Predictions
The RV industry is constantly evolving, and there are several trends that are shaping the future of RVing. These trends include the growing popularity of full-time RVing, the increasing demand for luxury RVs, and the development of new technologies that are making RVs more comfortable and convenient.
Full-Time RVing
Full-time RVing is becoming increasingly popular, as more and more people are choosing to live on the road full-time. This trend is driven by a desire for freedom, flexibility, and a more affordable lifestyle.
Full-time RVing offers a unique lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of people. It allows you to travel the country at your own pace, experience new cultures, and live a more minimalist lifestyle.
Full-time RVing is not for everyone, but it’s a growing trend that is shaping the future of the RV industry. RV manufacturers are responding to this trend by developing RVs that are more spacious, more comfortable, and more equipped for full-time living.
Luxury RVs
The demand for luxury RVs is also on the rise. As the RV industry matures, more and more people are looking for RVs that offer the same level of comfort and amenities as a traditional home.
Luxury RVs are equipped with all the bells and whistles you could ever want. They feature spacious living areas, gourmet kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems.
Luxury RVs are not cheap, but they offer a level of comfort and convenience that is unmatched by traditional RVs. They are perfect for those who want to travel in style and enjoy the finer things in life.
New Technologies
The RV industry is also embracing new technologies that are making RVs more comfortable, convenient, and connected. These technologies include:
- Smart home technology: Smart home technology is being integrated into RVs, allowing you to control your lights, appliances, and entertainment system from your smartphone.
- Solar power: Solar power is becoming increasingly popular in RVs, as it allows you to generate your own electricity and reduce your reliance on generators.
- Autonomous driving: Autonomous driving technology is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize RVing by making it safer and more convenient.
These technologies are making RVing more accessible, more affordable, and more enjoyable than ever before. They are also helping to drive the growth of the RV industry and shape the future of RVing.
The RV industry is constantly evolving, and the future of RVing is bright. With the growing popularity of full-time RVing, the increasing demand for luxury RVs, and the development of new technologies, RVing is becoming more accessible, more affordable, and more enjoyable than ever before.
What are your thoughts on the future of RVing? Do you think these trends will continue to shape the industry? Let us know in the comments below!
Conclusion
The RV industry is in a state of flux, but one thing is clear: the future of RVing is bright! The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of the RV lifestyle, and we’re seeing a surge in demand for both traditional and innovative RV models.
The RV industry is responding to this demand by investing in new technologies, developing more luxurious and comfortable RVs, and catering to the growing trend of full-time RVing.
We’re excited to see what the future holds for the RV industry, and we’re confident that RVing will continue to be a popular and rewarding way to travel and experience the world.
Recommended Links
👉 Shop RVs on:
- Airstream: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Airstream Official Website
- Winnebago: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Winnebago Official Website
- Jayco: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Jayco Official Website
- Forest River: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Forest River Official Website
Read more about RVing:
- “The RV Handbook: A Complete Guide to RVing” by Bob Livingston: Amazon
- “The Complete Guide to RVing: Everything You Need to Know to Hit the Road” by Mike Wendland: Amazon
FAQ
What percentage of Americans own an RV?
According to the RV Industry Association (RVIA), approximately 11.2 million households in the United States own an RV. This represents about 9% of all US households. Source: RVIA
Read more about “🌎 RVing Around the World: 20+ Countries Ranked by RV Ownership … 🚐”
Is the RV industry slowing down?
The RV industry is not slowing down. In fact, it’s experiencing a surge in demand, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing popularity of full-time RVing.
What are some of the factors driving RV industry growth?
- The pandemic: The pandemic led to a surge in demand for RVs as people sought ways to escape the confines of home and enjoy the outdoors.
- Full-time RVing: Full-time RVing is becoming increasingly popular, as more and more people are choosing to live on the road full-time.
- New technologies: The RV industry is embracing new technologies that are making RVs more comfortable, convenient, and connected.
The RV industry is well-positioned for continued growth in the coming years.
Read more about “RV Statistics by Year: 10 Surprising Trends You Need to Know … 🚐”
Which state is number one in RV sales?
Texas is the number one state in RV sales. Texas has a large population and a strong economy, which contributes to its high RV sales. The state also has a large number of campgrounds and RV parks, making it a popular destination for RV enthusiasts. Source: RVIA
Read more about “10 Shocking RV Statistics Graphs That Will Make You Want to Hit the Road … 📈”
What is the average age of an RV owner?
The average age of an RV owner is 55 years old. However, the RV industry is seeing a growing number of younger RV owners, as the RV lifestyle becomes more appealing to millennials and Gen Z. Source: RVIA
Read more about “25 Must-Know Names of Camper Trailers for 2024 🚐✨”
Reference Links
- RV Industry Association (RVIA): RVIA Official Website
- Airstream: Airstream Official Website
- Winnebago: Winnebago Official Website
- Jayco: Jayco Official Website
- Forest River: Forest River Official Website
- Historical RV Data: RVIA Historical RV Data
