A new special report from Go RVing reveals that individuals who purchased recreational vehicles during the COVID-19 pandemic remain committed to the RV lifestyle, highlighting their sustained interest even after the public health crisis ended.
The findings expand on the broader 2024 RV Owner Demographic Profile by focusing on first-time buyers, particularly those who entered the market from 2020 to 2022.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA on April 15, the report identifies that 73% of COVID-era RV buyers, referred to as “COVID Buyers,” are between the ages of 18 and 54. Nearly half report earning more than $75,000 annually, and more than half are employed full-time.
Fifty percent of these buyers live in households with children, and the most common RV-related activities include camping, swimming, and cooking. On average, RVs are used 30 days per year.
The decision to purchase an RV was influenced by prior camping experiences and a desire for new travel methods, both cited by 36% of COVID Buyers. However, this group showed distinct motivations compared with other first-time owners, including the need for temporary housing, influence from social media, and encouragement from peers.
In terms of product preference, 49% of COVID Buyers opted for conventional travel trailers. Most purchases occurred in person (93%), and 69% of buyers chose new RVs. While 48% paid in cash, others used dealer financing (24%) or private financing options (21%).
The report finds strong brand loyalty among this group. Eighty-six percent of COVID Buyers indicated they would purchase the same brand again, with positive past experiences (36%), product quality (29%), and desired features (25%) noted as top reasons.
Go RVing also found that RVs are generally replaced every two to five years by 62% of owners. As many COVID Buyers are entering this window, the report signals a potential wave of replacement purchases in the near term.
Comparisons between COVID Buyers and other first-time owners show subtle differences in use and preferences. COVID Buyers reported using their RVs more than expected and were more inclined to stay at RV resorts, truck stops, and rest areas.
The pandemic also influenced how these buyers researched their purchases. COVID Buyers were more likely to rely on digital platforms like YouTube, online blogs, and social media for information, reflecting an increased comfort with online research.