With ongoing economic uncertainty and unpredictable travel logistics shaping vacation choices, millions of Americans are turning to RVing as a reliable, cost-efficient way to travel this holiday season.
According to the RV Industry Association’s latest Holiday Travel Intention Survey, 28 million Americans plan to travel by RV this winter—a 33% increase from last year.
The data underscores RVing’s growing appeal as a cost-effective and flexible alternative to traditional travel.
With families seeking to avoid expensive flights, airport delays, and crowded terminals, RVs offer a comfortable and controlled option that allows travelers to bring their own gear, travel with pets, and maintain flexible schedules.
“In a season when travel can feel unpredictable and overwhelming, RVing puts travelers back in the driver’s seat,” said Monika Geraci, RV Industry Association spokesperson.
“Whether you’re parked at the base of a ski slope in Colorado, visiting family along the coast, or chasing sunshine with your pets in tow, RVing delivers the comfort of home and the freedom to roam without the cancellations, delays, or stress that often come with other forms of travel,” Monika explained.
“Twenty-eight million Americans know that just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to hang up your keys,” Monika added.
The survey highlights that 9 million Americans will take RV trips for Thanksgiving and another 7 million for Christmas. Nearly 4 in 10 leisure travelers plan to take an RV trip within the next year, reflecting a significant rise in interest, while 26% of respondents are considering purchasing an RV in 2026.
More than half of RV owners intend to stay in their RVs while visiting family and friends this Thanksgiving, and nearly half will do so for Christmas.
Many travelers are also using RVs as mobile guest suites to reduce crowding during the holidays.
Younger generations are driving the momentum, with 35% of Gen Z and 32% of Millennials expressing plans to buy an RV within the next year, seeing it as a tech-friendly, affordable, and adaptable way to travel.
The rise of artificial intelligence is also influencing travel planning, with 40% of RVers saying they’ll use AI tools to map routes and locate campgrounds.
Most travelers are opting for road trips within four to seven hours from home, showing a preference for accessible, short-term adventures that still deliver a sense of freedom.
The survey also revealed RVers’ positive impact on local economies, with 70% planning at least three trips in the next year and spending roughly $1,500 per outing on lodging, dining, and recreation.
And with 67% of travelers bringing pets along for the ride, RVing continues to stand out as the most pet-friendly form of travel.
The findings reinforce how RV travel is reshaping the holiday landscape—supporting local tourism, offering affordability in uncertain times, and giving travelers more control over how they spend the season outdoors.