An estimated 23 million Americans plan to take an RV trip this fall, with affordability, comfort and access to outdoor destinations driving interest as travelers navigate economic pressures and rising travel costs, according to a quarterly travel intentions survey commissioned by the RV Industry Association (RVIA).
More than 11 million Americans plan to take an RV trip over Labor Day, while more than 9.4 million people who do not currently own an RV plan to rent or borrow one this fall, the survey found.
Affordability was the leading reason respondents cited for choosing RV travel, with more than half identifying it as a primary factor. Comfort and the opportunity to see fall foliage also ranked among the leading reasons.
The survey also found that economic uncertainty is influencing travel decisions, with respondents experiencing greater economic pressure more likely to choose RV travel and less expensive destinations.
Road trips remain the leading type of RV trip across most generations. National parks and scenic wonders have surpassed beaches for the first time as the most common destinations respondents plan to visit during the fall.
The Northeast and Southeast ranked as the top regions for fall RV travel. More than 90% of RV travelers plan trips within three to seven hours of home, while concerts, music events and sporting events are also being incorporated into RV trips.
Once at their destinations, camping, fishing and hiking are among the leading planned outdoor activities.
Pet travel is also prominent, with more than 71% of respondents planning to bring their pets on fall RV trips.
Younger generations are showing strong interest in RV travel, with Gen Z and Millennials reporting the strongest travel motivation and leading RV-related engagement.
Among respondents likely or very likely to purchase an RV, 35% now expect to make a purchase within the next three months, nearly double the 18% reported two years ago.
“For families, fall can be one of the best times to press pause and hit the road—whether it’s a long weekend, fall break, or Thanksgiving trip,” Jeremy Greene, vice president of marketing for the RV Industry Association, said in a News and Insights report of RVIA.
“RVing gives families the flexibility to travel on their own schedule, stay comfortable along the way, and bring the people—and pets—they love,” Greene added.
