The upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8 is not only attracting millions of travelers to the path of totality across the United States, but it’s also providing a boost to the RV industry. According to the RV Industry Association (RVIA), over 14 million Americans, nearly one-fourth of eclipse travelers, plan to witness this rare celestial event using an RV.
RV rental companies are reporting unprecedented demand. RVshare, an Akron-based RV rental marketplace, has seen a staggering 1,000% increase in bookings in Ohio compared to the same time last year.
“We’re up more than $660 for RV bookings compared to Memorial Day, which is usually the start of high bookings for the summer,” Maddi Bourgerie, RVshare’s senior director of communications, told News 5 Cleveland.
The surge is even more pronounced in Texas, with some areas along the path of totality experiencing an astounding 700% increase in RV bookings, according to KLTV.
“In your area, we are seeing about eight times the amount of bookings we would normally see,” remarked Jon Gray, CEO of RV rental company RVshare.
Many eclipse chasers are opting for RVs due to their flexibility. “Renting an RV for seeing the eclipse makes a ton of sense, because the RV can move,” Gray explained. “So, if it’s cloudy where you are, you can drive and get to a better view.”
This influx of eclipse tourists is providing an economic boon to small towns in the path of totality. The tax revenue that these people are bringing to small businesses, every RV park and hotel around here is at capacity,” said Brittany Franza, owner of The Oaks on 37 Tiny Home & RV Resort in Mt. Vernon, Texas.
The economic influence of solar eclipses on local economies can indeed be significant, as seen during the 2017 total solar eclipse.
In Oregon, for example, the Oregon Office of Emergency Management advised businesses and communities to prepare for a surge in visitors, suggesting a notable boost in economic activities across various sectors, from hospitality to retail. This indicates that the 2017 solar eclipse likely had a meaningful economic impact on Oregon RV businesses, such as rentals, dealerships, and campgrounds, which are expecting a similar boost in revenue as eclipse enthusiasts flock to prime viewing locations along the path of totality.
As demand soars, RV companies recommend travelers look for rentals outside the path of totality and drive in for the eclipse. However, finding overnight parking may prove challenging due to limited availability.
The 2024 total solar eclipse is shaping up to be not just an unforgettable astronomical spectacle, but also a major catalyst for the RV industry. With millions set to experience this event on wheels, April 8 is poised to be a truly special day for both eclipse enthusiasts and RV companies alike.