Who is the RV traveler?

A University of Michigan Survey Research Center study prepared for RVIA found that one out of every 10 vehicle-owning households in the United States owns an RV. That number rises to one in nine among households headed by 35 to 54 year-olds.

RV owners are closely divided among empty-nesters aged 55 and up, enjoying the freedom of frequent retirement travel, and 35-54-year-old couples raising families, who appreciate the convenience, economy and

enjoyment of RV vacations. According to a recent University of Michigan study, 40% of America's RVers are aged 55 and up while 45% are between the ages of 35 and 54.

The average RV owner is 48 years old, owns their own home, is married, has a household income of $47,000, buys in order to travel and camp and is overwhelmingly pleased with the purchase, according to RVIA research. There are an estimated 30 million RV enthusiasts in the United States.

Where do RVers travel?

With more than 16,000 public and privately owned campgrounds nationwide, RVers are free to roam America's highways and backroads for a weekend or weeks on end. Privately owned RV parks and campgrounds are found near popular destinations, along major tourist routes and even in city environments. These campgrounds appeal to traveling families by offering a variety of activities to keep children busy. Swimming pools, game rooms, playgrounds and snack bars are practically standard. RV travelers seeking a resort atmosphere with facilities such as tennis courts, golf courses and health spas flock to the new breed of luxury RV resorts.  Facilities at public campgrounds tend to be simple, but offer great scenic beauty. Public lands are popular for hiking, fishing, white water rafting and many other outdoor recreational opportunities.

What does the future hold for the RV industry?

The University of Michigan projects the number of RV-owning households will rise from the current 8.6 million to 10.4 million in the year 2010 -- a gain of 21 percent, outpacing overall U.S. household growth of 15 percent.

Among all U.S. households, one-in-five intend to purchase an RV in the future, according to the University of Michigan study.

Changes in the frequency and duration of vacations also favor the RV industry. Americans are traveling more but over short distances and on weekends with less planning, according to recent studies. For RV owners, this is a natural travel pattern.

Today's RVs are more modern including expandable rooms, high-tech satellite systems, queen sized beds, washers and dryers and much more. Innovations in RVs will certainly continue as manufacturers strive to provide RVers with all the conveniences of home.