Harvest Hosts, an app connecting rural land owners with RVers, released a survey showing RVers are traveling later into the season, despite being more comfortable now with the idea of flying than over the summer.
Travelers are remaining cautious and considering “trip stacking,” Harvest Hosts reported, with road travel as an optimal backup for any plans involving flights, especially holiday-related travel. Joel Holland, Harvest Hosts CEO, said interest in RVing has reached records over the last two years, despite economic issues.
“The allure of the open road has struck a chord with American travelers, and enthusiasm for RVing is continuing to grow year over year,” Holland said. “Despite the rising gas prices, people are increasing the number of road trips they are taking each year, and more RVers than ever are now planning to keep their RVs out later into the season or even year-round.”
Harvest Hosts’ survey found many RVers took more trips in the last year. The survey also found 26% of RVers who responded, rather than winterizing their vehicle, are prolonging the season or keeping their RV going all year. About 63% of all respondents said they are planning RV travel later into the season than usual.
The survey found 40% of respondents took more than five road trips in an RV during 2021. In addition, 23% of respondents said they are planning trips one to three months in advance.
The campground shortage this past summer impacted 41% of respondents. The survey found 63% of RVers did not need to cancel road trips in the last six months.
Almost a quarter, 24%, of respondents said gas prices impacted their travel plans in the last few months.
Travelers are becoming more comfortable with the idea of flying again, especially as COVID-19 vaccine distribution increases and travel restrictions are easing globally. When asked about feeling safe flying, 56% said they now felt safe. In comparison, only 19% of respondents felt comfortable flying when asked about the topic in a summer travel survey. However, 40% of respondents admitted they are considering having a road trip planned as a backup for any trips that require flying.
Almost all respondents (95%) said they will continue to travel via RV in the coming year and 40% plan to fly at some point.
