RVIA released the first of seven “clusters” highlighting research found in Go RVing’s demographic survey, targeting family campers as those who RV often during the summer.
The RV Owner Demographic Profile, which is fully accessible to RVIA and RVDA members, is a comprehensive study covering the ownership habits of current and former RV owners, along with those intending to purchase a unit.
One of the study’s research clusters is “Family Campers,” who make up 33 percent of total RV owners, the study found. These RV owners are defined as those who grew up with an RV and use camping to bond with family. Limited by full-time employment, RVIA stated these “eager owners” often go RVing in the summer.
Research found that many RV owners in this category fall within a younger age range: 52 percent are within 18-34 years old, while 48 percent are between ages 35-54. More than half travel with their spouse and/or children under age 18, and 64 percent are employed full-time.
“It is worth mentioning that this cluster is often divided into two sub-categories: the ‘silver spoon,’ which sees the RV as a status symbol and prioritizes luxury finishes and the latest technology, and ‘family matters,’ which focuses on affordable, nature-focused travel,” the association stated.
RV types that are most common among family campers are conventional travel trailers, expandable trailers and toy haulers. Of the group 83 percent said they plan on purchasing another RV in the future, the study found.
When family camper category members were asked their reasons to go RVing, the top three responses were exploring the outdoors, relaxing and visiting a location with natural beauty.
The study found that during their travels, many family campers prefer hiking while others participate in water recreational activities, or fishing and hunting. When they are not on the move, RVIA stated they tend to stay in state parks, private campgrounds and recreation area campgrounds.
The association stated six other research clusters will be explored in the coming weeks. Those interested can check out a cluster overview here.
