Go RVing’s November Real Trends Report focused on smart home and consumer shopping trends.
The report found that, according to YouGov 2021 data, RV owners are more than 2.5 times more likely to own an internet-connected device than a member of the public. Connected items include smart fridges or kettles, which can be switched on with smartphone applications.
The report found smart home appliances sales forecast to increase by 25% in 2021, according to Statista data. Another 63% of consumers bought smart home devices as a home improvement method. Go RVing stated RVers are beginning to expect automation and connectivity in their RVs, just as homeowners are beginning to do.
“RV campgrounds and manufacturers need to be prepared to not only accommodate higher Wi-Fi connection demands,” the report stated, “but also expectations from consumers when looking to buy or rent an RV.”
The trends report also focused on consumer shopping trends in light of supply chain delays and in-store shortages. Mintel’s Winter Holiday Shop report found 20% more shoppers planning to start holiday buying before Thanksgiving than in 2020. Almost half of consumers (48%) replaced in-store purchasing with online alternatives, according to Raydient’s 2021 State of Consumer Behavior. In a September 2021 report, the NPD Group found consumers spent an average of 20% more per shopping trip since March 2020.
“RV dealers can leverage this shift in mentality by exploring unique ways to engage consumers and ensure their products remain top of mind amid shortages,” Go RVing’s report stated.
The report found 40% of consumers would pay more for products customizable through artificial reality (AR), according to data from Threekit.
“Consumers are looking to replicate the tangible aspects of in-person shopping from the safety and comfort of their own homes and/or RVs,” the report stated. “AR would be useful for customizing RVs as consumers are enthusiastic and highly receptive to using AR while shopping. Personalization has become a crucial part of the consumer journey as modern technologies develop.”
