Despite crippling inflation and high interest rates, Americans have been persistent consumers when it comes to travel, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. RV travel saw a dramatic surge in the wake of COVID lockdowns, and as the industry returns to the pre-pandemic "sweet spot," the bellwether boasts a "bright future" for the U.S. economy. "We are not seeing a looming crisis.
While the global pandemic prompted lockdowns and largely suspended travel, Americans turned to RVs. In 2021, RV shipments reached historic levels at over 600,000 according to RVIA data. Since then, shipments and sales have declined. In 2023, there were only 313,174 shipments recorded. Monthly data, however, shows RV shipments in 2024 are outpacing last year's. May 2024 saw an increase of 7.2% compared to the 30,919 units shipped in May 2023.