New research into Americans’ travel habits amid the COVID pandemic finds nearly 40% are unlikely to fly in the coming year, while 50% say they will travel. This means more Americans will be driving, and according to the survey, they’ll be behind the wheel of a rented RV, writes Jordan Palmer for a TravelAwaits.com report.
RVing is the new-found travel favorite of 2020, and it’s expected to be even more popular in 2021 for long-distance travel, staying at state and national parks, and adventurous family trips.
RV Rentals Surging
The new study, released by RVshare, the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, says since May 2020, RV travel and RV rentals surged in popularity, especially among first-time RVers, with 80 percent of bookings this year being made by new users.
Thanks to COVID, the idea of not flying and not dealing with hotels or crowded venues is now more appealing to the American traveler than ever.
- 75% agree that RVs are a great choice for spontaneous travel and a quick getaway
- 77% of survey respondents agree that RV travel lets you get outdoors, while offering the conveniences of a hotel, and is more comfortable than camping
- 57% consider RV travel more appealing than before the pandemic
Vacation Your Way
A new travel-sector term has emerged this year: “self-catered vacations,” and due to the pandemic, the appeal of planning a vacation where you can control your options is growing. In the RVshare survey, two-thirds of travelers say they want lodging options where they can control the cleanliness and sanitation. They are finding that RVs with amenities including bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens all on board, fit the bill.
RV vacations also allow travelers to be flexible with their travel plans and have access to the great outdoors.
- 32% of respondents said an RV would be their preferred type of “self-catered” accommodation
- 30% would prefer staying with friends or relatives
- 28% would prefer to stay in a vacation rental
