What RV Trends Are Young People Excited About?

A burgeoning market for the RV industry is within the 20 to 40 years of age group. In the past, RVing was seen as more of a retired person’s game, a life meant only for those aged 60 or older. But as more people take up camping and put a focus on being outside as much as possible, RV travel has become increasingly attractive to a younger audience.

So if younger generations are buying RVs, what trends excite them the most? What things does the RV industry need to do to keep and hold the attention of a younger market?

Improved Design

If the pictures of RV and van renovations on Instagram and Facebook are any indication, many people are in favor of clean lines, thoughtfully designed interiors, and attractive exteriors. Wood laminate interiors, carpeting,  and swoops and swirls on RV exteriors should be a thing of the past. Instead, RV manufacturers could look to incorporate more modern design elements such as anything-but-beige interiors, stainless steel appliances, functional, multi-purpose storage, and smooth surfaces. Additionally, manufacturers should consider incorporating tech features such as smart appliances, app-controlled systems, and top-of-the-line batteries for off-grid camping.

Smaller RVs

For many years, bigger was better in the RV world. But now, as younger singles, couples, and families hit the road, they’re looking for RVs that are more agile. The goal for young travelers isn’t so much to stay at one resort for months on end but to move around and experience as much of the country as they can. And to do that, a smaller RV is a necessity. It’s a bonus if the rig can be towed with a mid-sized sedan or crossover SUV. Manufacturers are luckily already getting in on this trend. Airstream, for example, has seen great success with their Basecamp models, which are designed for adventure travel in rugged terrains.

Beef Up Quality 

It’s no secret that a lot of RV manufacturers can skimp on quality during the construction process. As they’re churning rigs off the assembly lines, sub-par materials, cheap finishing touches, and quick fixes for issues reign supreme. But for the longevity of a rig – and to win the loyalty of a younger audience – manufacturers must make quality and durable construction a focus. This means using long-lasting materials and taking time to properly construct an RV from the chassis up. Of course, higher quality often translates to a higher price tag, but for people who want to make their RV their full-time home, a pricey rig may still cost less than buying a starter home. 

Are you part of the young generation in love with RV living? What trends would you like to see RV manufacturers incorporate into their models? Let us know in the comments or contact us today!