October RV sales fall, pausing hopes of a market turnaround

RV sales slipped in October following September’s rebound, with new unit sales down 7.38% year-over-year, according to Statistical Surveys Inc.

From September momentum to October pullback

Just a month earlier, the picture looked brighter. Trailer sales were up, used RVs were moving, and shopper interest was keeping pace with listings. October didn’t undo that progress, but it did show that the recovery is uneven and still sensitive to timing, pricing, and buyer confidence.

Towable RV sales felt the slowdown first

The biggest change showed up in towables. New towable RV sales dropped 8.08% compared to last year, with travel trailers and fifth wheels both seeing similar declines. These are the bread-and-butter rigs for many RVers, so the pullback suggests buyers are taking a closer look before committing.

Motorized RVs were steadier, with one bright spot

Motorized RVs held up better overall, slipping just 1.77%. Class A and Class B motorhomes posted modest declines, but Class C motorhomes moved in the opposite direction, ending October up 1.76% year-over-year. That lines up with what many RVers are looking for right now: something easier to drive, easier to park, and still comfortable on the road.

What this means if you’re shopping

For RVers in the market, October’s slowdown could work in your favor. Dealers are facing softer demand, especially on new towables, which may open the door to better pricing or incentives as the season wraps up. September hinted at stability; October reminds us the market is still finding its balance.

Sources include Statistical Surveys Inc.

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Russ and Tiña De Maris
Russ and Tiña De Maris
Russ and Tiña went from childhood tent camping to RVing in the 1980s when the ground got too hard. They've been tutored in the ways of RVing (and RV repair) by a series of rigs, from truck campers, to a fifth-wheel, and several travel trailers. In addition to writing scores of articles on RVing topics, they've also taught college classes for folks new to RVing. They authored the book, RV Boondocking Basics.

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4 Comments

Gary B
5 months ago

If this is traditionally the slow time or year for RV purchases, isn’t this to be expected?

Bob
5 months ago
Reply to  Gary B

Someone looking for a new RV, may want to wait for the new models, even though some are on the lots now. Plus, depending on the area, no one wants to buy one and have to store it right away.
Used to be the same with cars. Now the automakers are getting the new models earlier. Some were advertising them three months ago.

Cancelproof
5 months ago

Nice clean report Russ n Tina.
I would submit that perhaps with interest rates dropping (3 cuts in 6 months) and a good chance of 2 or 3 more rate cuts early 2026, some buyers are just waiting for a better finance rate.
Thanks for all the content you continue to provide.

😎✌️

Vince S
5 months ago

Interestingly, Canadian shipments were up 6.7% YTD September compared to YTD September 2024. If folks truly are refusing to go South in winter in addition to traveling internationally, it begs a question of why all those shipments just to store.

SOURCE: CRVA – RV News