By Russ and Tiña De Maris
Why RV, and who is RVing? If statistics are something you look for, here are some that might interest you:
A 2011 vacation cost comparison study showed that a family of four can save 23 to 59 percent on vacation costs by traveling in an RV, even after factoring in ownership costs and fuel.
Another survey revealed these perceptions of RVing:
• Couples who RV develop stronger bonds with each other — 68 percent
• RVing allows you to be more physically active — 67 percent
• RVing provides an escape from everyday pressure and stress — 65 percent
• Kids who travel with their families by RV receive educational benefits — 58 percent
• Traveling by RV reduces exposure to illnesses and other health risks — 56 percent
Here are other RVing-related statistics drawn from a variety of sources.
• Median income of RVers: $62,000
• 39 percent of RVers had children under 18 living at home.
• RV owners aged 35 to 54, 11.2 percent in 2011. This makes them the largest segment of RV owners in the US.
• Ownership among those aged 55 or older, 9.3 percent in 2011.
The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) estimates there are as many as 30 million RV enthusiasts nationwide, including RV renters.
The RV rental business is a $350 million industry, according to the U.S. Census of Retail Trade and the RV Rental Association.
There are more than 12,000 RV-related businesses in the U.S. with combined annual revenues of more than $37.5 billion.
##RVT767