The COVID-19 pandemic has likely forever changed the business landscape — and not for much good. But the RV industry is an exception among the tragedies of long-time companies closing, furloughed employees and depleting workforces.
RVing has provided a new part-time and full-time opportunity for travelers who are increasingly weary of the restrictions of home stay drug the coronavirus. Sales are up.
The video below and its commentary on the CNBC network provides an excellent overview of the industry. It discusses ownership of different types of RVs and vans and the major companies that manufacturer them.
RV industry quality control a concern
With the RV ownership increase, the feature also reports on limited campgrounds for the influx of RV travelers.
Several industry experts, including Chuck Woodbury of RVTravel.com, dealership personnel and RV owners provide commentary. It complements the 15 1/2-minute presentation’s narration.
As publisher of the industry’s largest website, Woodbury expresses his concerns about quality control. There aren’t enough skilled technicians working on new vehicle manufacturing or the repair of used RVs.
Here’s the opening audio synopsis to the video:
“In the years that followed the financial crisis, sales of RVs began booming. Once considered a pretty dowdy way to travel, RVs have benefitted from slick industry ad campaigns, relatively low gas prices, and a renewed interest among Americans of all ages.
“Data indicate first-time buyers are pouring into RV dealerships and shows, looking for their own happy home on the road. But long-timers say new buyers need to do their research before buying, and understand what the RV life is really about.”
Woodbury, a long-time RVer throughout the United States and internationally, stresses the potential enjoyment of the lifestyle. But he also warns of its potential pitfalls.
“It can be wonderful,” says Woodbury. “But people need to do their homework first just to make sure it’s a dream come true rather than a nightmare.”
Article Last Updated: July 29, 2020.
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A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004.
In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida.
An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.