In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are naturally cautious about where they stay while travelling and how they get there. This may be why RV sales and rentals are seeing a surge in the US, as travel restrictions and social distancing issues have affected most other forms of travel.

Peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, RVshare, is reporting the highest recorded booking numbers in its history, with a 1000% rise in RV rental bookings since early April. A recent survey among RVshare users found preferences for both outdoor travel, destination proximity and booking flexibility within the next few months.

When planning a trip in the next three months, 93% of those surveyed want to avoid crowds and 84% plan to travel with their partner or immediate family instead of friends or extended family. Approximately 11 million households in the US own an RV, or recreational vehicle, and the sales market is also showing signs of strong demand as travellers seek options that minimise the risk of catching the virus. As national parks begin opening back up again, RVs could appeal as a way to get there to enjoy being outdoors.

A survey by MMGY Global for the US Travel Association indicated that 68% of people feel safe travelling in a personal vehicle at present, compared with 11% who feel safe flying internationally. Travelling in an RV offers people a way to enjoy nature on a road trip, which can give them a sense of both freedom and personal control.

RVshare was founded in 2013 and lists more than 100,000 RVs across the US. Check out its website here.

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