RV Owner Demographics: An Overview Of The Happy Camper

The Go RVing RV Owner Demographic Profile is the most comprehensive study of RV ownership ever conducted, providing deep insights and perspectives on the demographics and ownership habits of RV Owners, Former RV Owners, and RV Intenders. The study identified seven distinct clusters based on RV owners’ unique motivations, needs, and habits.

One of the clusters, known as the “Happy Campers,” makes up 3% of RVers. On average, they use their RVs 180 days out of the year and during 75% of their vacation time. Described as snowbirds, they embrace RV travel for half the year to escape from both the weather and their household budget. With that said, Happy Campers are also open to traveling no matter the season, with 76% hitting the road in the spring and 83% in the summer. Likewise, 74% travel in the fall and 67% in the winter.

Common reasons for Happy Campers to travel in an RV include visiting a location with natural beauty, controlling their own itinerary, and spending time outdoors and in nature. Popular hobbies among this cluster when they’re on the road include outdoor sports such as hiking, fishing, and water recreational activities. For accommodations, 55% stay at a private campground, 35% stay at a state park, and 31% at a RV resort.

There are two subcategories of the Happy Campers: the Movers and Shakers and Rest and Relaxation. The first, the Movers and Shakers, make up 45% of the Happy Campers. They enjoy going on adventures, visiting locations with natural beauty, and are often on the road for half of the year. The Rest and Relaxation category, however, view RV travel as an escape. They may relocate to an RV resort for half of the year and seek out opportunities to unwind and avoid vacation hassles. They make up 55% of the Happy Campers.

The Happy Camper’s demographics are 56% are female and 44% are male. 49% are retired and, of those still in the workforce, 50% make under $65,000. 67% are over age 55 and 84% live with no children at home.

There is one final cluster that we will be exploring in the coming weeks. Check out our overview of the clusters here.

Members of the RV Industry Association can view the full study here.