HIPSTERS MAKE ‘VANLIFE’ AN ASPIRATIONAL PHENOMENON

Lately, RVs have taken on a whole new life with many different sizes and options, add-ons and innovations. So what can adventure-hungry travelers expect to see in 2018? GoRVing.com editors have the rundown. Expected trends: smaller RVs; unique floorplans; integrated tech; #Vanlife attitudes and influencers making the camper cool again.

Smaller RVs are a big thing

Many RV manufacturers are banking on a rise in small RV usage by designing and developing trailers to suit. A growing selection of tear-drop shaped trailers are popping up, new single-bed “tiny trailers” are trending, and trailers that are a bit more utilitarian with no sleeping quarters are hitting lots. Smaller size means more tow-vehicle options, opening the door to a larger category of campers keeping their mid-sized sedans. These little units can often go wherever you’d like to take them, meaning an easier time finding that perfect spot in the woods or beside the pristine lake.

RV/Camper dealers can consider appealing to women by featuring these smaller, tiny-house-like offerings. The newest AudienceSCAN study showed 42% of RV/Camper Shoppers are female.

Unique Floorplans

Floorplans are one of the first things shoppers look for when hunting the perfect RV. These blueprints are a great way for models to come to life and differentiate models from competitors. You should expect to see kitchen islands that add a bit more counter space, pop-out benches, living rooms where bedrooms normally would be, bunks you never thought could fit, and exterior cooking spaces.

A cool floorplan could look even cooler in a mobile ad! The latest AudienceSCAN research revealed 44% of RV/Camper Shoppers took action after seeing mobile app ads and/or text message ads in the past month.

New Technology

It won’t be uncommon to see a few things popping up in nearly every rig on the showroom floor in 2018. LED awnings have practically become standard, but some now include wind sensors, tucking themselves away if it gets too gusty. RV automation is making its way into the fold with new central control systems and apps that automate different elements of an RV, such as lighting, heating, air conditioning, awnings and entertainment systems. And finally, advances in solar and generator technology have come a long way with lithium ion batteries and more sustainable ways of generating power.

Showing off the new “smart” features and integrated technology could gain attention through social media. The latest AudienceSCAN survey found 46% of RV/Camper Shoppers took action after seeing social network ads in the past month.

#Vanlife all around

You’ve seen it in your Instagram feed and there’s no question that #Vanlife is in full force. Nearly anyone who has the opportunity to work remotely can pick up and go at a moment’s notice, while still be “on the clock.” Perhaps this is why many have purchased that fully equipped Class B campervan and headed off to explore the unknown. Today, “vanlifers” are practically a cult status, having outrigged their unit with a modern rustic charm and just enough amenities to be comfortable, yet the right amount of luxury to make it all worthwhile.