Peak vacation season is officially underway for the summer, meaning millions of Americans will be off on RV road trips, boating excursions, and off-roading adventures. Here’s a look at how your recent or prospective customers may plan to travel with their recreational vehicles.
RVing Is a Popular Way to Vacation
1. 72 million Americans plan to take an RV trip in 2025, made up by 36% of Millennials and 25% of Gen Z, showing increasing RV usage among younger generations. (RVIA)2. RV shipments soared 13.9% in Q1 2025, totaling 97,848 units. (RVIA)
3. 81.1 million Americans went camping in 2024, including 5.8 million first-timers. (The Dyrt)
4. Over 53% of campers say they prefer camping in an RV, trailer, or camper van, reflecting the continued rise of “glamping” and hybrid experiences. (The Dyrt)
June’s long days and mild nights make it an ideal month to visit state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds alike. Whether they travel with a towable travel trailer or a fully equipped motorhome, Americans are embracing the RV lifestyle as an affordable, self-contained way to explore.
Boating Stays Afloat in the Outdoor Recreation Boom
5. Boating-related spending reached $55 billion in 2024 and is expected to rise 3% to 5% in 2025. (NMMA)6. 85 million Americans head out on the water each year, making boating a cornerstone of the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy. (NMMA)
7. 87% of respondents to a 2024 Boaters Survey said they spend six or more days per month on the water during summer months. (McMichael)
Whether cruising through inland lakes, fishing offshore, or relaxing on a pontoon with family and friends, the promise of boating adventures remains strong for summer 2025.
Powersports and Personal Transport Vehicles Are On the Rise
8. The U.S. powersports market reached $39.95 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a 5.7% rate annually through 2034. Consumer interest in ATVs, side-by-sides, and other off-road vehicles is behind much of this growth. (Precedence Research)
9. The global golf cart market was valued at $2 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand to $3.29 billion by 2032, with North America accounting for more than half the share. (Fortune Business Insights)
From dune buggies carving desert trails to golf carts gliding through beachside communities, Americans find flexible and fun ways to get around.
With the season already surging, and two major holiday weekends still ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a busy year for outdoor recreation. When new buyers visit your dealership, ensure you understand what adventures they’re planning. Help educate them on optimal features, flexible financing, and protection plans to help them take advantage of what the great outdoors has to offer — whether it’s a scenic RV trip, a thrilling ride through the backcountry, or a serene day on the water.