Month: January 2025

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Dyrt, the only camping app with all of the public, private and free camping locations in the United States, announced the release of its 2025 Camping Report Presented by Toyota Trucks. Toyota has partnered with The Dyrt for the second consecutive year to create the most comprehensive look at the latest trends, topics and figures that drive the U.S. camping industry.

“In a wild year of economic and political uncertainty, it heartens me to think: We will always camp,” writes The Dyrt founder Sarah Smith in an introductory letter to the report. “Some trends may come and go, but the need to connect with nature — and to connect with one another in nature — is what helps humans stay grounded.”

As always, the report is compiled from the results of surveys conducted with three groups — thousands of members of The Dyrt camper community, a representative sample of U.S. residents, and camping property managers across all 50 states. According to the findings, 81.1 million Americans camped in 2024 with 5.8 million first-timers making their camping debut. Since 2021, more than 25 million Americans have gone camping for the first time.

“Increasing access to the outdoors is a key part of our mission here at The Dyrt,” continues Smith. “My favorite stat in this year’s report: Cancellations and no-shows dramatically decreased last year, which means there was less wasted campsite inventory and more people enjoying the great outdoors.”

Only 58.9% of campers said they used all their reservations in 2023, and that number rose to 70.7% last year. But finding an available campsite to book continues to be a major challenge. From 2019 to 2022, the number of campers who reported difficulty finding a campsite to book rose from 10.6% to 58.4%. After falling to 45.5% in 2023, it bounced back to 56.1% in 2024.

“Campsites are being added at private campgrounds all over the country to accommodate the growing number of campers,” says The Dyrt CEO Kevin Long. “I think the difficulty in finding sites these days is more concentrated in the highly competitive public campgrounds and at certain sought-after properties and parks that have gained a level of fame in recent years.”

The Dyrt’s 2025 Camping Report Presented by Toyota Trucks once again includes findings on camping vehicles and drivers’ preferences. More than half (53.4%) of campers say their preferred type of camping involves a vehicle such as an RV, trailer or camper van.

“The real start of every camping trip is the moment you get out on the road,” says Kaylea Spurgin, Senior Media Analyst, Toyota Motor North America. “It can be a simple family weekend getaway or a solo cross-country road trip, but either way people need a vehicle they can depend on. From highways to backroads, Toyota Trucks are the perfect camping companion.”

Click here to read The Dyrt’s 2025 Camping Report Presented by Toyota Trucks.

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RV Industry Association (RVIA) President & CEO Craig Kirby and Thetford Executive Vice President of North America Mary Pouliot, who’s the RVIA chair, join Rick Kessler and Sherm Goldenberg of RVBusiness for this episode of Capitol Talk. The discussion touches on RVIA’s initiatives for 2025, a look at the market, an update on the California Air Resource Board’s actions, and a preview of the RVIA Leadership Conference coming up in early March.

The RVBusiness Capitol Talk video series is sponsored by Airxcel.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is the latest list of RV and RV-related recalls compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Per strict NHTSA protocols, manufacturers will next notify its dealer partners of the recall notice. Each notice will include details of the affected vehicles as well as the appropriate remedy.

Forest River Inc. is recalling 18 2025 East to West Ahara fifth wheel trailers. The water heater exhaust is ventilated directly under the slideroom, allowing carbon monoxide to enter the vehicle. Owners are advised not to use the water heater until the remedy is performed. Dealers will replace the water heater, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Feb. 26. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-264-6664. Forest River’s number for this recall is 503-1887.

The post NHTSA Releases its Most Recent Installment of RV Recalls first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

REI Co-op president & CEO, Eric Artz, today announced that he will retire in March as CEO, marking a new chapter in the co-op’s 87-year history. Mary Beth Laughton, a former REI Board Director and seasoned retail leader, will join REI as president on Feb. 3, before assuming full CEO responsibilities on March 31, according to a release. 

Laughton has held leadership roles at Nike, Athleta and Sephora. Her experience and personal passion balance strategic vision for the future of retail, innovation and operational rigor, love for the outdoors, and appreciation for the co-op’s unique culture, the release continued. She has also held board roles with Impossible Foods and Instacart. During the planned handover period, Laughton will be out on the road and in stores and distribution centers, building connections with employees, partners and community members. 

“Eric has led and stabilized REI through some of the most challenging years the retail sector and our co-op ever faced. REI is in a strong position today because he always kept our purpose, values, and people as his north star,” said Chris Carr, chair of the REI Board of Directors. “Mary Beth has the ideal experience to build on this foundation and to lead REI forward into our next chapter. The world needs a strong REI, and we are confident Mary Beth will hit the ground running.” 

“Serving you and this enduring organization has been the honor of my professional life,” said Artz in a letter to employees this morning. “Being outside means something different for everyone and our job is not to tell people what that looks like. It is to show one another and to welcome others, always making time outside more accessible to more people in more ways. That is worth fighting for.” 

“No other company balances purpose and performance quite like REI, and we must ensure it thrives for generations to come,” said Laughton. “That is a big responsibility – one I embrace with utmost respect for our millions of members and the thousands of employees whose passion for life outside and deep expertise set the co-op apart. I know that we will go further together and cannot wait to join you and build our future.”   

As REI moves through this transition, the Board and executive leadership team remain focused on ensuring stability for its employees, members, and partners while building on the growth the co-op saw at the end of 2024. REI expects to meet its 2024 goals of break-even operating profit (Pre-Dividend Operating Income) and near break-even Free Cash Flow. This is a significant improvement versus 2023 for both metrics. 

About the REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all. 

The post REI Names Mary Beth Laughton as New President & CEO first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

CASTLE ROCK, Colo. – RVi has introduced RVi GrabPads to its line of RV products as an innovative solution designed to fit 8- to 12-inch jack feet. These permanent-mount pads eliminate the need for retailers to stock numerous part numbers; just two adjustable universal part numbers cover a wide range of needs, according to a release. “Our goal at RVi has always been to provide smart, practical solutions that make life easier for our partners. The GrabPads simplify inventory management while delivering the reliability and versatility our customers expect. It’s a win-win for retailers and users alike,” said National Sales Director Joe Wood.

The post RVi Introduces ‘GrabPads’ Universal Permanent Jack Pad first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ELKHART, Ind. – Creative Products Group (CPG Brands) is adding the extensive lighting catalog of Dream Lighting and D-Lite to the aftermarket, according to a press release.

This new opportunity will bring Dream Lighting’s specialized LED lighting products into CPG Brands’ comprehensive line of innovative and high-quality RV parts and accessories. It will also establish CPG Brands as the new provider of Dream Lighting interior and D-Lite exterior lights to distributors, dealers, and consumers in the aftermarket space, the release stated.

“Partnering with Dream Lighting will bring this LED line of interior and exterior lighting to our current customers and into normal distribution channels for the aftermarket. Their innovation and styling make these lights really desirable and Dream Lighting’s commitment to the RV industry will keep their market share strong going forward,” said Chris Carpenter, CPG Brands’ business development director. 

“The entire team at Dream Lighting/D-Lite is very excited with the new partnership we have established with everyone at Creative Products Group. Having served primarily the RV OEM’s the past 12-14 years, the timing was perfect to begin to offer our interior and exterior LED lighting into the RV aftermarket space. We look forward to a very strong, positive relationship with CPG Brands, their distribution partners, and dealers moving forward,” said Nathan Baer, Dream Lighting Account Manager

“Whether replacing or upgrading RV parts and accessories, CPG Brands is the source for the lighting options. Since 2008, CPG Brands has worked hard to bring high-quality, innovative parts and accessories to dealers and customers in all the modern styles and finishes desired,” according to the release. 

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From WILX: You can tour hundreds of RVs, including folding campers, motorhomes, travel trailers, toy haulers, fifth-wheels, travel trailers, and a park model, ranging in price from less than $12,000 to more than $500,000 at the 59th Annual MARVAC Detroit RV & Camping Show, which is Jan. 29 to Feb. 2 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Mich.

This show is more of an experience as there will be on-site dealer RV financing and RV rentals available. There will also be multiple booth exhibitors featuring parts, accessories, and campground information make this the complete RV show experience. Consumers can pick up the 2025 Michigan RV & Campgrounds directory and other travel publications.

There will also be educational seminars open to show attendees. Tom Daldin and Jim Edelman from Under the RadarMichigan will be presenting stories from their adventures around Michigan on Thursday at 6 pm and Sunday at 2 pm.

The post 59th Annual Detroit RV & Camping Show Opens Wednesday first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Hipcamp, a growing community of good-natured people and the most comprehensive resource for unique outdoor stays, offered the following five predictions for 2025. HipCamp works with landowners to offer tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping — everywhere from national parks to blueberry farms. By creating opportunities for landowners to earn money hosting nature lovers, Hipcamp works to support those who care for the land and get more people out under the stars.

1) Glampification of the industry driven by budget-conscious families

• Hipcamp Prediction: Family glamping bookings will double in 2025.
• What: Glamping continues to draw budget-conscious families away from hotels and B&Bs. Amenities and add-ons will become standard for campers as they look for more engaging camp experiences.
• Supporting Hipcamp data:
  • Families are the fastest growing segment of the glamping market, with bookings increasing 50% faster than glamping trips without kids.
  • 87% YoY increase in searches for luxury amenities
  • Hammock rentals growing 77% YoY
  • Sauna experiences are growing 71% YoY

2) Mobile apps will drive an increase in same day, on the go bookings

• Hipcamp Prediction: Over 500,000 Hipcampers will book trips via their phones in 2025.
• What: Trip planning moves away from desktop search engines and towards highly personalized mobile offerings. Booking via mobile allows for easier on-the-go decision making and access to curated campsites based on your camping preferences.
• Supporting Hipcamp data:
  • With over 1 million app downloads per year, the majority of Hipcamp bookings now take place offline via the Hipcamp mobile app
  • Same-day bookings are growing 33% YoY

3) Storms roll in but adventures roll on

• Hipcamp Prediction: Weather insurance uptake will double on Hipcamp in 2025 and become widespread within the industry.
• What: Weather insurance will become a must-have in 2025, increasing camper confidence throughout the year and growing all-season bookings.
• Supporting Hipcamp data:
  • Prior to the launch of Hipcamp Weather Guarantee, bad weather was responsible for up to 40% of cancellations.
  • Sensible Weather’s research shows 76% of customers feel more confident booking a trip with a Weather Guarantee and 82% continue with their trip even if they receive a refund due to bad weather.

4) Agritourism goes mainstream

• Hipcamp Prediction: More farmers than ever will introduce camping on their land for the first time in 2025
• What: From Santa Barbara, California to New South Wales, Australia, policies that support and protect agritourism activities and farmstays are passing all over the world. With lower barriers to entry and fast growing interest, this will be a key growth area in 2025.
• Supporting Hipcamp data:
  • 50% of trips in the US and 75% of trips in AU are currently hosted on working lands.
  • Last year Hipcamp saw continued growth in Agritourism activities, including guided farm tours growing 49%, and onsite fossicking & foraging growing 44%.

5) Eyes up, skywatching soars in 2025

• Hipcamp Prediction: Dubbed “Astrotourism,” we predict  60% more campers will book a trip in 2025 specifically to see an astronomical event.
• What: Hipcamp bookings spiked during the 2024 Solar Eclipse. This year, a peak in the sun’s 11-year solar cycle will make 2025 the ‘Year of the Aurora.’ Building on the excitement from last year, we anticipate both new and returning campers will seek out Aurora sightings, indulging in the beauty of the night sky.
• Supporting Hipcamp data:
  • Searches with Hipcamp’s Dark Sky Map Layer increase over 300% during meteor showers and astronomical events.
  • Last year Hipcamp camp experienced a 52% higher engagement rate on content around Celestial events.
  • A Total Lunar Eclipse in March will create an early spike in media attention, fueling momentum for spring and summer bookings.

The post Rise of ‘Glamping’ Among HipCamp’s Predictions for 2025 first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Love’s Travel Stops is heading into 2025 with a strong focus on strategic growth and innovation, aiming to strengthen its position as the premier one-stop-shop for professional truck drivers and four-wheel, RV and EV customers, according to a release. 

“As we enter the year, we’re committed to continuing to enhance the customer experience for all,” said Shane Wharton, president of Love’s. “This year, we’re excited to introduce new and updated locations, innovative food and drinks and continued improvement of the services and amenities we offer. With our continued focus on the evolving needs of customers, we’re confident we’ll provide an even better experience across our network in 2025.”

Love’s will continue to grow and refresh its nationwide network of locations with 70 locations that will be new or updated in 2025. The company plans to start construction of 20 new stores and begin updating 50existing locations under its Strategic Remodel Initiative (SRI). Launched in 2022, the SRI reflects Love’s commitment to maintaining the freshest fleet of locations on the interstate. As part of the SRI, the company will update its turnpike location in Stroud, Oklahoma, the first of the turnpike locations to be remodeled that were acquired in 2023. With new locations and SRI efforts this year, more than half of Love’s 655 locations will be newly constructed or remodeled by 2035.

Love’s is growing its food and drink offerings to make every stop even more inviting. This year, Love’s will continue to expand its Fresh Kitchen program through anew Culinary Innovation Center being led by Greg Ekman, the company’s first director of fresh kitchen strategy and growth. Located in Oklahoma City, the centerwill be used to develop and test food offerings including tacos, salads, sandwiches, snack trays and more. In addition to new fresh food offerings, customers will also see the continued expansion of Love’s branded items including new fresh juice options, candy and flavored popcorn.

Love’s remains one of the largest quick service restaurant operators in the country with 19 concepts that are owned or leased. Between the two, the company will open its 1,000th location this year. Love’s will continue to improve speed of service for customers with the addition of “order ahead” to the Love’s Connect app at several locations, including more than 100 Arby’s. Additionally, all quick service restaurants will continue to use technology to improve customer service. Computer monitors track key performance metrics in real-time including greet times, order processing and the time it takes for food handoff, reducing food delivery by 14 seconds on average last year.

This year, Love’s will continue to add locations and amenities to cater to the needs of RV customers, ensuring a top-tier experience. The company will add 83 hookups to 17 locations, surpassing the 100-location mark. Love’s established network of convenient, safe and dog-friendly locations makes it easy for customers needing somewhere to stay on the way to their destination. Unique to Love’s, customers can use the Love’s Connect app to reserve a space, check-in and turn on utilities.

Love’s will also continue growing its network of EV charging stations through National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) grants. In 2024, the company was awarded $83 million for the construction of chargers in 13 states. This year, construction is expected to start on fast chargers at Love’s locations in eight statesincluding Alabama, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Professional truck drivers will appreciate Love’s ongoing support, featuring new amenities and a commitment to addressing the critical shortage of truck parking in the U.S. In 2025, the company plans to add approximately 1,000 new truck parking spaces to its network, surpassing 50,000 spaces across the country. Love’s will provide additional support to drivers by adding 12 maintenance bays and six emergency roadside vehicles.

Finally, Love’s knows providing the best experience possible starts with hiring and retaining top talent. The company will increase veteran hiring by 10% in 2025 and launch a hiring program for military spouses. Love’s prides itself in offering growth opportunities for all team members, including its recently launched Fuel Your Growth with Love’s program through Guild, which offers free education opportunities ranging from GEDs to advanced degrees. 

The post Love’s Travel Stops Planning More RV Accommodations first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.