RV Rental Companies Forecast Growth in 2006 Rentals
���The majority of members report that 2006 will be a better year than last year for RV rentals,��� said RVRA Chairman Bert Alanko. ���Most people will not let higher fuel costs interfere with their vacation plans in an RV. When you do the math, gas prices are a small percentage of a vacation���s cost.���
In preparation for a big summer of RV travel, RV rental companies are adding units. Survey respondents report the average rental fleet size is expected to increase by 14 percent in 2006. RVRA members report more RV trailers will be available for rent than in previous years.
���While motorhome rentals remain extremely popular, RV trailer rentals are growing. Travel trailer and folding camping trailers give people the opportunity to enjoy an RV vacation using their own sports utility vehicle, van, pickup, or sedan,��� Alanko said.
The survey shows that the majority (64 percent) of RV rental companies rent for more than 10 months a year. Survey respondents expect RV rentals by foreign visitors to make up eight percent of all North American RV rentals in 2006.
With today���s increasing demand for RV rentals, it is a good idea to book your rental RV far in advance, especially for holidays, according to Alanko. ���Don���t wait until the last minute -- if you���re thinking about renting, book now so you can get the type of RV when you want it,��� he said.
For anyone looking to plan an RV rental vacation this year, information and resources are available at www.rvra.org. This site offers an online directory that has a state-by-state listing of more than 300 rental companies across the U.S. and Canada. The site features consumer tips on renting -- including advice on selecting the proper unit.
RV renters can also get a free DVD on RV travel by calling 888-GO-RVING or by visiting the www.gorving.com Web site. The DVD contains useful introductory information on the type of RV units available.
RVRA is the rental division of the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), the national association representing RV retailers. The association���s members include RV dealers, RV rental operations, and RV AfterMarket locations.