Why You Shouldn’t Miss The RV Shows This Winter

For many RVers winter signifies the end of the season until the blossoming of spring, where warmer winds and bright sunshine prevail. However, when one opportunity is lost (temporarily) another is gained.

RV associations and regional event producers across North America spend months preparing for the highly-anticipated RV show season–usually from early autumn to late spring–and they are events you don’t want to miss. One of the strongest indicators of an exciting show season stems from the annual National RV Trade Show in Louisville, KY., where RV manufacturers from every sector of the industry roll out their best and brightest, working with dealers in preparation for the new selling season.

Manufacturers offer several features and options to accommodate many activities.

If you‘re a newbie or a veteran roadster, the winter shows is where it’s all at. Whether you want to shop the new RV models and floorplans, or inquire about upgrading to a new hitch system, you will undoubtedly find what you are looking for.

“Units are continuing to be lighter in weight and where trailers are concerned, they are very competitively-priced,” said Kevin Broom, Director of Media Relations for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). “We are also seeing technology and features that were once only offered in higher-end motor coaches coming into all types of units. These include multiple slideouts, flatscreen TVs, and DVDs. All of these features now run throughout pretty much the entire line of RVs.”

With the added value, manufacturers are also presenting a diverse range of floorplans, ensuring they have a range of product to meet the demands of just about any activity an RVer wants to enjoy.

“If a consumer likes to tailgate, go off-roading with an ATV or take family and friends on a trip, there are different floorplans available that can accommodate all of these activities, ” says Broom. “That is just one of the key ways manufacturers are effectively meeting the specific needs of the customer.”

There are also features that were once only offered in higher-end motor coaches coming into all types of units.

Manufacturers are also continuing their efforts of offering units that are lighter and easier to tow, making them ideal to haul with cross-over SUVs, light trucks, and minivans.

A perfect example is the popular compact tear-drop-style and conventional hard-sided trailers that have become popular due to their ease of towing. Further simplicity is provided by the increased use of digital technology, which is now featured in many trailers and motorhomes across the spectrum.

Even if a consumer is not looking to upgrade to a new unit or is not ready for the RV lifestyle yet, visiting the shows this season is the ideal means of collecting information.

Many events throughout the U.S. and Canada offer special show incentives, increased online interaction, along with a range of seminars, plus after-market product and tourism exhibitors that can further enhance your time on the road. Photos courtesy of the RVIA

Steve Fennell