RV sales soar despite high gas prices
Gas prices are climbing higher again, but some Americans are still choosing to spend their summer vacations on the road, specifically in motor homes and trailers. The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association reports that close to 400,000 RVs were sold in 2006, the most in 28 years.
In addition, an RV dealer in Pueblo West says his business is $300,000 ahead in sales compared to last year. "It's taken off more than I expected especially with gas prices, you really think that its going to affect the RV industry and there are certain parts that taken hits, but progressively its just slowly gotten better ever single year so far," said Ryan Zabukovic, Manager of Zabukovic Motors.
Even though most RVs are gas guzzlers, owners say they save money in other areas. For example, RV owners point out they don't have to pay for hotel rooms.
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Showing posts with label Gas Price. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gas Price. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Friday, July 6, 2007
RV sales up despite high gas prices
RV sales up despite high gas prices
By Oren Dorell, USA TODAY
Americans are defying high gas prices and jumping into gas guzzling recreational vehicles for their summer vacations.
Two of the largest owners and managers of RV campgrounds in the USA said their lots are booked this July 4th vacation week and much of the summer.
Sales of RVs have shot up 22% in the past three calendar years. Last year 390,500 RVs were sold, the most in 28 years, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. This year they are on track to dip slightly, RVIA says.
"This week will be one of the busiest if not the busiest for the entire KOA system," says Shane Ott, president and chief operating officer of Kampgrounds of America, the USA's largest campground chain with 450 campgrounds and 72,000 camp sites.
RV parks say changes in how the vehicles are used along with a rise in ownership among affluent people is driving higher sales. The average cost of a new motor home is $260,000 says Richard Coon, president of the RVIA.
"When you're talking about motor homes, those people don't care about gas prices," he says.
Jerry Gelinas, vice president of marketing for Thousand Trails, which manages 81 campgrounds across the country, says customers tend to be baby boomers, retirees and young families with a healthy amount of discretionary income.
Gelinas says RVers increasingly want to use parks as destinations rather than mere stopovers. Parks are responding by offering more attractions such as pools, tennis courts and live entertainment. Rather than cooking nightly over propane stoves families can often buy prepared foods and takeout.
Coon says that compared to all the other expenses of a vacation, such as motels and restaurants, RVs are "still an economic way to go." If gas went up a $1, a family traveling 1,000 miles in a motor home that gets about 10 mpg would spend $100 more on gas, he says.
That's not to say RV owners are ignoring the cost of fuel.
Families are saving money by "going shorter distances and staying longer," says David Woodworth of Fish Camp, Calif., an RV historian.
Industry surveys show that owners have also slowed down to 55 mph or 60 mph, to conserve fuel, Coon says. Fuel mileage is "not great," but it's better than it was 10 years ago, Woodworth says.
The industry has introduced more efficient engines, and new materials that make motor homes and trailers lighter. Felix Kramer, founder of the California Cars Initiative, which promotes energy efficient vehicles, isn't surprised gas prices aren't scaring off RV owners.
"In terms of the percentage of people's annual income, expensive gasoline is not all that much," Kramer says.
But the 18 million RV owners plugging in every night "would be ideal plug-in hybrid candidates," he says. They would no longer need expensive on-board generators to operate appliances and they'd have silent, emissions free vacations.
Alex Kouris, 38, set out June 22 from Marengo, Ill., with his wife, Rachel, and two sons in a 34-foot-long motor home for a trip that will end Sunday. The 90-gallon tank cost about $200 to fill and he expects to pump in another $800 of diesel fuel the whole trip.
"You kind of get used to it so you kind of budget it in," he says.
By Oren Dorell, USA TODAY
Americans are defying high gas prices and jumping into gas guzzling recreational vehicles for their summer vacations.
Two of the largest owners and managers of RV campgrounds in the USA said their lots are booked this July 4th vacation week and much of the summer.
Sales of RVs have shot up 22% in the past three calendar years. Last year 390,500 RVs were sold, the most in 28 years, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. This year they are on track to dip slightly, RVIA says.
"This week will be one of the busiest if not the busiest for the entire KOA system," says Shane Ott, president and chief operating officer of Kampgrounds of America, the USA's largest campground chain with 450 campgrounds and 72,000 camp sites.
RV parks say changes in how the vehicles are used along with a rise in ownership among affluent people is driving higher sales. The average cost of a new motor home is $260,000 says Richard Coon, president of the RVIA.
"When you're talking about motor homes, those people don't care about gas prices," he says.
Jerry Gelinas, vice president of marketing for Thousand Trails, which manages 81 campgrounds across the country, says customers tend to be baby boomers, retirees and young families with a healthy amount of discretionary income.
Gelinas says RVers increasingly want to use parks as destinations rather than mere stopovers. Parks are responding by offering more attractions such as pools, tennis courts and live entertainment. Rather than cooking nightly over propane stoves families can often buy prepared foods and takeout.
Coon says that compared to all the other expenses of a vacation, such as motels and restaurants, RVs are "still an economic way to go." If gas went up a $1, a family traveling 1,000 miles in a motor home that gets about 10 mpg would spend $100 more on gas, he says.
That's not to say RV owners are ignoring the cost of fuel.
Families are saving money by "going shorter distances and staying longer," says David Woodworth of Fish Camp, Calif., an RV historian.
Industry surveys show that owners have also slowed down to 55 mph or 60 mph, to conserve fuel, Coon says. Fuel mileage is "not great," but it's better than it was 10 years ago, Woodworth says.
The industry has introduced more efficient engines, and new materials that make motor homes and trailers lighter. Felix Kramer, founder of the California Cars Initiative, which promotes energy efficient vehicles, isn't surprised gas prices aren't scaring off RV owners.
"In terms of the percentage of people's annual income, expensive gasoline is not all that much," Kramer says.
But the 18 million RV owners plugging in every night "would be ideal plug-in hybrid candidates," he says. They would no longer need expensive on-board generators to operate appliances and they'd have silent, emissions free vacations.
Alex Kouris, 38, set out June 22 from Marengo, Ill., with his wife, Rachel, and two sons in a 34-foot-long motor home for a trip that will end Sunday. The 90-gallon tank cost about $200 to fill and he expects to pump in another $800 of diesel fuel the whole trip.
"You kind of get used to it so you kind of budget it in," he says.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Boat and RV sales not suffering, despite high gas prices
Boat and RV sales not suffering, despite high gas prices
5/30/2007 4:18 PM
By: Jessica Mokhiber
-- Click to Watch Video --
Boat and RV sales
Temperatures are rising, and more and more people are going to be heading out on their boats and in their RVs for the summer. But with the gas prices rising, are sales of boats and RVs slowing down? Jessica Mokhiber caught up with some people, whose answers may surprise you.
It costs more these days to get to where you're going, and not just for cars. With gas prices at near-record highs, it also costs more for boaters and people with RVs to fill up.
Dockside Landing Boat and Yacht Owner Craig Merrell said, "First of all, it's on the news channels on a daily basis."
So you may think that less people are boating. But it seems that's not the case.
Boat N RV Warehouse owner Geoffrey Hoffman said, "It's more a conversation people have in our showroom. People talk about gas prices, but it doesn't affect a recreational purchase."
"People are still coming in. People are still coming in on vacation. People still need to get away and enjoy themselves, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to do that," said Merrell.
Hoffman, who also sells RVs, said gas prices haven't slowed down those sales either, but he thinks people may drive them less.
"Maybe on an RV, they'll leave it on the campground at the site more than they'll tow it around," Hoffman said.
But he agrees with Merrell and said in this day and age, people need their leisure time, and he thinks that's why gas prices aren't slowing down sales.
"We work really hard, and it's a stressed-out society these days, and people put a premium on their leisure time, and they work really hard for it," said Hoffman.
Merrell said, "All in all though, for experienced boaters, and people who love to boat, I don't think gas prices have affected things too much this year."
5/30/2007 4:18 PM
By: Jessica Mokhiber
-- Click to Watch Video --
Boat and RV sales
Temperatures are rising, and more and more people are going to be heading out on their boats and in their RVs for the summer. But with the gas prices rising, are sales of boats and RVs slowing down? Jessica Mokhiber caught up with some people, whose answers may surprise you.
It costs more these days to get to where you're going, and not just for cars. With gas prices at near-record highs, it also costs more for boaters and people with RVs to fill up.
Dockside Landing Boat and Yacht Owner Craig Merrell said, "First of all, it's on the news channels on a daily basis."
So you may think that less people are boating. But it seems that's not the case.
Boat N RV Warehouse owner Geoffrey Hoffman said, "It's more a conversation people have in our showroom. People talk about gas prices, but it doesn't affect a recreational purchase."
"People are still coming in. People are still coming in on vacation. People still need to get away and enjoy themselves, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to do that," said Merrell.
Hoffman, who also sells RVs, said gas prices haven't slowed down those sales either, but he thinks people may drive them less.
"Maybe on an RV, they'll leave it on the campground at the site more than they'll tow it around," Hoffman said.
But he agrees with Merrell and said in this day and age, people need their leisure time, and he thinks that's why gas prices aren't slowing down sales.
"We work really hard, and it's a stressed-out society these days, and people put a premium on their leisure time, and they work really hard for it," said Hoffman.
Merrell said, "All in all though, for experienced boaters, and people who love to boat, I don't think gas prices have affected things too much this year."
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
RV Campgrounds Full Despite High Gas Prices
RV Campgrounds Full Despite High Gas Prices
By Josh Hinkle, Reporter
Watch Video
LINN COUNTY - The nation is still guzzling gas, despite it’s high price. The national average per gallon is $3.20. Iowa's average is even higher at $3.29.
Instead of going the distance this summer and continuously filling up, many travelers are saying goodbye to their cars and hello to an RV.
Joe and Pearl Coder say they found the right spot to vacation, only a few miles from their home. Squaw Creek Campground is just outside Cedar Rapids, and it kept them from spending their savings on gas.
County campgrounds are full and we found many of the RVers, like the coders, are also not far from home for the same reason.
It hasn't slowed everyone. Gary Ketelsen owns Ketelsen RV and sales have hit a record high, 10 percent higher than last year when gas was much cheaper. Even RV rentals are up.
"We're finding that two families are going in together to cut expenses in half," said Ketelsen.
Piloting one of these portables can be expensive. Some only get 8 miles per gallon of gas. And the rentals can run you $2,000 for a week. But, if you are going the distance, it will save on hotel costs.
While the Coders are enjoying their vacation very close to home, they say the price at the pump won't prevent them from visiting their son in New Orleans nearly a thousand miles away at the end up the summer.
They do hope the price at the pump goes down by then. But, travel agents we spoke with in the area Tuesday say the Coders are not alone.
Despite the high gas costs, most people aren't canceling their trips, especially if it's something they've had planned for a while.
http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/7734472.html
By Josh Hinkle, Reporter
Watch Video
LINN COUNTY - The nation is still guzzling gas, despite it’s high price. The national average per gallon is $3.20. Iowa's average is even higher at $3.29.
Instead of going the distance this summer and continuously filling up, many travelers are saying goodbye to their cars and hello to an RV.
Joe and Pearl Coder say they found the right spot to vacation, only a few miles from their home. Squaw Creek Campground is just outside Cedar Rapids, and it kept them from spending their savings on gas.
County campgrounds are full and we found many of the RVers, like the coders, are also not far from home for the same reason.
It hasn't slowed everyone. Gary Ketelsen owns Ketelsen RV and sales have hit a record high, 10 percent higher than last year when gas was much cheaper. Even RV rentals are up.
"We're finding that two families are going in together to cut expenses in half," said Ketelsen.
Piloting one of these portables can be expensive. Some only get 8 miles per gallon of gas. And the rentals can run you $2,000 for a week. But, if you are going the distance, it will save on hotel costs.
While the Coders are enjoying their vacation very close to home, they say the price at the pump won't prevent them from visiting their son in New Orleans nearly a thousand miles away at the end up the summer.
They do hope the price at the pump goes down by then. But, travel agents we spoke with in the area Tuesday say the Coders are not alone.
Despite the high gas costs, most people aren't canceling their trips, especially if it's something they've had planned for a while.
http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/7734472.html
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
High Gas Prices Keeping Some RV Owners Closer to Home
High Gas Prices Keeping Some RV Owners Closer to Home
May 23, 2007 05:20 AM MDT
OREGON -- The first big camping weekend of the year is just a few days away. So now that gasoline is in the $3.50 range, and diesel fuel not far behind, are people heading out or staying home? We checked Maumee Bay State Park, and found a lot of people with plans to camp this summer, but reservations about what high gas prices will do to their season.
Kathy Kazmarski of Sylvania is getting around the pinch at the pump because her RV has gas left over from a winter trip to Florida. Even if she and her husband did have to fill up, they'd still be here. "We spent a lot of money to buy a motor home and I'm not going to let it sit in a storage area," said Kazmarski. "You buy it to use it."
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Maumee Bay State Park Assistant Manager Steve Stibaner predicts only bad weather will keep people away. "We only have 24 walk-in sites and as of today, we only have 2 left," said Stibaner. "A lot of people are still coming out and we expect a full campground this weekend."
But Alan Belle of Genoa, who's staying with friends in their RV this week, has already made adjustments on his summer camping schedule. If gas stays around $3.48 a gallon for regular, it would cost about $260 to fill up a 75-gallon RV tank. "We had a nice trip planned for Colorado Springs and by the time we paid for gas for two people, it would be round trip around $800," said Belle. "So we figured we can fly and get cheap flights out there for half of that probably."
Belle's friend Bob Meilink is paying about 70 cents less per gallon because his RV is fueled by diesel. But even though he's a full-time camper, he's staying local. "We were going to go east, but now we're going to stay here and just spend the summer here at home and head back west in the fall, hoping the prices are better," said Meilink.
Gas is now more expensive than any other time in history. Analysts blame increased demand and lower refinery capacity for the jump in fuel prices.
Posted by AEB
May 23, 2007 05:20 AM MDT
OREGON -- The first big camping weekend of the year is just a few days away. So now that gasoline is in the $3.50 range, and diesel fuel not far behind, are people heading out or staying home? We checked Maumee Bay State Park, and found a lot of people with plans to camp this summer, but reservations about what high gas prices will do to their season.
Kathy Kazmarski of Sylvania is getting around the pinch at the pump because her RV has gas left over from a winter trip to Florida. Even if she and her husband did have to fill up, they'd still be here. "We spent a lot of money to buy a motor home and I'm not going to let it sit in a storage area," said Kazmarski. "You buy it to use it."
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Maumee Bay State Park Assistant Manager Steve Stibaner predicts only bad weather will keep people away. "We only have 24 walk-in sites and as of today, we only have 2 left," said Stibaner. "A lot of people are still coming out and we expect a full campground this weekend."
But Alan Belle of Genoa, who's staying with friends in their RV this week, has already made adjustments on his summer camping schedule. If gas stays around $3.48 a gallon for regular, it would cost about $260 to fill up a 75-gallon RV tank. "We had a nice trip planned for Colorado Springs and by the time we paid for gas for two people, it would be round trip around $800," said Belle. "So we figured we can fly and get cheap flights out there for half of that probably."
Belle's friend Bob Meilink is paying about 70 cents less per gallon because his RV is fueled by diesel. But even though he's a full-time camper, he's staying local. "We were going to go east, but now we're going to stay here and just spend the summer here at home and head back west in the fall, hoping the prices are better," said Meilink.
Gas is now more expensive than any other time in history. Analysts blame increased demand and lower refinery capacity for the jump in fuel prices.
Posted by AEB
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Higher gas prices not slowing down RV industry
Higher gas prices not slowing down RV industry
By Elliott Minor
ASSOCIATED PRESS
10:13 p.m. March 21, 2007
PERRY, Ga. – With gas prices climbing, the turnout at a motor-home convention in the heart of Georgia this week is much better than most outsiders would expect.
About 20,000 motor-home owners and industry representatives have gathered at the Family Motor Coach Association's 77th International Convention to kick the tires of more than 1,000 enticing new models – some costing more than $1 million and getting only 6 miles per gallon.
AdvertisementThe recreational vehicle industry has been reporting record sales for the past five years, despite rising costs at the pump. Insiders credit a growing number of baby boomers who want the gas-guzzling vehicles for retirement and younger families opting for vacations closer to home for offsetting any potential losses because of soaring fuel costs.
“There's no better way to do it,” said Bob Dalton, 70, who has owned a motor home for 30 years. “I can sleep in my own bed and I can eat my own food. I travel at my own pace. I go where I want.”
Since the association last met in Perry in March 2005, the average price of regular self-serve gasoline has increased 21 percent, from $2.10 to $2.55 per gallon, according to the Lundberg Survey of 7,000 gas stations across the country.
So far, the higher fuel prices seem to have had little, if any, impact on Americans who vacation with recreational vehicles, which include simple pop-up campers, travel trailers towed by pickup trucks or SUVs and motor homes.
“If you can afford $600,000 for a coach, what's the difference between $2.50 or $3 per gallon,” said Dalton, a military retiree. “It does affect me. I drive less and stay longer.”
Winnebago Industries Inc., one of the nation's leading motor-home manufacturers, reported a 2.2 percent decline in net income and a 3.6 percent drop in revenues in its most recent quarter, saying rising fuel prices for shaking consumer confidence. But Kevin Broom, a spokesman for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, noted that Winnebago makes only motor homes and that its earnings report was not a reflection of the whole RV industry.
The RVIA, which represents 550 manufacturers and suppliers, expects sales to dip a little this year, but 2007 still looks to be the fourth best in the past 30 years, Broom said.
He cited favorable interest rates, the success of an industry program to attract younger buyers, and a switch from flying to other modes of vacation travel since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
“RVs are the most cost effective way to vacation for a family, even when you factor in the cost of fuel,” Broom said, noting that travel expenses such as hotels, restaurants and rental cars can be avoided or reduced when using an RV.
Mark Tuggle, sales manager for Douglasville-based John Bleakley Motor Homes, Georgia's largest motor-home dealership, said younger buyers are a new phenomenon in RV sales.
“If they weren't gray headed and had handicapped sticker, salespeople would shy away from them,” Tuggle said. “Now they can be 32 years old and have two kids and you need to pay attention to them.”
The influx of younger RVers still wasn't apparent at the motor-home convention, which ends Thursday. Many were gray-haired retirees, although a few appeared to be baby boomers – people born between 1946 and 1964 who are reaching retirement age with company-sponsored 401(k) accounts and other savings.
“Baby boomers have more expendable income,” said Dave Uhlenbrock, spokesman for the motor coach association, which has 120,000 family members. “They can do what they did at home in a motor home. There are motor homes with washers and dryers, lovely shower areas, satellite TV and Wi-Fi. They call them land yachts, and they truly are.”
The models on display at the 1,700-acre convention site about 100 miles south of Atlanta ranged from small, diesel-powered models that cost about $90,000 and get 22 to 26 miles per gallon to high-end models with satellite television, leather upholstery, tile floors and marble countertops. These 40- to 42-foot mobile manors cost $600,000 to $1.3 million and have fuel economy in the single digits.
Dalton and many others stopped to admire a luxurious $382,000 motor home with a surprise inside. The 41-foot Travel Supreme gets only 6 to 8 miles per gallon, but nestled in its rear compartment is a tiny, fuel-efficient Smart car, a creation of DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes Car Group, rated at 40 mpg.
Drivers lower a ramp and back it out of the compartment for trips to monuments or grocery stores.
By Elliott Minor
ASSOCIATED PRESS
10:13 p.m. March 21, 2007
PERRY, Ga. – With gas prices climbing, the turnout at a motor-home convention in the heart of Georgia this week is much better than most outsiders would expect.
About 20,000 motor-home owners and industry representatives have gathered at the Family Motor Coach Association's 77th International Convention to kick the tires of more than 1,000 enticing new models – some costing more than $1 million and getting only 6 miles per gallon.
AdvertisementThe recreational vehicle industry has been reporting record sales for the past five years, despite rising costs at the pump. Insiders credit a growing number of baby boomers who want the gas-guzzling vehicles for retirement and younger families opting for vacations closer to home for offsetting any potential losses because of soaring fuel costs.
“There's no better way to do it,” said Bob Dalton, 70, who has owned a motor home for 30 years. “I can sleep in my own bed and I can eat my own food. I travel at my own pace. I go where I want.”
Since the association last met in Perry in March 2005, the average price of regular self-serve gasoline has increased 21 percent, from $2.10 to $2.55 per gallon, according to the Lundberg Survey of 7,000 gas stations across the country.
So far, the higher fuel prices seem to have had little, if any, impact on Americans who vacation with recreational vehicles, which include simple pop-up campers, travel trailers towed by pickup trucks or SUVs and motor homes.
“If you can afford $600,000 for a coach, what's the difference between $2.50 or $3 per gallon,” said Dalton, a military retiree. “It does affect me. I drive less and stay longer.”
Winnebago Industries Inc., one of the nation's leading motor-home manufacturers, reported a 2.2 percent decline in net income and a 3.6 percent drop in revenues in its most recent quarter, saying rising fuel prices for shaking consumer confidence. But Kevin Broom, a spokesman for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, noted that Winnebago makes only motor homes and that its earnings report was not a reflection of the whole RV industry.
The RVIA, which represents 550 manufacturers and suppliers, expects sales to dip a little this year, but 2007 still looks to be the fourth best in the past 30 years, Broom said.
He cited favorable interest rates, the success of an industry program to attract younger buyers, and a switch from flying to other modes of vacation travel since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
“RVs are the most cost effective way to vacation for a family, even when you factor in the cost of fuel,” Broom said, noting that travel expenses such as hotels, restaurants and rental cars can be avoided or reduced when using an RV.
Mark Tuggle, sales manager for Douglasville-based John Bleakley Motor Homes, Georgia's largest motor-home dealership, said younger buyers are a new phenomenon in RV sales.
“If they weren't gray headed and had handicapped sticker, salespeople would shy away from them,” Tuggle said. “Now they can be 32 years old and have two kids and you need to pay attention to them.”
The influx of younger RVers still wasn't apparent at the motor-home convention, which ends Thursday. Many were gray-haired retirees, although a few appeared to be baby boomers – people born between 1946 and 1964 who are reaching retirement age with company-sponsored 401(k) accounts and other savings.
“Baby boomers have more expendable income,” said Dave Uhlenbrock, spokesman for the motor coach association, which has 120,000 family members. “They can do what they did at home in a motor home. There are motor homes with washers and dryers, lovely shower areas, satellite TV and Wi-Fi. They call them land yachts, and they truly are.”
The models on display at the 1,700-acre convention site about 100 miles south of Atlanta ranged from small, diesel-powered models that cost about $90,000 and get 22 to 26 miles per gallon to high-end models with satellite television, leather upholstery, tile floors and marble countertops. These 40- to 42-foot mobile manors cost $600,000 to $1.3 million and have fuel economy in the single digits.
Dalton and many others stopped to admire a luxurious $382,000 motor home with a surprise inside. The 41-foot Travel Supreme gets only 6 to 8 miles per gallon, but nestled in its rear compartment is a tiny, fuel-efficient Smart car, a creation of DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes Car Group, rated at 40 mpg.
Drivers lower a ramp and back it out of the compartment for trips to monuments or grocery stores.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Cruise America RV Combats Rising Gas Prices With Discount Mileage
MESA, AZ -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 03/14/07 -- While travelers nationwide grumble about paying more at the pump, RV vacationers can breathe a sigh of relief. Now through March 31, Cruise America RV rental is offering half-priced mileage charges on all new reservations for RV travel through the end of 2007.
Available at all of Cruise America's more than 130 nationwide RV rental locations, this limited-time discount lowers the mileage cost on any Cruise America RV to just 16 cents -- down from the standard rate of 32 cents per mile.
While gasoline prices soar, with nationwide averages reaching $2.55 and states like California topping the $3 per gallon mark, this special incentive can save hundreds of dollars for Cruise America RV renters -- far outweighing the price increase at the pump.
"This discount will make a huge impact on those planning their vacations, giving families a better trip than they thought possible," says Mike Smalley, vice president of operations for Cruise America. "For people traveling long distances any time in 2007, now is the time to reserve your RV with Cruise America."
The savings this special offers are significant, Smalley adds. "A trip from Los Angeles to Yellowstone National Park -- a common family vacation spot -- is over 1,000 miles each way," he says. "That's a savings of $320, and that's just on RV rentals in Los Angeles."
The discount is also available on one-way RV rentals. Reservations can be made online using rate code FRDM, or toll-free at 800-671-8042. The discount cannot be combined with any other offer and must be reserved by March 31.
Cruise America RV rentals are available in compact, standard and large sizes, sleeping from four to seven people and offering a kitchen, bathroom and living area. For vacationers who'd rather drive their own vehicle, Cruise America also offers camping trailers with no mileage charges.
Founded in Florida in 1972 and now based in Mesa, Ariz., Cruise America is the largest RV rental company in the US, employing around 300 full-time employees in the US and Canada during peak seasons. Family-owned and operated, Cruise America was founded by Robert Smalley, Sr., and is now led by his sons, CEO Randall Smalley and President Robert Smalley, Jr. Visit us online for information on RV jobs or to contact Cruise America.
Add to DiggBookmark with del.icio.usAdd to Newsvine
CONTACT:
Bob Caldarone
(480) 464-7319
Email Contact
Available at all of Cruise America's more than 130 nationwide RV rental locations, this limited-time discount lowers the mileage cost on any Cruise America RV to just 16 cents -- down from the standard rate of 32 cents per mile.
While gasoline prices soar, with nationwide averages reaching $2.55 and states like California topping the $3 per gallon mark, this special incentive can save hundreds of dollars for Cruise America RV renters -- far outweighing the price increase at the pump.
"This discount will make a huge impact on those planning their vacations, giving families a better trip than they thought possible," says Mike Smalley, vice president of operations for Cruise America. "For people traveling long distances any time in 2007, now is the time to reserve your RV with Cruise America."
The savings this special offers are significant, Smalley adds. "A trip from Los Angeles to Yellowstone National Park -- a common family vacation spot -- is over 1,000 miles each way," he says. "That's a savings of $320, and that's just on RV rentals in Los Angeles."
The discount is also available on one-way RV rentals. Reservations can be made online using rate code FRDM, or toll-free at 800-671-8042. The discount cannot be combined with any other offer and must be reserved by March 31.
Cruise America RV rentals are available in compact, standard and large sizes, sleeping from four to seven people and offering a kitchen, bathroom and living area. For vacationers who'd rather drive their own vehicle, Cruise America also offers camping trailers with no mileage charges.
Founded in Florida in 1972 and now based in Mesa, Ariz., Cruise America is the largest RV rental company in the US, employing around 300 full-time employees in the US and Canada during peak seasons. Family-owned and operated, Cruise America was founded by Robert Smalley, Sr., and is now led by his sons, CEO Randall Smalley and President Robert Smalley, Jr. Visit us online for information on RV jobs or to contact Cruise America.
Add to DiggBookmark with del.icio.usAdd to Newsvine
CONTACT:
Bob Caldarone
(480) 464-7319
Email Contact
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Showing posts with label Gas Price. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gas Price. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
RV sales soar despite high gas prices
RV sales soar despite high gas prices
Gas prices are climbing higher again, but some Americans are still choosing to spend their summer vacations on the road, specifically in motor homes and trailers. The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association reports that close to 400,000 RVs were sold in 2006, the most in 28 years.
In addition, an RV dealer in Pueblo West says his business is $300,000 ahead in sales compared to last year. "It's taken off more than I expected especially with gas prices, you really think that its going to affect the RV industry and there are certain parts that taken hits, but progressively its just slowly gotten better ever single year so far," said Ryan Zabukovic, Manager of Zabukovic Motors.
Even though most RVs are gas guzzlers, owners say they save money in other areas. For example, RV owners point out they don't have to pay for hotel rooms.
Gas prices are climbing higher again, but some Americans are still choosing to spend their summer vacations on the road, specifically in motor homes and trailers. The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association reports that close to 400,000 RVs were sold in 2006, the most in 28 years.
In addition, an RV dealer in Pueblo West says his business is $300,000 ahead in sales compared to last year. "It's taken off more than I expected especially with gas prices, you really think that its going to affect the RV industry and there are certain parts that taken hits, but progressively its just slowly gotten better ever single year so far," said Ryan Zabukovic, Manager of Zabukovic Motors.
Even though most RVs are gas guzzlers, owners say they save money in other areas. For example, RV owners point out they don't have to pay for hotel rooms.
Friday, July 6, 2007
RV sales up despite high gas prices
RV sales up despite high gas prices
By Oren Dorell, USA TODAY
Americans are defying high gas prices and jumping into gas guzzling recreational vehicles for their summer vacations.
Two of the largest owners and managers of RV campgrounds in the USA said their lots are booked this July 4th vacation week and much of the summer.
Sales of RVs have shot up 22% in the past three calendar years. Last year 390,500 RVs were sold, the most in 28 years, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. This year they are on track to dip slightly, RVIA says.
"This week will be one of the busiest if not the busiest for the entire KOA system," says Shane Ott, president and chief operating officer of Kampgrounds of America, the USA's largest campground chain with 450 campgrounds and 72,000 camp sites.
RV parks say changes in how the vehicles are used along with a rise in ownership among affluent people is driving higher sales. The average cost of a new motor home is $260,000 says Richard Coon, president of the RVIA.
"When you're talking about motor homes, those people don't care about gas prices," he says.
Jerry Gelinas, vice president of marketing for Thousand Trails, which manages 81 campgrounds across the country, says customers tend to be baby boomers, retirees and young families with a healthy amount of discretionary income.
Gelinas says RVers increasingly want to use parks as destinations rather than mere stopovers. Parks are responding by offering more attractions such as pools, tennis courts and live entertainment. Rather than cooking nightly over propane stoves families can often buy prepared foods and takeout.
Coon says that compared to all the other expenses of a vacation, such as motels and restaurants, RVs are "still an economic way to go." If gas went up a $1, a family traveling 1,000 miles in a motor home that gets about 10 mpg would spend $100 more on gas, he says.
That's not to say RV owners are ignoring the cost of fuel.
Families are saving money by "going shorter distances and staying longer," says David Woodworth of Fish Camp, Calif., an RV historian.
Industry surveys show that owners have also slowed down to 55 mph or 60 mph, to conserve fuel, Coon says. Fuel mileage is "not great," but it's better than it was 10 years ago, Woodworth says.
The industry has introduced more efficient engines, and new materials that make motor homes and trailers lighter. Felix Kramer, founder of the California Cars Initiative, which promotes energy efficient vehicles, isn't surprised gas prices aren't scaring off RV owners.
"In terms of the percentage of people's annual income, expensive gasoline is not all that much," Kramer says.
But the 18 million RV owners plugging in every night "would be ideal plug-in hybrid candidates," he says. They would no longer need expensive on-board generators to operate appliances and they'd have silent, emissions free vacations.
Alex Kouris, 38, set out June 22 from Marengo, Ill., with his wife, Rachel, and two sons in a 34-foot-long motor home for a trip that will end Sunday. The 90-gallon tank cost about $200 to fill and he expects to pump in another $800 of diesel fuel the whole trip.
"You kind of get used to it so you kind of budget it in," he says.
By Oren Dorell, USA TODAY
Americans are defying high gas prices and jumping into gas guzzling recreational vehicles for their summer vacations.
Two of the largest owners and managers of RV campgrounds in the USA said their lots are booked this July 4th vacation week and much of the summer.
Sales of RVs have shot up 22% in the past three calendar years. Last year 390,500 RVs were sold, the most in 28 years, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. This year they are on track to dip slightly, RVIA says.
"This week will be one of the busiest if not the busiest for the entire KOA system," says Shane Ott, president and chief operating officer of Kampgrounds of America, the USA's largest campground chain with 450 campgrounds and 72,000 camp sites.
RV parks say changes in how the vehicles are used along with a rise in ownership among affluent people is driving higher sales. The average cost of a new motor home is $260,000 says Richard Coon, president of the RVIA.
"When you're talking about motor homes, those people don't care about gas prices," he says.
Jerry Gelinas, vice president of marketing for Thousand Trails, which manages 81 campgrounds across the country, says customers tend to be baby boomers, retirees and young families with a healthy amount of discretionary income.
Gelinas says RVers increasingly want to use parks as destinations rather than mere stopovers. Parks are responding by offering more attractions such as pools, tennis courts and live entertainment. Rather than cooking nightly over propane stoves families can often buy prepared foods and takeout.
Coon says that compared to all the other expenses of a vacation, such as motels and restaurants, RVs are "still an economic way to go." If gas went up a $1, a family traveling 1,000 miles in a motor home that gets about 10 mpg would spend $100 more on gas, he says.
That's not to say RV owners are ignoring the cost of fuel.
Families are saving money by "going shorter distances and staying longer," says David Woodworth of Fish Camp, Calif., an RV historian.
Industry surveys show that owners have also slowed down to 55 mph or 60 mph, to conserve fuel, Coon says. Fuel mileage is "not great," but it's better than it was 10 years ago, Woodworth says.
The industry has introduced more efficient engines, and new materials that make motor homes and trailers lighter. Felix Kramer, founder of the California Cars Initiative, which promotes energy efficient vehicles, isn't surprised gas prices aren't scaring off RV owners.
"In terms of the percentage of people's annual income, expensive gasoline is not all that much," Kramer says.
But the 18 million RV owners plugging in every night "would be ideal plug-in hybrid candidates," he says. They would no longer need expensive on-board generators to operate appliances and they'd have silent, emissions free vacations.
Alex Kouris, 38, set out June 22 from Marengo, Ill., with his wife, Rachel, and two sons in a 34-foot-long motor home for a trip that will end Sunday. The 90-gallon tank cost about $200 to fill and he expects to pump in another $800 of diesel fuel the whole trip.
"You kind of get used to it so you kind of budget it in," he says.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Boat and RV sales not suffering, despite high gas prices
Boat and RV sales not suffering, despite high gas prices
5/30/2007 4:18 PM
By: Jessica Mokhiber
-- Click to Watch Video --
Boat and RV sales
Temperatures are rising, and more and more people are going to be heading out on their boats and in their RVs for the summer. But with the gas prices rising, are sales of boats and RVs slowing down? Jessica Mokhiber caught up with some people, whose answers may surprise you.
It costs more these days to get to where you're going, and not just for cars. With gas prices at near-record highs, it also costs more for boaters and people with RVs to fill up.
Dockside Landing Boat and Yacht Owner Craig Merrell said, "First of all, it's on the news channels on a daily basis."
So you may think that less people are boating. But it seems that's not the case.
Boat N RV Warehouse owner Geoffrey Hoffman said, "It's more a conversation people have in our showroom. People talk about gas prices, but it doesn't affect a recreational purchase."
"People are still coming in. People are still coming in on vacation. People still need to get away and enjoy themselves, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to do that," said Merrell.
Hoffman, who also sells RVs, said gas prices haven't slowed down those sales either, but he thinks people may drive them less.
"Maybe on an RV, they'll leave it on the campground at the site more than they'll tow it around," Hoffman said.
But he agrees with Merrell and said in this day and age, people need their leisure time, and he thinks that's why gas prices aren't slowing down sales.
"We work really hard, and it's a stressed-out society these days, and people put a premium on their leisure time, and they work really hard for it," said Hoffman.
Merrell said, "All in all though, for experienced boaters, and people who love to boat, I don't think gas prices have affected things too much this year."
5/30/2007 4:18 PM
By: Jessica Mokhiber
-- Click to Watch Video --
Boat and RV sales
Temperatures are rising, and more and more people are going to be heading out on their boats and in their RVs for the summer. But with the gas prices rising, are sales of boats and RVs slowing down? Jessica Mokhiber caught up with some people, whose answers may surprise you.
It costs more these days to get to where you're going, and not just for cars. With gas prices at near-record highs, it also costs more for boaters and people with RVs to fill up.
Dockside Landing Boat and Yacht Owner Craig Merrell said, "First of all, it's on the news channels on a daily basis."
So you may think that less people are boating. But it seems that's not the case.
Boat N RV Warehouse owner Geoffrey Hoffman said, "It's more a conversation people have in our showroom. People talk about gas prices, but it doesn't affect a recreational purchase."
"People are still coming in. People are still coming in on vacation. People still need to get away and enjoy themselves, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to do that," said Merrell.
Hoffman, who also sells RVs, said gas prices haven't slowed down those sales either, but he thinks people may drive them less.
"Maybe on an RV, they'll leave it on the campground at the site more than they'll tow it around," Hoffman said.
But he agrees with Merrell and said in this day and age, people need their leisure time, and he thinks that's why gas prices aren't slowing down sales.
"We work really hard, and it's a stressed-out society these days, and people put a premium on their leisure time, and they work really hard for it," said Hoffman.
Merrell said, "All in all though, for experienced boaters, and people who love to boat, I don't think gas prices have affected things too much this year."
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
RV Campgrounds Full Despite High Gas Prices
RV Campgrounds Full Despite High Gas Prices
By Josh Hinkle, Reporter
Watch Video
LINN COUNTY - The nation is still guzzling gas, despite it’s high price. The national average per gallon is $3.20. Iowa's average is even higher at $3.29.
Instead of going the distance this summer and continuously filling up, many travelers are saying goodbye to their cars and hello to an RV.
Joe and Pearl Coder say they found the right spot to vacation, only a few miles from their home. Squaw Creek Campground is just outside Cedar Rapids, and it kept them from spending their savings on gas.
County campgrounds are full and we found many of the RVers, like the coders, are also not far from home for the same reason.
It hasn't slowed everyone. Gary Ketelsen owns Ketelsen RV and sales have hit a record high, 10 percent higher than last year when gas was much cheaper. Even RV rentals are up.
"We're finding that two families are going in together to cut expenses in half," said Ketelsen.
Piloting one of these portables can be expensive. Some only get 8 miles per gallon of gas. And the rentals can run you $2,000 for a week. But, if you are going the distance, it will save on hotel costs.
While the Coders are enjoying their vacation very close to home, they say the price at the pump won't prevent them from visiting their son in New Orleans nearly a thousand miles away at the end up the summer.
They do hope the price at the pump goes down by then. But, travel agents we spoke with in the area Tuesday say the Coders are not alone.
Despite the high gas costs, most people aren't canceling their trips, especially if it's something they've had planned for a while.
http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/7734472.html
By Josh Hinkle, Reporter
Watch Video
LINN COUNTY - The nation is still guzzling gas, despite it’s high price. The national average per gallon is $3.20. Iowa's average is even higher at $3.29.
Instead of going the distance this summer and continuously filling up, many travelers are saying goodbye to their cars and hello to an RV.
Joe and Pearl Coder say they found the right spot to vacation, only a few miles from their home. Squaw Creek Campground is just outside Cedar Rapids, and it kept them from spending their savings on gas.
County campgrounds are full and we found many of the RVers, like the coders, are also not far from home for the same reason.
It hasn't slowed everyone. Gary Ketelsen owns Ketelsen RV and sales have hit a record high, 10 percent higher than last year when gas was much cheaper. Even RV rentals are up.
"We're finding that two families are going in together to cut expenses in half," said Ketelsen.
Piloting one of these portables can be expensive. Some only get 8 miles per gallon of gas. And the rentals can run you $2,000 for a week. But, if you are going the distance, it will save on hotel costs.
While the Coders are enjoying their vacation very close to home, they say the price at the pump won't prevent them from visiting their son in New Orleans nearly a thousand miles away at the end up the summer.
They do hope the price at the pump goes down by then. But, travel agents we spoke with in the area Tuesday say the Coders are not alone.
Despite the high gas costs, most people aren't canceling their trips, especially if it's something they've had planned for a while.
http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/7734472.html
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
High Gas Prices Keeping Some RV Owners Closer to Home
High Gas Prices Keeping Some RV Owners Closer to Home
May 23, 2007 05:20 AM MDT
OREGON -- The first big camping weekend of the year is just a few days away. So now that gasoline is in the $3.50 range, and diesel fuel not far behind, are people heading out or staying home? We checked Maumee Bay State Park, and found a lot of people with plans to camp this summer, but reservations about what high gas prices will do to their season.
Kathy Kazmarski of Sylvania is getting around the pinch at the pump because her RV has gas left over from a winter trip to Florida. Even if she and her husband did have to fill up, they'd still be here. "We spent a lot of money to buy a motor home and I'm not going to let it sit in a storage area," said Kazmarski. "You buy it to use it."
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Maumee Bay State Park Assistant Manager Steve Stibaner predicts only bad weather will keep people away. "We only have 24 walk-in sites and as of today, we only have 2 left," said Stibaner. "A lot of people are still coming out and we expect a full campground this weekend."
But Alan Belle of Genoa, who's staying with friends in their RV this week, has already made adjustments on his summer camping schedule. If gas stays around $3.48 a gallon for regular, it would cost about $260 to fill up a 75-gallon RV tank. "We had a nice trip planned for Colorado Springs and by the time we paid for gas for two people, it would be round trip around $800," said Belle. "So we figured we can fly and get cheap flights out there for half of that probably."
Belle's friend Bob Meilink is paying about 70 cents less per gallon because his RV is fueled by diesel. But even though he's a full-time camper, he's staying local. "We were going to go east, but now we're going to stay here and just spend the summer here at home and head back west in the fall, hoping the prices are better," said Meilink.
Gas is now more expensive than any other time in history. Analysts blame increased demand and lower refinery capacity for the jump in fuel prices.
Posted by AEB
May 23, 2007 05:20 AM MDT
OREGON -- The first big camping weekend of the year is just a few days away. So now that gasoline is in the $3.50 range, and diesel fuel not far behind, are people heading out or staying home? We checked Maumee Bay State Park, and found a lot of people with plans to camp this summer, but reservations about what high gas prices will do to their season.
Kathy Kazmarski of Sylvania is getting around the pinch at the pump because her RV has gas left over from a winter trip to Florida. Even if she and her husband did have to fill up, they'd still be here. "We spent a lot of money to buy a motor home and I'm not going to let it sit in a storage area," said Kazmarski. "You buy it to use it."
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Maumee Bay State Park Assistant Manager Steve Stibaner predicts only bad weather will keep people away. "We only have 24 walk-in sites and as of today, we only have 2 left," said Stibaner. "A lot of people are still coming out and we expect a full campground this weekend."
But Alan Belle of Genoa, who's staying with friends in their RV this week, has already made adjustments on his summer camping schedule. If gas stays around $3.48 a gallon for regular, it would cost about $260 to fill up a 75-gallon RV tank. "We had a nice trip planned for Colorado Springs and by the time we paid for gas for two people, it would be round trip around $800," said Belle. "So we figured we can fly and get cheap flights out there for half of that probably."
Belle's friend Bob Meilink is paying about 70 cents less per gallon because his RV is fueled by diesel. But even though he's a full-time camper, he's staying local. "We were going to go east, but now we're going to stay here and just spend the summer here at home and head back west in the fall, hoping the prices are better," said Meilink.
Gas is now more expensive than any other time in history. Analysts blame increased demand and lower refinery capacity for the jump in fuel prices.
Posted by AEB
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Higher gas prices not slowing down RV industry
Higher gas prices not slowing down RV industry
By Elliott Minor
ASSOCIATED PRESS
10:13 p.m. March 21, 2007
PERRY, Ga. – With gas prices climbing, the turnout at a motor-home convention in the heart of Georgia this week is much better than most outsiders would expect.
About 20,000 motor-home owners and industry representatives have gathered at the Family Motor Coach Association's 77th International Convention to kick the tires of more than 1,000 enticing new models – some costing more than $1 million and getting only 6 miles per gallon.
AdvertisementThe recreational vehicle industry has been reporting record sales for the past five years, despite rising costs at the pump. Insiders credit a growing number of baby boomers who want the gas-guzzling vehicles for retirement and younger families opting for vacations closer to home for offsetting any potential losses because of soaring fuel costs.
“There's no better way to do it,” said Bob Dalton, 70, who has owned a motor home for 30 years. “I can sleep in my own bed and I can eat my own food. I travel at my own pace. I go where I want.”
Since the association last met in Perry in March 2005, the average price of regular self-serve gasoline has increased 21 percent, from $2.10 to $2.55 per gallon, according to the Lundberg Survey of 7,000 gas stations across the country.
So far, the higher fuel prices seem to have had little, if any, impact on Americans who vacation with recreational vehicles, which include simple pop-up campers, travel trailers towed by pickup trucks or SUVs and motor homes.
“If you can afford $600,000 for a coach, what's the difference between $2.50 or $3 per gallon,” said Dalton, a military retiree. “It does affect me. I drive less and stay longer.”
Winnebago Industries Inc., one of the nation's leading motor-home manufacturers, reported a 2.2 percent decline in net income and a 3.6 percent drop in revenues in its most recent quarter, saying rising fuel prices for shaking consumer confidence. But Kevin Broom, a spokesman for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, noted that Winnebago makes only motor homes and that its earnings report was not a reflection of the whole RV industry.
The RVIA, which represents 550 manufacturers and suppliers, expects sales to dip a little this year, but 2007 still looks to be the fourth best in the past 30 years, Broom said.
He cited favorable interest rates, the success of an industry program to attract younger buyers, and a switch from flying to other modes of vacation travel since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
“RVs are the most cost effective way to vacation for a family, even when you factor in the cost of fuel,” Broom said, noting that travel expenses such as hotels, restaurants and rental cars can be avoided or reduced when using an RV.
Mark Tuggle, sales manager for Douglasville-based John Bleakley Motor Homes, Georgia's largest motor-home dealership, said younger buyers are a new phenomenon in RV sales.
“If they weren't gray headed and had handicapped sticker, salespeople would shy away from them,” Tuggle said. “Now they can be 32 years old and have two kids and you need to pay attention to them.”
The influx of younger RVers still wasn't apparent at the motor-home convention, which ends Thursday. Many were gray-haired retirees, although a few appeared to be baby boomers – people born between 1946 and 1964 who are reaching retirement age with company-sponsored 401(k) accounts and other savings.
“Baby boomers have more expendable income,” said Dave Uhlenbrock, spokesman for the motor coach association, which has 120,000 family members. “They can do what they did at home in a motor home. There are motor homes with washers and dryers, lovely shower areas, satellite TV and Wi-Fi. They call them land yachts, and they truly are.”
The models on display at the 1,700-acre convention site about 100 miles south of Atlanta ranged from small, diesel-powered models that cost about $90,000 and get 22 to 26 miles per gallon to high-end models with satellite television, leather upholstery, tile floors and marble countertops. These 40- to 42-foot mobile manors cost $600,000 to $1.3 million and have fuel economy in the single digits.
Dalton and many others stopped to admire a luxurious $382,000 motor home with a surprise inside. The 41-foot Travel Supreme gets only 6 to 8 miles per gallon, but nestled in its rear compartment is a tiny, fuel-efficient Smart car, a creation of DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes Car Group, rated at 40 mpg.
Drivers lower a ramp and back it out of the compartment for trips to monuments or grocery stores.
By Elliott Minor
ASSOCIATED PRESS
10:13 p.m. March 21, 2007
PERRY, Ga. – With gas prices climbing, the turnout at a motor-home convention in the heart of Georgia this week is much better than most outsiders would expect.
About 20,000 motor-home owners and industry representatives have gathered at the Family Motor Coach Association's 77th International Convention to kick the tires of more than 1,000 enticing new models – some costing more than $1 million and getting only 6 miles per gallon.
AdvertisementThe recreational vehicle industry has been reporting record sales for the past five years, despite rising costs at the pump. Insiders credit a growing number of baby boomers who want the gas-guzzling vehicles for retirement and younger families opting for vacations closer to home for offsetting any potential losses because of soaring fuel costs.
“There's no better way to do it,” said Bob Dalton, 70, who has owned a motor home for 30 years. “I can sleep in my own bed and I can eat my own food. I travel at my own pace. I go where I want.”
Since the association last met in Perry in March 2005, the average price of regular self-serve gasoline has increased 21 percent, from $2.10 to $2.55 per gallon, according to the Lundberg Survey of 7,000 gas stations across the country.
So far, the higher fuel prices seem to have had little, if any, impact on Americans who vacation with recreational vehicles, which include simple pop-up campers, travel trailers towed by pickup trucks or SUVs and motor homes.
“If you can afford $600,000 for a coach, what's the difference between $2.50 or $3 per gallon,” said Dalton, a military retiree. “It does affect me. I drive less and stay longer.”
Winnebago Industries Inc., one of the nation's leading motor-home manufacturers, reported a 2.2 percent decline in net income and a 3.6 percent drop in revenues in its most recent quarter, saying rising fuel prices for shaking consumer confidence. But Kevin Broom, a spokesman for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, noted that Winnebago makes only motor homes and that its earnings report was not a reflection of the whole RV industry.
The RVIA, which represents 550 manufacturers and suppliers, expects sales to dip a little this year, but 2007 still looks to be the fourth best in the past 30 years, Broom said.
He cited favorable interest rates, the success of an industry program to attract younger buyers, and a switch from flying to other modes of vacation travel since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
“RVs are the most cost effective way to vacation for a family, even when you factor in the cost of fuel,” Broom said, noting that travel expenses such as hotels, restaurants and rental cars can be avoided or reduced when using an RV.
Mark Tuggle, sales manager for Douglasville-based John Bleakley Motor Homes, Georgia's largest motor-home dealership, said younger buyers are a new phenomenon in RV sales.
“If they weren't gray headed and had handicapped sticker, salespeople would shy away from them,” Tuggle said. “Now they can be 32 years old and have two kids and you need to pay attention to them.”
The influx of younger RVers still wasn't apparent at the motor-home convention, which ends Thursday. Many were gray-haired retirees, although a few appeared to be baby boomers – people born between 1946 and 1964 who are reaching retirement age with company-sponsored 401(k) accounts and other savings.
“Baby boomers have more expendable income,” said Dave Uhlenbrock, spokesman for the motor coach association, which has 120,000 family members. “They can do what they did at home in a motor home. There are motor homes with washers and dryers, lovely shower areas, satellite TV and Wi-Fi. They call them land yachts, and they truly are.”
The models on display at the 1,700-acre convention site about 100 miles south of Atlanta ranged from small, diesel-powered models that cost about $90,000 and get 22 to 26 miles per gallon to high-end models with satellite television, leather upholstery, tile floors and marble countertops. These 40- to 42-foot mobile manors cost $600,000 to $1.3 million and have fuel economy in the single digits.
Dalton and many others stopped to admire a luxurious $382,000 motor home with a surprise inside. The 41-foot Travel Supreme gets only 6 to 8 miles per gallon, but nestled in its rear compartment is a tiny, fuel-efficient Smart car, a creation of DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes Car Group, rated at 40 mpg.
Drivers lower a ramp and back it out of the compartment for trips to monuments or grocery stores.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Cruise America RV Combats Rising Gas Prices With Discount Mileage
MESA, AZ -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 03/14/07 -- While travelers nationwide grumble about paying more at the pump, RV vacationers can breathe a sigh of relief. Now through March 31, Cruise America RV rental is offering half-priced mileage charges on all new reservations for RV travel through the end of 2007.
Available at all of Cruise America's more than 130 nationwide RV rental locations, this limited-time discount lowers the mileage cost on any Cruise America RV to just 16 cents -- down from the standard rate of 32 cents per mile.
While gasoline prices soar, with nationwide averages reaching $2.55 and states like California topping the $3 per gallon mark, this special incentive can save hundreds of dollars for Cruise America RV renters -- far outweighing the price increase at the pump.
"This discount will make a huge impact on those planning their vacations, giving families a better trip than they thought possible," says Mike Smalley, vice president of operations for Cruise America. "For people traveling long distances any time in 2007, now is the time to reserve your RV with Cruise America."
The savings this special offers are significant, Smalley adds. "A trip from Los Angeles to Yellowstone National Park -- a common family vacation spot -- is over 1,000 miles each way," he says. "That's a savings of $320, and that's just on RV rentals in Los Angeles."
The discount is also available on one-way RV rentals. Reservations can be made online using rate code FRDM, or toll-free at 800-671-8042. The discount cannot be combined with any other offer and must be reserved by March 31.
Cruise America RV rentals are available in compact, standard and large sizes, sleeping from four to seven people and offering a kitchen, bathroom and living area. For vacationers who'd rather drive their own vehicle, Cruise America also offers camping trailers with no mileage charges.
Founded in Florida in 1972 and now based in Mesa, Ariz., Cruise America is the largest RV rental company in the US, employing around 300 full-time employees in the US and Canada during peak seasons. Family-owned and operated, Cruise America was founded by Robert Smalley, Sr., and is now led by his sons, CEO Randall Smalley and President Robert Smalley, Jr. Visit us online for information on RV jobs or to contact Cruise America.
Add to DiggBookmark with del.icio.usAdd to Newsvine
CONTACT:
Bob Caldarone
(480) 464-7319
Email Contact
Available at all of Cruise America's more than 130 nationwide RV rental locations, this limited-time discount lowers the mileage cost on any Cruise America RV to just 16 cents -- down from the standard rate of 32 cents per mile.
While gasoline prices soar, with nationwide averages reaching $2.55 and states like California topping the $3 per gallon mark, this special incentive can save hundreds of dollars for Cruise America RV renters -- far outweighing the price increase at the pump.
"This discount will make a huge impact on those planning their vacations, giving families a better trip than they thought possible," says Mike Smalley, vice president of operations for Cruise America. "For people traveling long distances any time in 2007, now is the time to reserve your RV with Cruise America."
The savings this special offers are significant, Smalley adds. "A trip from Los Angeles to Yellowstone National Park -- a common family vacation spot -- is over 1,000 miles each way," he says. "That's a savings of $320, and that's just on RV rentals in Los Angeles."
The discount is also available on one-way RV rentals. Reservations can be made online using rate code FRDM, or toll-free at 800-671-8042. The discount cannot be combined with any other offer and must be reserved by March 31.
Cruise America RV rentals are available in compact, standard and large sizes, sleeping from four to seven people and offering a kitchen, bathroom and living area. For vacationers who'd rather drive their own vehicle, Cruise America also offers camping trailers with no mileage charges.
Founded in Florida in 1972 and now based in Mesa, Ariz., Cruise America is the largest RV rental company in the US, employing around 300 full-time employees in the US and Canada during peak seasons. Family-owned and operated, Cruise America was founded by Robert Smalley, Sr., and is now led by his sons, CEO Randall Smalley and President Robert Smalley, Jr. Visit us online for information on RV jobs or to contact Cruise America.
Add to DiggBookmark with del.icio.usAdd to Newsvine
CONTACT:
Bob Caldarone
(480) 464-7319
Email Contact
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