RV Rental Association Survey: RV Rental Demand Strong Heading into Summer Travel Season

May 2026 | RV Dealers Association

Fairfax, VA – RV rental demand is robust heading into the 2026 summer travel season, according to the latest RV Rental Association (RVRA) survey.

Nearly 60 percent of rental operators report having more April reservations on the books compared with the same time last year, a strong signal that families planning an RV vacation should secure their rental soon. Only 21 percent of operators reported fewer early‑season reservations, while 22 percent said bookings are on pace with last year.

Length of RV Rental Contracts
Three‑ to six‑night rentals continue to dominate the market.

• 48 percent of operators said five to six nights is the most common rental length.
• Another 43 percent reported three to four nights as the most popular.
• Nine percent said their longest contracts — seven nights or more — were most in demand.

Looking ahead to peak season, 70 percent of operators expect average rental lengths to remain consistent with 2025, while 22 percent anticipate longer trips.  Traditional family vacations and reunions remain the top reasons for renting an RV. Reflecting this trend, operators say units with four or more sleeping areas are the most requested.

Towable Rentals Continue Rapid Growth
One of the most notable shifts in recent years is the rising popularity of towable RV rentals.

• 78 percent of responding companies rent RV trailers.
• Among them, 28 percent said three‑quarters of their customers were “tow‑and‑go” renters who already own a capable pickup or SUV.

However, consumers don’t need a tow vehicle to enjoy a trailer rental.

• 16 percent of rental dealers reported that more than 40 percent of their customers choose delivery and set up, with dealership staff placing the trailer at a campsite and connecting utilities. 

Pet‑Friendly Travel Still a Major Draw

The freedom to bring pets continues to be a major reason families choose RV travel.

• 87 percent of rental operators allow dogs.
• 17 percent allow cats.

Other RV Rental Trends

Peer‑to‑peer RV rentals have grown in recent years, and 41 percent of rental dealers say listing some or all of their fleet on these platforms is “a great addition to my marketing program.”

However, RVRA emphasizes that professional rental dealers offer important advantages. “Rental dealers know more than the typical owner about how RVs work, how to maintain them, and how to fix them if something goes wrong on the road,” said RVRA Chairman Scott Krenek. “That expertise can make a big difference in the quality of a family’s vacation.”

RV Rental Tips for Consumers

RVDA encourages consumers to ask the following questions before renting an RV this summer:

• Does the rental outlet keep regular hours for pick‑up and drop‑off?
• Does the company provide a walkthrough or orientation for first‑time renters?
• Is there a phone number to call or text if questions arise during the trip?
• What are the terms of the security or damage deposit?
• Is the RV shown online the same model that will be available at pickup?
• Who owns the RV, and how does the insurance coverage work?
• If the RV becomes unavailable due to damage, does the rental company have a replacement unit?
• For RV owners considering renting out their own unit, RVRA urges them to review their manufacturer and component warranties, as well as any financing agreements.

RVRA is a division of RVDA dedicated to enhancing professionalism and customer service in the RV rental industry. The annual survey was conducted through the RV Retailer Intelligence program, a service of the RV Assistance Corp. (RVAC), a wholly owned subsidiary of RVDA. To find an RVRA member company, visit www.rvra.org.