The atmosphere at RV shows in 2026 has noticeably shifted. The energy is still there, but it is more deliberate. People are not only browsing. They are evaluating.
At the Florida RV SuperShow, attendance reached about 70,100 this year, up slightly from 68,000 in 2025, though still below the 84,000 peak recorded in 2022. That difference reflects a broader change. The surge of first-time, curiosity-driven visitors has tapered off. In their place are buyers who arrive prepared, often with research already done and decisions partially formed.
You can see it in how people interact with the units. Questions move quickly past the basics and into real-world concerns such as energy systems, insulation performance, and long-term usability. This is what the current RV market trends look like on the ground. Fewer casual conversations, more intentional ones.
RV Shows to Know in 2026
The 2026 RV show calendar spans major consumer events, regional showcases, and industry-only gatherings. Each one reflects a different part of the market, from buyer demand to manufacturer strategy.
Major U.S. Consumer Shows
Florida RV SuperShow (Tampa, FL): January 14 to 18, 2026. A key early-year event that often signals how the market will behave.
America’s Largest RV Show (Hershey, PA): September 16 to 20, 2026. One of the largest public RV events, featuring about 1,500 units from around 40 manufacturers.
Regional U.S. Shows
Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show (Quartzsite, AZ): January 17 to 25, 2026. A large outdoor gathering known for off-grid and boondocking culture.
Annual Manufacturers RV Show (Pleasanton, CA): January 23 to February 1, 2026. A major West Coast show with more than 600 models on display.
California RV Supershow (Pomona, CA): March 20 to 22, 2026. Combines RV displays with seminars and lifestyle-focused presentations.
Indy RV Expo & Sale (Indianapolis, IN): January 3 to 11, 2026. A Midwest event that helps dealers move early-season inventory.
Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show (Grand Rapids, MI): January 15 to 18, 2026. Popular among buyers interested in all-season capability.
New England RV Supershow (Boston, MA): January 16 to 19, 2026
Focuses on compact units suited for tighter travel conditions.Northeast RV & Camping Show (Hartford, CT): January 30 to February 1, 2026. Tailored to regional travel needs and practical setups.
Wildwood RV Show (Wildwood, NJ): October 2026. A late-season show often used to move remaining inventory.
Industry and Trade Event
Elkhart RV Open House (Elkhart, IN): September 28 to October 2, 2026
A dealer-focused event where manufacturers present upcoming models and secure orders.
International Shows
Caravan Salon Düsseldorf (Germany): August 28 to September 6, 2026. The largest RV show globally, shaping technology and design trends.
Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show (Birmingham, UK): February 17 to 22, 2026. A major early-year event in the UK market.
Motorhome and Caravan Show (Birmingham, UK): October 13 to 18, 2026. A large platform for new model-year releases.
Victorian Caravan, Camping & Touring Supershow (Australia): February 18 to 22, 2026. Highlights rugged, off-grid travel setups.
NSW Caravan, Camping & Holiday Supershow (Australia): April 28 to May 3, 2026. Focuses on off-road capability and regional travel demand.
A Stable Market That Is Not Discount-Driven
The broader market signals stability, not a widespread price drop. The wholesale shipment forecast for 2026 centers on 349,000 units, with a projected range of 328,800 to 367,000. That follows 342,200 units shipped in 2025, showing steady movement rather than rapid expansion.
Retail conditions, however, tell a more nuanced story. New RV sales declined by 14.51 percent year over year in early 2026. Towable RV sales dropped 14.42 percent, while Class A motorhomes saw a sharper decline of 24.34 percent.
Despite that, pricing remains firm in many areas. Average selling prices still hover around $375,800 for Class A motorhomes, $134,000 for Class B units, $35,100 for travel trailers, $70,000 for fifth wheels, and $16,900 for pop-up campers. Wholesale values have only softened slightly, with motorhomes averaging $62,637 and towables around $15,408.
Inventory Pressure Is Quiet but Influential
One of the most important dynamics in the current market is not immediately visible. More than 50 percent of dealer inventory sits on lots for longer than 90 days. That creates ongoing costs that dealers cannot ignore.
These carrying costs add up to more than $778 million annually in floorplan losses across the industry. At the same time, over $3.77 billion worth of 2025 models remained unsold as newer inventory entered the pipeline.
This pressure shapes how deals happen. It does not always appear as a lower sticker price. More often, it shows up in flexibility around negotiation, willingness to move certain units, or adjustments tied to how long a model has been sitting. Buyers who pay attention to inventory age often gain more leverage than those who focus only on listed prices.
A Clear Divide Between Buyer Segments
The market is increasingly split between different types of buyers. Entry-level shoppers are feeling the impact of higher financing costs, particularly in the towable category. This has led to slower movement in what was once a strong middle segment.
In contrast, higher-end buyers remain active. They are less sensitive to interest rates and more focused on features, comfort, and long-term value. Within this landscape, Class B motorhomes have shown notable resilience, largely because they align with flexible travel and everyday usability.
Many buyers are working through practical concerns that are not always stated directly. Questions about long-term value, resale potential, and whether the purchase fits a lifestyle shift often carry more weight than visible features. These internal considerations influence decisions far more than showroom impressions.
Electric RVs Are Advancing, but With Limits
Electric RV development has moved beyond early prototypes and into real-world applications, though it remains highly situational.
The Thor Embark offers a clear example of how hybrid powertrain eRVs are evolving. Its 140-kWh battery and 800-volt system provide about 105 miles of electric-only driving, with total range extending to roughly 450 miles when supported by a gasoline range extender.
Winnebago’s eRV2 approaches the concept from a different angle. With more than 18,000 test miles completed, its focus is less on long-distance travel and more on off-grid functionality. Its 15-kWh battery, combined with 900 watts of solar, can support up to seven days of independent use.
These differences highlight an important distinction. Electric RVs are not yet a universal solution. They offer clear advantages for certain travel styles, particularly those centered on quiet, off-grid living, but they may not suit every type of trip.
Technology Has Become a Practical Expectation
Modern buyers expect more than basic functionality. Lithium and solar RV systems are now common in many segments, and their presence alone is no longer enough to stand out.
What matters is how these systems improve daily use. Buyers are looking to see whether energy setups reduce reliance on generators, extend time off-grid, and simplify overall operations. Digital controls and integrated systems are evaluated based on convenience rather than novelty.
Major Shows Continue to Shape the Industry
Large-scale events still play a critical role, though their purpose has evolved. America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey remains a central gathering point, showcasing nearly 1,500 units from around 40 manufacturers across more than 1,000,000 square feet.
Internationally, Caravan Salon Düsseldorf attracts more than 235,000 visitors from 72 countries, setting the tone for global design and innovation. The NEC Birmingham showcases more than 1,000 models across 85,000 square meters, underscoring the industry's global nature.
Behind the scenes, events like the Elkhart RV Open House influence dealer decisions and future inventory planning. These gatherings are less about discovery and more about confirming direction, both for buyers and for the industry itself.
Pricing Is Resetting to More Realistic Levels
The volatility seen during the pandemic years led to inflated prices and unusual market behavior. That environment has largely settled.
Used RV values are returning to more typical ranges, and new inventory is being managed with greater discipline. This reflects broader consolidation in the RV industry, where manufacturers and dealers are focusing on sustainable production and sales strategies rather than rapid expansion.
Price variation across segments remains wide. Lightweight campers are often priced around $30,000, while imported rugged caravans from Australia can reach approximately $145,000. These differences highlight how diverse the market has become, with pricing tied closely to use case and build quality.
Transport Becomes Part of the Decision Earlier Than Expected
For many buyers, transportation is not the first thing they consider, but it quickly becomes important, especially when purchases are made far from home.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport supports vehicle shipping within the U.S., which becomes relevant when distance or logistics make driving impractical. Allowing no upfront payment until you choose a carrier lets buyers explore options without immediate commitment.
Some buyers plan to drive their purchase home and later reconsider after factoring in time, fuel, and wear and tear. Shipping an RV often becomes part of the cost-and-convenience equation sooner than expected.
Get your free, no obligation quote today.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and reflects general RV market trends as of 2026. Availability, pricing, and specifications may vary. AmeriFreight Auto Transport provides vehicle shipping services within the U.S. only.
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