Research conducted by UNBC and Texas A&M University has shown that
people who drive Recreational Vehicles (RVers) are generally
misunderstood, not affected by rising gas prices, and are
technologically savvy.
It's believed to be the largest academic study of RVers ever undertaken.
The research was conducted in Dawson Creek at Mile 0 of the Alaska
Highway, one of the major destinations for tourists from Canada and the
United States. More than 900 people were interviewed and surveyed
through the summer of 2006 and they provided new insights into the
habits, needs, and preferences of RVers:
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They seek out RV-friendly destinations, including those that provide
adequate parking, proper signage, high-quality camping experiences, and
cultural/historic experiences.
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RVing is a chosen lifestyle, where feelings of freedom and fellowship
are central and generally not affected by rising gas prices.
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RVers are technologically savvy and use the internet and RV-specific
publications to plan trips well in advance. That said, they plan
flexibility into their plans and thus can be influenced by emails from
friends or staff in visitor information centres. In fact, many details
of the trip are left open and cell phones, wireless internet, GPS
navigation systems, and laptops are used extensively by RVers even
while they are en route.
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Stereotypes are no longer applicable. Of those participating in the
survey, more than half had university degrees or technical diplomas and
more than one-third had annual incomes of greater than $80,000 despite
the fact the vast majority of respondents were retired. Stereotypes and
the lack of marketing directly aimed at RVers have contributed to
feelings among many RVers that they are misunderstood.
“RVers are an important and growing part of tourism. In fact, 1 in 10
Canadian families now owns an RV,” says Anne Hardy, a professor in the
UNBC Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management program. “This region is
incredibly attractive and it is located on the way to Alaska yet many
communities have failed to maximize their attraction to RVers. Our
research shows they have money to spend, time, and a keen interest in
engaging with communities. Communities and tourism organizations must
work on making their places more RV-friendly. Word will get out and the
work will pay off.”
Dr. Hardy participated in the research with Dr.
Ulrike Gretzel at Texas A&M. Similar research is being launched
through the Rocky Mountain national parks this summer.
The research has been supported by Texas A&M University, the BC
Real Estate Foundation, Elkhart County Convention & Visitors
Bureau, Tourism BC, the Northern BC Tourism Association, the Northern
Rockies Alaska Highway Tourism Association, Tourism Dawson Creek, the
Texas Association of Campground Owners, and UNBC.
Contact:
Anne Hardy, Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management professor, UNBC – 250.960.5114
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622
