By Julie Pace and Crystal Lauderdale
The Tampa Tribune

See And Send Photos | Video: RV Show

TAMPA - Recreational vehicles are traditionally considered a big ticket item for retirees.

Now, younger generations – couples in their 30s and 40s, as well as families with young children - are finding their way into the market.

“They’re the reason the industry is growing,” said Bob Phebus of Marathon Coach, a San Antonio, Fla.-based company.

To attract those younger buyers, RV supplies are outfitting their rigs with high definition televisions, wireless internet and bunk beds for children.

About 15 percent of RV owners are younger than 35. That’s up from 2 percent 20 years ago, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association.

Twenty-seven-year-old Ann Fausnaugh and her husband Rodney Fausnaugh, 40, are shopping for an RV so they can pick up at a moments notice with their pets in tow and not worry about booking a hotel.

“It’s becoming harder to find a hotel that allows animals,” Rodney Fausnaugh said. “And the prices of hotels are going up.”

But RVs don’t run cheap. High-end models top out near $1.6 million, and even more basic models can cost several hundred thousand dollars.

However, many companies offer 20-year financing plans that make the pricey rides more manageable for younger couples.

“It’s a long-term investment,” Ann Fausnaugh said.

The Fausnaughs were among the younger generation of potential buyers at the Florida RV SuperShow at the Florida State Fairgrounds. The show runs through Sunday and features 1,400 RVs for sale.

For John and Jessica Schneider — 42 and 37, respectively — an RV is the only way they can take the year-long trip around the United States they are planning for their two young children.

“It’s a neat country with a lot of neat things to see,” John Schneider said.

Dave Kelly, marketing director for the Florida RV Trade Association, said pop culture has helped younger generations view RVs in a new light.

Television shows like “Road Rules,” an MTV reality show where young adults travel the country in an RV, and the Robin Williams movie “RV” helped make the vehicles trendy, Kelly said.

With increased amenities and added convenience, Kelly expects RVs to stay in vogue among younger road warriors.

“It’s the generation,” he said. “They’re the ‘I want it now’ generation.”

Reporter Julie Pace can be reached at (813) 259-7567 or jpace@tampatrib.com.

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