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:

• They seek out RV-friendly destinations, including those that provide adequate parking, proper signage, high-quality camping experiences, and cultural/historic experiences.
• RVing is a chosen lifestyle, where feelings of freedom and fellowship are central and generally not affected by rising gas prices.
• 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.
• Stereotypes are no longer applicable.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

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