MATURE AMERICANS FIND TRAVEL AND SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES WITH RVs

RESTON, Va. -- Home is where the recreation vehicle (RV) goes, say millions of mature Americans who take frequent and extended trips across the country, meeting new people in motorhomes, travel trailers, truck campers, folding camping trailers and conversion vehicles.

According to a University of Michigan study, RV ownership increased 50 percent among householders aged 55 and up since 1980 -- the greatest increase for any demographic group. Nearly half of the nation's 9 million RVs on the road are owned by people over 55. This number is expected to increase significantly as the nation's largest population segment reaches the prime RV buying years.

"Mature travelers are good candidates for RV travel because many have the time, discretionary funds and desire to see and experience the small towns, big cities, popular attractions and natural beauty of the United States," say Hal Norvell of the American Association of Retired Persons' (AARP) travel industry relations office. "RVs provide them with an enjoyable, comfortable and economical way to take it all in and enjoy the social benefits of camaraderie on the road."

The University of Michigan research found that RV ownership rates rose consistently with age, reaching their highest levels among those aged 55 to 74. In particular, ownership rates of motorhomes, conversion vehicles, travel trailers and fifth-wheels reach their highest among RVers age 55 to 64. Owners age 55 and up surveyed said the top benefits of RV ownership were the freedom to go where and when you want, going camping, visiting family, friends and new places, using the vehicle as a vacation home and traveling in comfort.

While not everyone can backpack or tent-camp due to age or physical restrictions, anyone can enjoy outdoor living at a campground with an RV. RV travelers are surrounded by home comforts in units equipped with comfortable living, dining, sleeping and bathroom facilities. Modern kitchens help older RVers follow special diets and vacation more often and economically by avoiding high-priced restaurants and hotels. On board closets and storage space eliminate the need to pack, unpack and carry bulky suitcases.

RV travel also fosters a sense of community, offering mature travelers a valuable network of friends who share a common interest. Camping clubs, which hold annual conventions, regional rallies, campouts and other events to bring RVers together, provide an active social network on the road. The Good Sam Club, Family Campers and RVers, Family Motor Coach Association, Loners on Wheels and Loners of America are among the national camping clubs that are popular with midlife and older Americans.

Whether it's for frequent getaways or "snowbird" trips to warmer climates, mature Americans choose RV campgrounds offering expanded facilities and a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, shuffleboard and social events. When not at a campground, senior RVers can be found using their rigs as guesthouses while visiting friends and family.

The flexibility and economics associated with RV travel encourage greater RV use by seniors. Kept packed and supplied, RVs are ready for frequent getaways with little preparation. And, a vacation cost comparison study conducted by the international accounting firm PKF Consulting found RV vacations are overwhelmingly more economical than traditional trips by car, bus, train or airplane, regardless of trip destination or duration. RV vacations cost anywhere from 50 to 80 percent less than comparable vacations. Average campground fees of approximately $21 -- significantly less than the $85 average hotel cost -- account for much of the savings. With the over-50 generation being the fastest-growing population group, it's likely that RV ownership and use rates will rise proportionately based on demographics alone. Currently, the 64 million Americans over 50 represent more than 25 percent of the total adult population. They have combined incomes of more than $800 billion, control 51 percent of the nation's discretionary income and account for 40 percent of consumer demand.

As important as their numbers and spending power are their travel habits. Mature Americans travel more frequently and take longer trips. Travelers age 45-54 average 4.2 nights per trip, the 55-64 group averages 4.7 nights, while those 65 and older average 6 nights. This pattern also holds true for senior RVers, who spend up to three times more night in their RVs than their under-50 counterparts.

For non-owners, rentals are a good way to experience RV travel and to help choose a particular RV to buy. Rentals are available through local dealers and national chains such as Cruise America. "Rental Ventures," a guide to touring North America by rental motorhome, is available from Recreation Vehicle Rental Association (RVRA) for $3. A copy of the organization's national directory of rental outlets, "Who's Who in RV Rentals," is $5. Both publications can be purchased for $7.50, which includes first-class delivery. Send payment to RVRA, 3930 University Drive, Fairfax, VA, 22030, or call 1-800-336-0355.

A free booklet on "Choosing & Using Your RV" and a complete directory of RV shows, publications and clubs is available by writing to: RVIA, Dept. PR, P.O. Box 2999, Reston, VA 20195-0999.