2024 RV Trends with Rick Kessler of RV Business – Episode 2: RVing with Joe & Kait

In this episode of the RVing with Joe & Kait podcast, we delve into the 2024 RV Trends with RV industry expert Rick Kessler of RV Business. Rick highlights the innovative RV Suite from Forest River, explaining why it stands out as the “2024 RV of the Year.” He also shares insights on the current RV market, emphasizing the opportune time for purchases due to dealers’ surplus inventory. Our discussion extends to the future of RVing, particularly the impact and challenges of electric vehicles (EVs) in the industry, and the growth of the overlanding segment. Additionally, we touch on the evolving campground sector and rising camping fees.

This episode is for anyone interested in the latest RV trends and the future of RVing.

2024 RV Trends with Industry Expert Rick Kessler

Where to watch/listen

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Listen on Amazon Music
• Listen on iHeartRadio
• Listen on Pandora
• Listen on Podcast Addict

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Episode Guest

Rick Kessler has been with G&G Media, publishers of RV Business and Woodall’s Campground Magazines, for nearly a decade. In February, he and business partner Scott Stropkai became owners of the small publishing firm headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana. Previously, Rick spent 20-plus years in the newspaper industry.

Links:

• RVBusiness.com
• Woodallscm.com
• RV Business Facebook Page
• RV Business LinkedIn Page
• RV Business YouTube Channel

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

• 2024 RV of the Year RV Business Magazine (Digital Edition)
• Complimentary Subscription to RV Business Magazine
• Florida RV SuperShow
• Overland Camper Tours
• Winnebago Electric RV Tour
• Automated Campground in Italy
• We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
• Newsletter sign up
• Book 1: Take Risks
• Book 2: Tales From the Open Road

Key Highlights

• 2024 RV Trends: Exploration of the latest trends in the RV industry for the upcoming year.
• RV of the Year – RV Suite by Forest River: Discussion on why this model was chosen for its innovative design and functionality.
• Rick Kessler’s Background: Insight into Rick’s extensive experience in the RV industry.
• Current State of the RV Market: Analysis of the present RV market dynamics and why it’s an ideal time to buy an RV.
• Electric Vehicles in RVing: Examination of the integration of electric vehicles in the RV industry, including their potential and limitations.
• Overlanding Segment Growth: Exploration of how overlanding is becoming a significant part of the RV industry, with a focus on new overland vehicle models and market trends.
• Changing Campground Sector: Overview of the increasing corporate investments in campgrounds and the rise in camping fees.
• Future Predictions for the RV Industry: Predictions and insights into what the RV industry might look like beyond 2024, particularly with the adoption of EV technology.
• Practical RV Buying Tips: Offering practical advice for prospective RV buyers in the current market.

Chapters

00:38 Welcome and introduction of Rick Kessler 
03:23 2024 RV of the Year – RV Suite by Forest River
06:26 RV of the Year Selection Process
10:47 Current RV Market, 2024 RV Trends and Beyond
15:05 Why Now is the Best Time to Buy an RV
21:52 Overlanding Segment Growth and New Trends 
29:47 Benefits of Having a Towable RV vs a Motorized RV
33:37 New Entry Level Vehicles from RV Manufacturers
35:10 Increasing Demand and Developments in Campgrounds 
39:20Future of Electric Vehicles in RVing 
44:10 The Impact of EVs on Campgrounds and RV Travel