RV Show Sales Rise Twenty Percent

PEORIA - Most people would like to go on a vacation. But not everyone is willing to take one, especially with financial security on the minds of many Americans.

However, one industry is finding new success by helping people save money on the open road.

Ticket sales at the Central Illinois Recreational Show in Peoria increased nearly 20 percent this year. The showcase of more than 100 RVs, boats, and other vacationing goods has also expanded.

Tim Mason, who helps oversee the show, says it's a sign that the market is growing.

"It's not necessarily recession proof but you gotta' get away," he said.  

Despite recent trends of money pinching by American consumers and concerns about government spending, Mason says the show is growing because it represents two things that most people want: a chance to vacation and to save money.

 "We're seeing that people are finding that camping is a great way to have vacations, less expensive," said Teresa Latham, RV Sales Manager of Brown & Brown RV.  

That's why Latham says more people are doing away with week-long vacations, and investing in RVs.

Rhonda Palm bought an RV last year and says its been a money saver.

"If we decide on a Friday night to go on a whim, we can pack up and go, and still get away. We can feel like we're not at home and still not spend a lot of money," he said.  

That's not to say RVs don't cost money. Top prices at this year's show hit more than $100,000. And with budgeting on many people's minds, Latham says she has to adjust.

"Even here at the show, for a couple of our units, we started at one price and we dropped them just so we could meet the customers' needs," said Latham. "We want them to be able to buy. We want them to be able to shop."

Some of RVs could be purchased for less than $10,000.

However, some customers say their biggest concern with buying an RV is higher gas prices.