More people are camping than ever before, and in 2022 RV manufacturers have new offerings that appeal to every type of traveler. At the first major RV show of 2022, Tampa’s Florida RV SuperShow, diversity of options was the name of the game as manufacturers vied for their share of the growing RV market.
Here are some of the emerging trends we noticed at this year’s show, and some recurring themes we expect to continue as new models roll out in the year ahead.
Rigs Designed With Digital Nomads in Mind
Airstream made waves when it launched a new office floor plan option in the Flying Cloud 30FB last year, and the feature proved so popular that you’ll now see mobile office solutions in other floorplans, including the smaller Flying Cloud 25FB. And it’s not just Airstream that’s recognized the importance of offering ample room for travelers to work while on the road—the Alliance Paradigm 390MP and Forest River Riverstone 42FSKG, among others, now offer dedicated mobile office spaces.
As more office jobs continue to function on a fully remote basis, we can expect to see even more manufacturers looking to capitalize on the “work from anywhere” trend in their designs.
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Smaller Rigs for Minimalist Living
While giant RVs remain a popular option for long-term and full-time travelers, the popularity of vanlife and minimalist living continue to impact the types of new RVs. Sprinter van floor plans are popping up from a variety of manufacturers, with Thor Motor Coach launching several new entries into the market with its new Rize and Scope lines. Teardrop trailers are also becoming more popular, as are truck campers—Lance has a new truck camper option, the 960, that consumers were lined up to tour at this year’s show.
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Maximizing Space With Multi-Functional Furniture
Looking at 2022 floor plans we’re seeing how RV designers are finding new ways to add increased function and storage into their rigs, no matter the size.
Whether that means offering new Murphy bed options or other innovative hybrid furniture solutions like the Keystone Passport Pivot furniture or the Forest River Salem Versa-Lounge system that easily transitions from a dinette to a sectional sofa. With multi-function furniture options, RVs designers are giving travelers flexibility with less wasted space.
More Off-Grid Options for Boondockers
As campground availability continues to be scarce, more RVers are looking at boondocking as an alternative to the traditional campground. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by introducing new RVs designed with off-roading and off-grid living in mind. The new Jayco Terrain claims it can get you “anywhere you want to go,” and Winnebago offers a 4×4 camper van option, the Revel, as well as an all-new, off-roading capable Class C, the EKKO. As more RV manufacturers look into adding overlanding capabilities to their rigs, we can expect to see even more options in this space soon.
Indoor-Outdoor Living
Not only are manufacturers creating rigs that help you get out into nature and explore hard-to-reach places, but they’re also coming up with new ways to bring the outside into your camper.
The “party patio” concept that’s swept the toy hauler division continues to be a popular option, and travel trailer buyers will love the panoramic windshield on the new lightweight inTech Terra, which offers sweeping views of your surroundings from the comfort of the couch. Rear hatches and doors that are common on Class B models are also popping up in surprising places, such as on the back of some Airstream Flying Cloud models. These features make it easier than ever to embrace your surroundings without sacrificing comfort.
Expanding Kitchens, Inside and Out
RV manufacturers have shifted away from dark wood cabinetry in recent years and instead embraced the light and airy color schemes that are increasingly popular among residential homes. Airstream is even partnering with Pottery Barn to better capitalize on this trend.
With each passing year, we’ve also noticed a greater emphasis on kitchen elements like upscale appliances and high-end finishes. Many RV kitchens now include islands and bar areas that are incorporated into the living space. There’s also an increased focus on outdoor kitchens, which now often come standard with the beloved Blackstone Griddle.
Comfort for Everyone
King-sized beds, big bunk rooms with hefty weight limits, and pet-friendly features—RV manufacturers are offering more options than ever before to make their rigs comfortable for everyone at the campground.
New for 2022 is the Forest River Riverstone 442MC floor plan, which offers a drop-down, queen-sized bed in the living room, enabling a better sleeping experience outside of the owner’s bedroom. Many manufacturers are also creating bunks with higher weight limits —up to 750 pounds in some cases—signaling that rigid jackknife sofas are out, and big, comfy beds are in. Combine this with the continued emphasis on luxe living room seating and entertainment areas, and it all adds up to an enhanced experience for all.
It’s Electric
THOR Industries made waves at the RV SuperShow, unveiling its 22-foot electric Airstream eSTREAM travel trailer and the THOR Vision Vehicle Class B motorhome. The industry-first electric chassis technology of these rigs reportedly increases driving range, while also enabling owners to camp off-grid for more than a week without the need for electric hookups or generators.
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These offerings are just some of the new ways manufacturers are looking to expand on their electric and eco-friendly offerings, signaling a trend that’s likely to continue as technology further evolves.
Togo RV is part of a joint venture, partially owned by THOR Industries, Inc., of which Airstream, Jayco, Keystone RV, and Thor Motor Coach are subsidiaries.
