Recreation vehicle (RV) retail shows across the United States are seeing jumps in attendance and sales compared with last year's shows.

Officials say show attendees are more upbeat, and many are serious first-time buyers choosing RVs for vacations this summer. The stronger economy, improving consumer confidence and low interest rates are luring more consumers to RV shows. Additionally, families are seeking greater flexibility and control�and increasingly turning to domestic road travel�in today's travel climate.

Record attendance was reported at January RV shows in Atlanta, Ga. (up 33 percent over last year); Denver, Colo. (up 30 percent); Port St. Lucie, Fla. (up 29 percent); Nashville, Tenn. (up 20 percent) and Huntsville, Ala. (up 15 percent). The mammoth annual RV retail show in Quartzsite, Ariz., drew an estimated record crowd of nearly 200,000 Jan. 17-25, according to show official Kenny King. "The exhibitors say it was our best show ever," reported King. "Sales were off the charts."

Higher attendance was also seen at January RV shows in Houma, La.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Boston, Mass.; Ft. Myers, Fla.; Allentown, Pa.; Chantilly, Va.; Salem, Ore. and Tampa, Fla.

"We had more young families attend than ever before and they came ready to buy," said Steve Cody of the Inland Northwest RV Show in Spokane, Wash. "Sales were up 20 percent over last year's."

Shows on the east coast reported similar results. Show organizer Kevin McLaughlin of the New Jersey Trailer and Camping Show held Jan. 16-18 in Edison said, "Sales were just phenomenal. Everything was selling, from entry level units to high-end models."

Even wintry weather failed to keep shoppers away. "In spite of an ice storm on the second day of the show, we had as many attendees as 2003 and increased sales," reported Jillian Costic of the Pittsburgh RV Show held Jan. 10-18.

Show attendance is one of the indicators of the overall strength of the RV Industry this year. In addition to being a robust year for retail shows, RV wholesale shipments are forecasted to rise 2.9 percent in 2004. According to University of Michigan Survey Research Center Director Dr. Richard Curtin, RV wholesale shipments to dealers are anticipated to reach the highest level in 25 years.

"Today's travel climate is helping drive attendance up at local RV shows, which translates to stronger sales," explained David Humphreys, president of Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). "Consumers want to slow down and enjoy time with their families while controlling their own travel schedules. More than ever, families are choosing RVs as the comfortable, convenient and hassle-free way to see the country and escape stress in the great outdoors."

"Another enticement for buyers is RV travel's affordability," Humphreys added. A family of four can spend up to 70 percent less when traveling by RV, according to a vacation cost comparison study by PKF Consulting.

Most RV owners believe RV shows play "important" or "very important" roles in their buying decisions, according to a recent RVIA survey. Over half of those surveyed also plan on attending local shows this season.

Local RV shows give consumers first-hand opportunities to walk through various vehicles, see different RV types and floorplans and comparison-shop among numerous manufacturers at one location. From traditional amenities (fully equipped kitchens and baths and central heating/air conditioning) to cutting-edge technology (global positioning systems and automatic leveling systems), consumers continue to be fascinated with the advanced features and creature comforts RVs provide.

For a listing of RV shows, visit www.rvia.org/rvshows. RVIA (rvia.org) is the national association representing more than 500 manufacturers and component suppliers producing approximately 98 percent of all RVs made in the United States.

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Media Contact: Ken Sommer Media Relations Director (703) 620-6003 ext. 304 ksommer@rvia.org