The following summarizes an October 2008 “letter to the industry” from Gary LaBella, vice president and chief marketing officer for the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA):

Labella started by asking  "What really happened to travel in general and our industry's image in this summer of volatile fuel prices, an economy in turmoil and historically low consumer confidence?"

These are the key points of his conclusions:

• The RV market is down but not out. It is true that 2008 shipments are forecast to fall by 24% to 266,800 units; however, to look at it in a more positive light that means that 76% of the market still remains.

• RVers still hit the road, albeit with some adjustments. According to an RVIA post-summer survey, 48% said fuel prices did not affect their plans at all. Citing both fuel costs and financial concerns, others told us they continued to enjoy RVing, but adjusted by taking fewer trips or staying closer to home. An impressive 80% said they were able to keep RVing because "RV vacations cost less than other options."

• Campgrounds and RV rentals held their own as campground business remained steady, down only slightly from a record year in 2007, and rentals were "flat to slightly up" overall for the summer, according to the largest rental dealers.