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The five-day exhibition at the Florida State Fairgrounds expects to draw more than seniors and retirees.

Florida RV SuperShow looks to pull in new generations this week
 
The Florida RV SuperShow, which starts Wednesday (Jan. 16)  is expected to draw more than 75,000 over a five-day period. Photo courtesy of the Florida RV SuperShow
The Florida RV SuperShow, which starts Wednesday (Jan. 16) is expected to draw more than 75,000 over a five-day period. Photo courtesy of the Florida RV SuperShow
Published Jan. 15, 2019

TAMPA — There will be plenty of seniors and retirees among the 75,000 people expected to attend the five-day Florida RV SuperShow, which starts Wednesday (Jan. 16) at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

But you'll also find a rising number of millennials touring the RVs, according to event organizers and dealers.

The older generation has always found interest in the RV industry, but, RV purchases have seen a rise among adults ages 20-45, according to George Grimm, the Southeast regional manager for RV manufacturer Thor Motor Coach.

Grimm, who also serves on the Board of Directors for The Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA), said the spike in younger generations interest in RV has less to do with lower gas prices and more to do with the experience RV are offering today.

"Most young buyers probably didn't experience this when they were kids," Grimm said. "Some may not have had the chance to experience this because they had split families and now want to experience it and allow their own children to have those experiences as well."

He also said the technology offered in most RV's today are far superior than in past years. Some of the most popular bells and whistles include solar charging systems and multiplex wiring systems that allow technology in the RV to be controlled by the tap of your phone.

WiFi is also far more accessible and as of now Thor Motor Coach offers it as an option for all of its rides. RV enthusiasts no longer have to go on a Netflix cleanse while travelling in their RV's.

It'll be just one of the many features vendors will showcase during the show, according to Dave Kelly, marketing director for the Florida RV SuperShow.

"There's something for those just getting started including the seminars and for those with advanced knowledge on RV's," Kelly said.

There will be two exhibit halls filled with parts and accessories and campgrounds and resorts, tourism information, towing supplies and many other products. Attendees can also take a look at all types of RVs from small travel trailers to bus conversion luxury motorhomes.

"Theses shows in Florida are like the Superbowl for RVs," Grimm said. "Every make, model and floor plan will be seen at this show."

Tickets are $10 per adult and each ticket is good for a free second day return. Children under 16 years old are free. Discounts include Senior Citizens Day on Wednesday when all seniors will get $1 off admission and Military and First Responders get $1 off admission every day of the event. Parking is $8 per car and $14 per RVor bus in cash only. Anyone wanting to do overnight camping can do it with no reservation required. It is $20 per night. For more information, visit FRVTA.org.