What's New in The Canadian RV Industry in 2025

Canada’s recreational vehicle (RV) industry is set for an exciting shift in 2025, with sustainability, versatility, and local craftsmanship taking center stage. Manufacturers are focusing on energy-efficient designs, lightweight materials, and luxury amenities as glamping continues to rise in popularity and Canadian RV vacations are top of mind—with touring routes like the Heart of Canada Tour, the Lake Superior Circle Tour, the Grand Algoma Tour, and the Lake Temiskaming Tour all topping the bucket list for travellers this year. (Not to mention Ontario’s most scenic drive!)

At the same time, more campers are opting for domestic brands and pre-owned trailers, both as a cost-saving measure and a nod to sustainability. So, what does this mean for the Canadian RV market? Let’s take a look at where the market stands this year and where to spend our hard-earned money.

RV Sales Trends in 2025

According to Kampgrounds of America (KOA), 33% of Canadians have camped their entire lives, and 54% of camping households plan to extend their trips this year. With predicted changes in travel patterns for 2025 it’s estimated that many RVers will choose to buy and travel within Canada.

For those considering an RV purchase, the decision between new and used models hinges on personal camping needs, budget, and market trends. And with Northern Ontario offering some of the most scenic campgrounds, there’s never been a better time to hit the road.

Wealth Transfer and the RV Market

The "Great Wealth Transfer" is shifting trillions of dollars from Baby Boomers to their heirs, primarily Gen X. This shift is expected to impact the RV market, particularly among the 50-60 age group. With increased disposable income, many are upgrading to newer, more luxurious RV models, leading to a surge in sales and custom-built units.

Buying a New RV: What to Know

Buying a new RV is tough on the nerves and pocketbook, given the average 40% markup on new trailers. The profit margin on RV sales is much higher than in the automobile industry. A MSRP price on a trailer, for example, isn’t the price a dealer actually pays for a unit, merely the suggested price set by the manufacturer. Take an RV with a $100,000 MSRP at your local dealership. A trailer with a $100,000 MSRP may have only cost the dealer $75,000, meaning a "$5,000 below retail" sale price still results in a $20,000 profit. Before purchasing, be sure to research dealer markups, negotiate pricing, and compare financing options. Understanding these pricing tactics can save you thousands.

Buying Used Can Make Sense

A survey by the Caravan and Motorhome Club of Canada found that 95% of respondents were satisfied with their decision to purchase a pre-owned RV over a new one. Take it from me, an avid RVer who has bought (and sold) nearly a dozen trailers over the years—buying pre-owned a cost-effective option provided you make the right choices and know what to look for. I have purchased 3-4-year-old trailers that look brand new, at less than half the original retail price. Since many seasonal campers use their trailers only a few times each summer, buying used can be a smart investment.

Best Time to Buy Pre-Owned

The best deals on used RVs typically surface in the fall at the end of the camping season, though early spring can also yield hidden gems. Post-pandemic, RV sales surged, but with supply now exceeding demand, it’s currently a buyer’s market.

The Push for Canadian-Made RVs

A renewed focus on buying Canadian-made products is driving RV consumers toward local manufacturers known for quality craftsmanship and sustainability. Here are some standout brands worth considering:

Safari Condo

Manufactured in Quebec and known for durable, lightweight trailers, Safari Condo offers a premium camping experience with all their available models. Their attention to detail, innovative designs, and high-end materials make them the top choice for Canadian trailer enthusiasts seeking reliability. Safari Condo offers several RV models, including the Alto, a lightweight option, and the Plateau, a more spacious camper. Each trailer emphasizes pristine construction, easy towing, and eco-friendly features. Safari Condo trailers are often compared to Airstream for their high build quality and superior design.

Outback Trillium Trailers

Ontario’s beloved Trillium fiberglass camper has long been a favorite among vintage trailer enthusiasts. Known for its retro design and durability, the Trillium offers easy towing and a cozy interior with modernized features. If you can find an old Trillium trailer in good shape, they are perfect for those seeking a combination of nostalgia, quality craftsmanship, and portability. An Alberta company produces a throwback to the Trillium called the Outback, a trailer with more modern technology, which means smaller, more efficient components are going into it yet retaining the Trillium’s charm and practicality.

Final Thoughts

As another exciting camping and RV season gets underway in Northern Ontario, it's all about getting out in the great outdoors with family and friends and supporting Canadian brands. I hope to see you in a campground this summer!

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