Quantitative Analysis

Published on June 6, 2026 at 6:49 PM

The proportion and trajectory of recreational vehicle (RV) shipments to Canada present a strong business case for Camping World Holdings, Inc. to expand its operations or relocate key hubs to the region. While the U.S. market is currently experiencing a “market correction,” including a 24% decline in wholesale shipments in 2023 (Moreau, 2026), the Canadian market continues to show high demand, heavy reliance on imports, and record‑breaking retail performance (Bush, 2026).

 

1. Canada’s Heavy Dependence on Imported RVs

Canada imports a substantial volume of RVs each year, creating a significant opportunity for Camping World. In 2022, RV manufacturing imports exceeded $3 billion (Bush, 2026). Domestic production cannot meet local demand, as 71% of Canadian‑built RVs are exported rather than sold within the country. By establishing a stronger presence in Canada, Camping World could capture more of the retail and service value tied to these imported units and position itself closer to a market that depends heavily on U.S.‑manufactured RVs.

 

2. Market Growth Compared to U.S. Decline

Canada’s RV market is expanding while the U.S. market continues to cool:

  • U.S. slowdown: Wholesale shipments dropped to 75,824 units in Q1 2024, down 11.7% from the previous year (Moreau, 2026).

  • Canadian strength: Canadian RV sales reached a record $640 million in 2023, following a 29% surge between 2020 and 2021 (Bush, 2026).

  • Future outlook: Canada is projected to grow 4% in 2025, while the U.S. continues to stabilize after pandemic‑era highs (Bush, 2026; Moreau, 2026).

These contrasting trends highlight Canada as a more reliable and growing market for RV retailers.

 

3. A Large and Growing RV Owner Base

Canada’s strong shipment and sales numbers are supported by a robust consumer base:

  • 2.1 million households (14% of the population) own an RV

  • RV ownership has grown 3% since 2019

  • Canadians took 7.7 million RV trips in 2022

  • One‑third of Canadians identify as lifelong campers

(Bush, 2026)

As the “world’s largest retailer of RVs,” Camping World could meet the needs of this large and enthusiastic market by offering sales, service, parts, and accessories in a region where RV culture is deeply rooted (Camping World Holdings, Inc., n.d.).

References

Bush, O. (2026, January 22). RV and camping industry statistics in Canada. Made in CA. https://madeinca.ca/rv-statistics-canada/

Camping World Holdings, Inc. (n.d.). Overview. https://investor.campingworld.com/overview/default.aspx

Moreau, I. (2026, February 13). 90+ RV sales statistics | Fact-checked 2026. Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/rv-sales-statistics/

AI Disclosure: Portions of this analysis were assisted by artificial intelligence tools to support writing, organization, and clarity. All data, interpretations, and final conclusions were reviewed and approved by the author.

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