Recreational Shoppers Move Toward AI and Online Credit
New data shows buyers prefer digital tools to navigate rising costs for RVs, boats, and powersports gear.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Buying/Selling
Live Poll
Do you prefer researching and financing large recreational purchases online before visiting a dealership?
The 2026 Future of Buying Study from Rollick shows that shoppers for RVs, boats, and powersports equipment are increasingly seeking AI tools to handle financing and product questions. Most buyers now expect digital credit approval options, though rising costs remain the primary hurdle to finalizing a purchase.
Why it matters
Understanding these trends helps prospective buyers anticipate how dealer interactions are evolving to favor digital tools. As costs continue to influence 84% of consumers, shoppers are using these digital resources to research and secure financing earlier in the process.
The study reveals that 45% of RV shoppers and 40% of marine shoppers now spend four months or longer researching their purchases. Additionally, 54% of RV buyers and 62% of powersports and marine shoppers prefer completing credit approval online.
The players
Rollick
An Austin-based technology company that provides digital retail solutions to over 4,000 dealers in the recreational vehicle and powersports industries.
The details
The report highlights a shift toward digital-first shopping experiences where consumers rely heavily on manufacturer websites for trusted information. By utilizing AI agents, buyers are looking to streamline the acquisition of financing and product details before visiting a dealer. This digital transition aims to simplify the lengthy research periods that currently characterize large recreational vehicle and boat purchases.
Timeline
October 27, 2026: Rollick released the 2026 Future of Buying Study.
2023: Rollick published the previous edition of this study.
The Home Front
The recreational vehicle and boat sectors are moving toward the digital-first sales models already common in the broader automotive industry. This shift reflects a sustained trend where consumers prioritize online transparency and automated financing tools before engaging with traditional dealership staff.
If you are planning a major recreational purchase, expect to see more online credit pre-approval tools on manufacturer websites. You should utilize these digital resources to compare financing options early, as pricing remains the most significant barrier for most buyers.
The takeaway
Digital research and AI-assisted financing are becoming standard for large recreational purchases. Before heading to a dealer, use manufacturer websites to secure pre-approval, which can help you navigate pricing volatility more effectively.
Further reading
For more on managing your large-item shopping process, visit the Buying/Selling section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Star Local.
Live Poll
Do you prefer researching and financing large recreational purchases online before visiting a dealership?
