Rising Fuel Costs Tied to Iran Conflict Shift New Hampshire RV Market

Gasoline prices in New Hampshire have fallen slightly from their peak a month earlier, yet they remain roughly $1 per gallon higher than a year ago, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). Diesel follows a similar pattern, staying more than $1 per gallon above last-year levels. The price pressure is attributed to the ongoing war in Iran, which has disrupted global oil markets and filtered through to regional pump prices.

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Carl Sylvester, owner of Northeast RV Rentals in Northwood, reports that overall demand for RVs and trailers has held steady, but rentals of towable campers have risen faster than full-size RVs. While the higher fuel cost has not directly affected his company’s bottom line, Sylvester observes a ripple effect on consumers’ vacation choices. He notes that renters are opting for shorter trips, staying regional rather than embarking on cross-country journeys, and increasingly requesting delivery of the units instead of picking them up themselves.

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The elevated fuel expense is prompting travelers who might otherwise fly or book costly resorts to “tone it down” and spend a week or two at an RV resort. This trend includes reduced trip distances and abbreviated rental periods, reflecting a broader tightening of vacation budgets amid persistent price pressures.

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State park officials confirm a modest rise in campground usage, reporting about a 4 % increase in the number of campers this year compared with the previous season. The uptick suggests that, despite higher fuel costs, the appeal of outdoor recreation remains strong.

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• “People that would normally take flying trips and expensive vacations, they'll tone it down and maybe go for a week or two to an RV resort,” — Carl Sylvester, Owner, Northeast RV Rentals

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• “I've seen, even when the economy's down, that there's always somebody looking for renting a camper RV.” — Carl Sylvester, Owner, Northeast RV Rentals

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• “Carl Sylvester, owner of Northeast RV Rentals in Northwood, said demand for RVs and trailers hasn't changed, but towable camper rentals are now up more than RVs.” — Carl Sylvester, Owner, Northeast RV Rentals

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• “>> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go <> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go << People are also renting for a shorter amount of time and traveling for shorter distances.” — Carl Sylvester, Owner, Northeast RV Rentals

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