How the 2025 Recession Could Actually Help Your Small Business—Like Renting Out a Travel Trailer
Photo by Marco Bianchetti on Unsplash
We know that talk of a recession can make anyone nervous. The idea of a 2025 economic downturn can leave many small business owners wondering how they’ll make it through the storm. But here’s the thing: recessions aren’t all doom and gloom. In fact, in some cases, they can present unique opportunities for small businesses to thrive.
At One Adventure LLC, we’ve been thinking about how a recession might actually help our travel trailer rental business—and we want to share why we’re cautiously optimistic about what the future holds.
More People Choosing Staycations Over Expensive Vacations
When money’s tight, people are less likely to splurge on big international trips or expensive hotels. But that doesn’t mean they’re giving up on the idea of a getaway. Instead, many people will turn to more affordable options, like staycations or road trips.
That’s where renting a travel trailer can be a big win. With fewer people able to afford pricey hotel stays or flight tickets, families and individuals are more likely to opt for a budget-friendly alternative. A travel trailer rental offers them the chance to hit the road and explore local areas—without the high costs of traditional vacations.
The Desire for Flexibility
In uncertain times, people crave flexibility. A travel trailer offers exactly that. Renters get the freedom to plan a getaway on their terms—no need to commit to rigid hotel bookings or expensive resort packages. This flexibility makes RV rentals an attractive option, especially for those wanting a last-minute escape.
We’re seeing that folks in our community (here in Jacksonville, FL) are more likely to book a weekend getaway or a short vacation in a travel trailer because they know they can cancel or change their plans without a major financial impact. When the economy is shaky, people value the ability to be spontaneous and flexible with their leisure activities.
Cost-Effective Travel Option
Even in tough economic times, people still want to travel. They may just need to do it more affordably. Renting a travel trailer is an attractive option compared to the rising costs of flights, hotels, and dining out. It allows families to save on accommodations and dining by cooking their own meals while on the road.
For a small business like ours, this means a larger pool of potential customers who are actively looking for ways to save while still enjoying time away from home. With the cost of living rising, renting out our travel trailer becomes an even more budget-friendly way for people to explore.
More People Turning to Side Hustles
In a recession, many people look for ways to supplement their income. Some may pick up part-time jobs, while others explore side hustles that align with their skills or interests. One such side hustle is renting out personal property, like a travel trailer.
If you’ve got a trailer that’s just sitting in the driveway, this is the perfect time to make it work for you. Renting out your RV can help offset your own costs—whether it’s covering the monthly payment, paying for maintenance, or simply creating a little extra cushion during tough times.
We’ve found that people are more likely to explore passive income streams when money’s tight, and renting out a travel trailer is a relatively low-cost way to get started.
Fewer Crowded Destinations
If a recession leads to fewer people traveling, it could actually make destinations less crowded. For RVers, this means more open campsites, quieter national parks, and less competition for prime spots. People can still take that much-needed vacation, but now they can enjoy the peace and serenity that might’ve been harder to come by during peak tourist seasons.
For small businesses renting RVs, this is a win. With fewer people traveling overseas or to crowded tourist destinations, RV rentals could see more demand as people search for unique, peaceful escapes close to home.
How One Adventure LLC Plans to Adapt
At One Adventure LLC, we’re taking proactive steps to adapt to the potential recession. Here’s how we’re positioning ourselves to make the most of the situation:
Offering Discounts and Deals – We’re creating more affordable options for renters who may be feeling the financial strain. Special deals, loyalty programs, or referral discounts could help attract new customers and keep existing ones coming back.
Emphasizing the Value of Staycations – With gas prices still fluctuating, we're focusing our marketing on local staycations—offering recommendations for nearby spots in Jacksonville, FL, that are perfect for RV travelers. We’re showing that you don’t have to travel far to have a memorable adventure.
Flexible Booking and Cancellations – In times of uncertainty, flexibility matters. We’re making sure our booking policies are as flexible as possible, so our renters don’t have to stress about last-minute changes.
Final Thoughts: The Recession as an Opportunity
While the idea of a recession might seem scary, it also presents unique opportunities for small businesses. By being adaptable, offering value, and focusing on cost-effective alternatives, businesses like ours can thrive even in tough times. Renting out a travel trailer is just one example of how small businesses can tap into a new wave of demand for more affordable, flexible, and local travel options.
So, don’t let the talk of a recession get you down. Instead, think about how it might open up new doors for your business. If you’ve got a travel trailer or another asset that’s just sitting there, it might be time to turn it into a money-making opportunity!
One Adventure LLC
“Turning adventures into opportunities, no matter the economy.”