Are you ready for the next total solar eclipse to cross the United States? On April 8, 2024, the moon will block the sun, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to be in the path of totality. People from all over the world will be traveling to the United States to witness this incredible spectacle, just like they did in 2017.
The solar eclipse of August 21, 2017, was the first total solar eclipse visible from the continental United States in nearly 40 years. The path of totality started on the west coast and ended on the east coast, passing through 14 states and giving millions of people a chance to witness this awe-inspiring event. The eclipse lasted just a few minutes, but the experience was unforgettable for those who were lucky enough to be in the path of totality.
According to NASA, the 2017 eclipse was one of the most watched events in human history, with an estimated 215 million American adults watching the eclipse either in person or via media outlets. In total, an estimated 88 million people traveled to see the eclipse, making it the largest mass migration in human history.
Now, as we look forward to the 2024 eclipse, people are already planning their trips to be in the path of totality. It is expected that millions of people will travel to the United States in April of 2024 to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event.
If you’re planning to travel to the United States for the eclipse, one of the best ways to experience it is by taking an RV trip. Not only will you have total freedom and flexibility, but you’ll also be able to avoid crowded hotels and congestion on the roads. Plus, an RV trip will allow you to see other landmarks and national parks along the way, making your eclipse trip even more unforgettable. An RV puts you out in nature with the most optimal views, with your bed, kitchen and bathroom all along for the ride.
To witness the 2024 total solar eclipse, you’ll need to be within the 115-mile-wide path of totality that arches from Mexico to Texas to Maine. The closer you are to the center of that path, the longer totality will last. Keep in mind, though, that most towns in the US aren’t on the path, and RV rentals, hotels and campsites usually book up months in advance. So, make sure you plan ahead if you want to experience the eclipse in the path of totality.
According to experts, the best bets for clear skies in 2024 will be in central Mexico and south-central Texas. But no matter where you go, it’s important to safely view the sun. Be sure to look through safe solar viewing glasses (eclipse glasses) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times. Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, won’t cut it. Safe solar viewers are thousands of times darker and must comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard. You can view the eclipse directly without proper eye protection only during the amazing time of totality – when the moon completely covers the sun. Always supervise children using solar viewers. Find more safety info here.
RVshare rental bookings are up 20x for April 8 compared to other popular travel dates in 2024
RVshare bookings ahead of the 2024 total solar eclipse are in high demand for prime viewpoints along the path of totality that span across Mexico, the US and Canada. Taking place on Monday, April 8, bookings during the 2024 solar eclipse are up +37% compared to any other dates in the year according to RVshare data.
The 2024 total solar eclipse is expected to draw travelers from far and wide seeking the perfect vantage points to witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon, making RV travel a great way to see it firsthand. For RV rentals based near the path of totality for the last total solar eclipse (August 21, 2017), RVshare saw a massive jump of over 150% in bookings compared to surrounding time periods.
With campgrounds already seeing an influx of bookings for the 2024 solar eclipse according to Campspot’s recent press release, RVshare offers a convenient and affordable way to travel to the path of totality. On average, an RV rental costs about $150-200 a night which includes transportation and accommodations. Travelers can even opt for RV delivery to a destination along the passage of the solar eclipse for families or individuals who may not want to physically drive an RV.
“A Total Solar Eclipse is the biggest mass event in the US,” said RVshare’s Travel Expert, Maddi Bourgerie. “Spanning across multiple states, we will see travelers come from all over the world to experience the best and longest eclipse views. When analyzing our data from the last Solar Eclipse in 2017, we know RV rentals close to the path of totality will be sold out. It makes sense as an RV rental is the best way to experience this type of phenomenon and can be booked now for next year.”
RV camping in the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse is the perfect way to experience the spectacle while being immersed in nature. For those looking for campgrounds within the United States, RVshare recommends checking out the below options that offer RV travel accommodations:
- Texas
- Arkansas
- Missouri
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Ohio
- New York
- Vermont
- Maine
The total solar eclipse of 2024 is sure to be an unforgettable event. People from all over the world will be traveling to the United States to witness this incredible spectacle, making it one of the largest mass migrations in human history. For the best experience, consider taking an RV trip, and remember to plan ahead and view the sun safely. We can’t wait to see you in the path of totality! [1][2][3]
