Would you like to join one of the RV membership clubs? While there are dozens of clubs available to choose from, some are simply better than others because of the great deals and discounts they provide. When you want to make sure you are spending your money wisely on the right membership that you can take advantage of and use as often as you want to, it helps to know more about some of these different clubs. Take a look at this list of four various RV membership clubs that have plenty to offer.
KOA: Kampgrounds of America
The KOA membership will cost you $30 per year. As a valued member, you will have access to thousands of campgrounds, save a percentage of the regular rate for registration, and receive special member-only discounts, which includes discounts on replacement tires and roadside assistance. You can earn rewards after each stay at one of the many campgrounds available to members.
We have stayed at many KOA campgrounds over the last couple of years and have been KOA members during that time. We have stayed and had great experiences at the following KOAs:
We have used the following KOAs as quick in-and-out layovers en route to our destinations. All have been good places to rest our heads for a night, though we can’t speak to the amenities, etc. since we didn’t use any:
- St. Augustine Beach KOA (en route to Disney)
- King’s Dominion/North Richmond KOA (en route to Disney)
- Cape Charles/Chesapeake Bay KOA (en route to Outer Banks, NC)
The Good Sam RV Club
The Good Sam RV Club is, by far, one of the most popular RV membership clubs available. The annual membership will cost you only $27 while giving you access to thousands of campgrounds at deeply discounted rates. If you like the membership enough, you can pay in advance for several years to save even more money.
In addition to saving money, you can reap additional benefits, including saving money on the cost of gas and fuel. Members enjoy the benefits associated with this membership, along with the low annual membership fee that they will pay.
Thousand Trails
The Thousand Trails membership is a bit more expensive than some of the other options on the list. An annual membership will cost starts at $299. You purchase a membership to the geographic zone where you will be camping the most. For a higher cost (currently $599) you can add multiple zones and expand your camping options.
The pass includes access to dozens of stunning campgrounds, including options in both America and Canada. Some of the spots on the list include the Mount Vernon RV Campground, Birch Bay Campground, and the Wilderness Lakes RV Resort. Many of the places on the list provide endless activities for guests to participate in, including skiing, swimming, and hiking.
We received a complimentary one year membership to Thousand Trails when we bought our camper. We thought it was okay. Throughout that camping season we stayed at 5-6 campgrounds within our membership zone. We weren’t overly impressed with the amenities or overall experience at most of them. For us, the biggest drawback with Thousand Trails is their inability to let you book specific site types. They will not guarantee that you will receive a full hookup site, for example. For the cost of that membership, I want to know that I am going to arrive and have sewer hookup, etc.
Passport America
If you are looking for an affordable RV membership, Passport America is a top choice. The cost of this membership is just $44 for the year. Not only is the membership affordable enough, but it also gives you access to more than a thousand different campgrounds for a discounted rate. You can end up staying at these campgrounds for half off the original price of a typical stay.
The Biggest Mistake of Buying an RV Membership Club? Not Using It!
When it comes to joining an RV membership club, it is all about choosing a club that meets your needs. It is in your best interest to do additional research on the perks of each club beforehand.
No matter which club you decide to join, you can rest assured that you will get to save money while having access to some of the most beautiful campgrounds. Not only will you get to enjoy the scenery around you at these different hot spots, but you will also get to participate in lots of fun activities.
Have you joined or are you currently a member of an RV membership club? We would love to hear about your experience! Drop us a comment below and tell us about it!