Summary
Understanding Different Types of RV Clubs
There are a variety of RV club types available, each offering unique benefits that cater to different travel needs. RV Discount Clubs provide discounts at RV parks along with various other perks. Alternatively, RV Travel Club memberships may be based on the specific make and model of your RV, or they may cater to particular groups such as the Special Military Active Retired Travel Club (S*M*A*R*T). Campground Membership Clubs usually require the outright purchase or lease of an RV lot or a timeshare.
Types of RV Clubs
Some of the more well-established RV clubs include:
National Discount Clubs
Specialty RV Travel Clubs
Campground Membership Clubs
- Thousand Trails
- Sunrise Resorts
- Western Horizon Resorts
RV Club Benefits and Features
If you are considering joining one of the many RV Clubs, it’s important to understand that they are not all the same; however, they typically share many benefits and features. It can be overwhelming to decipher what each club offers, as some may present far more features than you actually need. Use the checklist below to identify what you seek from an RV club and to compare the offerings of various clubs.
The first factor to evaluate is where you plan to travel. A regional club may provide more relevant benefits than a national one, even if their pricing is similar. By defining your expected travel locations, you can eliminate RV club options that do not meet your regional needs, whether nationwide, in Canada, Mexico, or specific areas of the country.
Moreover, ensure that the benefits align closely with your requirements. The available benefits can be extensive, with prices ranging significantly—from around $40 to $150 annually, and potentially several thousand dollars for campground memberships. While it’s essential not to overpay for features you won’t utilize, you might be surprised by the extensive value some RV clubs offer.
For those who are new to RVing, becoming a member of one of these clubs can significantly enhance your RV experience and assist in meeting your unique travel requirements. Engage in RV forums to ask questions and learn from the experiences of others. Each RV club offers different advantages, so take the time to compare not only their features but also customer reviews to make an informed decision.