Looking to save money while improving your travel experience? RV memberships can help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year while offering a range of benefits and access to unique camping opportunities. Whether you travel full-time or enjoy weekend getaways, you’ll find a membership designed to fit your lifestyle and needs.

At RVT, we understand the value of stretching your travel budget without sacrificing quality, which is why we provide helpful resources to guide you toward cost-saving solutions and easy ways to enjoy your rig to the fullest.

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What Are RV Memberships, and How Do They Work?

RV memberships are designed to provide RVers with cost savings and benefits, such as discounted campground fees, fuel savings, roadside assistance, and access to exclusive services. They are typically offered as an annual or monthly subscription, with varying tiers of benefits depending on the program.

Some are basic packages for occasional travelers, while others provide comprehensive benefits for full-timers or frequent travelers. There are also programs that target one specific aspect of traveling. You can mix and match memberships to align with your priorities, whether that’s reducing daily travel costs or having peace of mind in emergencies.

When shopping for an RV membership, consider the following:

  • Is it worth the cost? For many RVers, the savings on campgrounds and fuel alone can quickly offset the membership fees.
  • Do you need multiple memberships? If your adventures often take you off the beaten path, combining memberships can net you additional savings and give you access to a broader range of services.

Top RV Memberships for Campground Discounts

Thousand Trails

The Thousand Trails Camping Pass lets travelers stay at campgrounds within designated regions or “zones,” with 8 to 23 campgrounds per zone, without paying the regular nightly rate.

  • How it works: The annual membership lets members stay at any of the properties within one zone without paying a nightly fee, and with no cap on the total number of nights stayed over the course of the year. Memberships can be upgraded with additional zones and better booking terms.
  • Restrictions: At the base membership level, stays are capped at 14 consecutive nights. Additionally, if a stay is over 4 consecutive nights, members have to wait 7 nights before the next stay. Upgraded membership levels extend the stay length to 21 days and have no cooling-off period.
  • Who it’s for: Thousand Trails is ideal for full-timers or those who spend significant time in particular regions.

Thousand Trails offers well-maintained facilities, organized events, and amenities like pools and clubhouses. This makes it an attractive choice for families or those looking to enjoy more than just a place to park. With a focus on community and quality, Thousand Trails enhances RVing’s practical and social aspects.

Though the membership cost ramps up quickly at higher levels, the program offers compelling value for RVers who travel extensively and want access to a large network of locations. Interestingly, membership contracts can be bought and sold, including legacy plans that have unique perks not found in current offerings.

Passport America

Passport America offers a straightforward and affordable way to save on private campgrounds.

  • How it works: Members receive a 50% discount at over 1,200 participating campgrounds.
  • Restrictions: While the annual fee is low, be aware of blackout dates and limited availability on weekends or holidays.
  • Who it’s for: Budget-conscious RVers who mix private campground stays with boondocking will find this membership particularly valuable.

One of Passport America’s standout features is its simplicity – an easy-to-use directory helps members locate participating campgrounds across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The 50% discount can quickly add up, especially for those who camp frequently and plan to avoid restrictions.

While it may not be ideal for full-time RVers seeking unlimited stays, Passport America complements other memberships like Thousand Trails or boondocking options. For travelers looking for occasional affordable stops during road trips, it’s an excellent choice.

Good Sam Club

Good Sam Club combines campground discounts with other perks to create a versatile program. The membership fee is affordable, making it a popular choice among RVers.

  • How it works: Members enjoy 10% discounts at over 2,000 campgrounds, fuel savings, and deals on RV accessories.
  • Restrictions: Fuel and accessory discounts are limited to partner chains.
  • Who it’s for: Travelers seeking a multi-purpose membership that spans camping, shopping, and fuel savings.

Good Sam Club is well-known for its convenience and reliability and is an easy choice for RVers looking for a multi-purpose solution. The program’s vast network of campgrounds ensures members always have access to discounted stays, no matter their destination. The fuel discounts at Pilot Flying J locations also make it a valuable choice for long-distance travelers who rack up significant fuel expenses. The additional perks of Good Sam Club, such as discounts on RV accessories and services, further enhance its value.

Harvest Hosts

For a unique camping experience, Harvest Hosts connects RVers with over 5,000 non-traditional locations, such as wineries, farms, breweries, and museums.

  • How it works: Members can stay overnight for free at these locations, with the understanding that purchases from hosts are encouraged – the website suggests a minimum spend of $30.
  • Restrictions: Single-night stays are the norm, though most hosts allow stays up to five nights (for a fee). RVs must be self-contained: no tents, no exterior toilets or cooking facilities, and no dumping of grey/black water on site.
  • Who it’s for: RVers who value experiences over traditional campground amenities.

Harvest Hosts’ appeal lies in transforming camping into an adventure. Imagine waking up in a vineyard, sipping coffee while overlooking rolling hills, or learning about sustainable farming practices firsthand. It’s also a great way to support local businesses while traveling. The program encourages members to make small purchases, such as a bottle of wine or fresh produce, to help sustain these unique destinations. This mutually beneficial relationship fosters a sense of community while enriching your RV experience.

Boondockers Welcome

Harvest Hosts also offers the Boondockers Welcome program, which connects RVers with private property owners.

  • How it works: The membership is generally cheaper than Harvest Hosts and there’s no obligation to make purchases from the hosts, though compensating hosts for hookup usage is expected.
  • Restrictions: There’s a 5-night maximum with a single host in a 90-day window, whether in a single stay or across multiple stays. Dumping of grey/black water or garbage is not permitted on host properties.
  • Who it’s for: RVers who enjoy boondocking but need safe and convenient overnight options.

Boondockers Welcome is particularly appealing to those who prefer quiet, off-the-beaten-path stays. This option is perfect for travelers who avoid crowded campgrounds and prefer a more serene environment.

Another advantage is the community-driven aspect of Boondockers Welcome. Many hosts are RVers themselves who are offering a safe place to park, valuable advice, camaraderie, and sometimes even amenities like water and power.

Fuel Discount Programs That Save You at the Pump

Good Sam Fuel Discount Program

Part of the Good Sam Club membership, its fuel discount program is straightforward, making it ideal for RVers who prioritize convenience. Pilot Flying J locations are strategically located along major highways, ensuring members can refuel efficiently while saving money.

  • How it works: Good Sam Club members get a per-gallon discount of 5 cents off gas and 8 cents off diesel at Pilot Flying J locations.
  • Who it’s for: Frequent travelers and those looking for a general discount membership.

The fuel discount complements the other benefits of Good Sam Club, such as campground and accessory discounts, making it a well-rounded choice for cost-conscious travelers.

TSD Open Roads (For Diesel RVs)

TSD Open Roads is a game-changer for diesel RV owners who travel extensively. By partnering with major truck stop chains, the program provides access to wholesale fuel prices, resulting in substantial savings. The card’s acceptance at many locations also ensures diesel RVers can travel confidently without worrying about finding affordable fuel.

  • How it works: This program offers a fuel card with significant discounts (30–40 cents per gallon) at truck stops.
  • Who it’s for: Diesel motorhome/tow vehicle owners.

These savings can be dramatic for larger motorhomes with big fuel tanks, often amounting to hundreds of dollars annually.

GasBuddy

Though known mainly as a fuel price lookup app, GasBuddy offers a couple of ways to save on fuel: a “Pay with GasBuddy” affiliate card that links to your existing bank account, and a paid membership that offers additional savings.

  • How it works: Using the free affiliate card at Fuelman network stations will save you 2 cents per gallon, with an additional 3 cent discount if auto-payment is enabled. Paying members additionally save 20 cents per gallon on the first 50 gallons of fuel per month, then 5 cents afterward.
  • Who it’s for: Any driver can benefit from the affiliate card; at $7.99 per month for the Plus membership, members break even after 40 gallons.

With a free tier that works at a large number of gas station chains, a GasBuddy membership is a no-brainer. The Plus membership offers discounts up to 47 cents per gallon (with time-limited discounts in the app); while the Premium membership adds roadside assistance, which covers motorhomes, for $9.99 per month. While the Good Sam Club costs less overall, the GasBuddy membership works at a much broader selection of gas stations.

RV Roadside Assistance and Emergency Services

Good Sam Roadside Assistance

Separate from the Good Sam Club discount program, Good Sam Roadside Assistance is designed with RVers in mind, addressing the unique challenges of traveling in a large vehicle. Unlike traditional roadside assistance plans, Good Sam provides coverage for issues such as slide-out malfunctions and towable RV breakdowns, and it even helps with lockouts specific to RV entry points. The service is available 24/7, ensuring members have support whenever and wherever they need it.

  • Key benefits: Unlimited-distance towing, flat tire assistance, and help with RV-specific issues.
  • Who it’s for: RVers wanting affordable and reliable coverage.

The affordable pricing of this membership – it pays for itself on the first call – makes it accessible to RVers who want peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Coach-Net

Coach-Net is another top-tier roadside assistance program catering to RVers with larger or more complex vehicles. The service includes 24/7 support for RV-specific issues, such as mechanical failures or towing oversized rigs. Coach-Net’s technicians are RV-trained, meaning they understand the intricacies of motorhomes, towable RVs, and travel trailers.

  • Key benefit: Premium roadside assistance for large rigs and complex setups.
  • Who it’s for: Full-timers and RVers with advanced rigs who want comprehensive assistance.

While its pricing may be higher than some alternatives, the quality of service justifies the cost, especially for full-time RVers or those with high-end setups. Additional benefits include concierge services for trip planning and discounts on RV parts and maintenance, making it a comprehensive package for serious RV enthusiasts.

AAA Plus RV or Premier RV

AAA is a trusted name in roadside assistance, and its Plus RV or Premier RV plans that extend that reliability to RV owners. Coverage includes towing, flat tire service, and even emergency fuel delivery tailored to the needs of RVs. AAA’s vast network of providers ensures that help is always nearby, no matter where your travels take you.

  • Key benefit: RV-specific roadside assistance combined with traditional vehicle services.
  • Who it’s for: AAA automotive members looking for RV coverage.

Beyond roadside assistance, AAA members also gain access to exclusive discounts at campgrounds, attractions, and hotels, making it a versatile membership. Whether you’re a part-time RVer or enjoy mixing RV travel with other modes of transportation, AAA’s RV plans offer a balanced blend of convenience and savings.

RV Memberships for Community and Education

Escapees RV Club

Escapees RV Club goes beyond discounts and perks to foster a sense of belonging among RVers. Members gain access to a network of fellow travelers who share tips, advice, and encouragement. The club also organizes rallies and events that create opportunities to connect in person, build friendships, and learn from experts in the RVing community.

  • Key benefit: This membership offers support through educational resources, mail forwarding, and events like rallies.
  • Who it’s for: Ideal for RVers who value community and long-term support.

Another standout feature is Escapees’ focus on education. The club offers many resources, including webinars, guides, and in-depth courses on RV maintenance, travel planning, and boondocking. These tools are invaluable for novice and experienced RVers looking to improve their skills and knowledge.

Family RV Association (FRVA, formerly FMCA)

FRVA, formerly the Family Motor Coach Association, is a highly respected organization with a long history of serving the RVing community, particularly motorhome owners. In addition to discounts on insurance and campgrounds, FRVA provides members with access to exclusive events and educational programs tailored to the needs of motorhome enthusiasts.

  • Key benefits: Members receive discounts, insurance options, and educational materials.
  • Who it’s for: FRVA is well-regarded for its focus on motorhome owners and its affordability.

The club also offers unique perks, such as tech support and tire purchasing programs, which can save RVers hundreds of dollars annually. With its affordable membership fee and focus on RV-specific benefits, FRVA is a must-have for those who own motorhomes or other large RVs.

How to Choose the Best RV Membership for Your Needs

When selecting an RV membership, consider your travel habits and preferences.

  • Travel frequency: Full-timers will benefit from memberships like Thousand Trails, while weekenders may find Passport America sufficient.
  • Camping preferences: Private campgrounds, boondocking, or unique stays may influence your choice.
  • Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to invest and how quickly savings will offset the costs.

It’s also important to assess whether you prefer a single, comprehensive membership or a combination of specialized programs. If you enjoy unique stays, Harvest Hosts might be your best choice, while those seeking extensive campground access may prefer Thousand Trails. Take the time to research each program and consider how it aligns with your priorities.

Starting with one or two memberships is often a good approach, especially if you’re new to RVing. As you gain experience and refine your travel style, you can add more memberships to cover additional needs or enhance your savings.

Combining Memberships for Maximum Savings

For the ultimate savings, combine memberships strategically. For instance:

  • Use Passport America for budget-friendly private campground stays.
  • Leverage Good Sam for fuel discounts and roadside assistance.
  • Opt for Harvest Hosts for memorable, unique camping experiences.

Combining memberships allows you to address different aspects of your RV lifestyle while maximizing your savings. For example, an RVer who combines fuel discounts from Good Sam with campground savings from Passport America could save hundreds of dollars annually on routine travel expenses.

Start Saving Today with the Right RV Membership

RV memberships open the door to valuable savings and exclusive perks, whether you’re a weekend camper or a full-time traveler. Take some time to assess your needs, choose the memberships that match your lifestyle, and enjoy the benefits immediately.

At RVT, we know every RVer has unique goals, which is why we make it easy to search for the right RV to fit your budget and travel style. Whether upgrading your current rig or buying your first RV, RVT connects you to the best options on the market. With tools, guides, and trusted listings, RVT supports your journey from start to finish.

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