Thursday, July 25, 2013

WE BELONG . . . RV Affiliations and Discount Memberships


A sampling of our memberships
Early on we learned to take advantage of discount clubs. During our multiple cross country travels, we found that one particular organization may have a stronger regional presence than others. For example, as members we stay for free at Thousand Trails campgrounds which are found throughout the US; except they are totally absent in the north central states. So that's one reason we chose to join multiple clubs to ensure we can get discount site rates at every stop.  Just in our  2013 Spring Trip (8 weeks May-June), we saved $714.21 off campsite rates. The savings on a one to two night stay typically covers the minimal cost of the annual membership fees. Who doesn't like to save money?

Speaking of saving money, we also do occasional overnight boon docking or dry camping (depending on whom you're speaking with) ... and BLM land or Walmart's are wonderful for that.

As a courtesy, we introduce ourselves to the Walmart store manager with a smile and a basket of provisions, then ask permission to park overnight.  We've never been turned down; but there are some towns with municipal codes that prohibit overnight parking. It's best to ask in lieu of taking the risk of being fined or towed.  The manager always thanks us for being a loyal customer and says "I'll let security know so they will patrol your motor home during their rounds".  We appreciate that and we try to park under a security camera.  Also, we don't put our jacks down or set up an outside camp site; but slides out are okay.

Besides the discounts on campsites, most of these organizations offer product and services discounts.  Many also offer educational seminars, rallies, mail forward service, and regional chapters for traveling with groups.


PROUD MEMBERS OF ...
FMCA - Family Motor Coach Association
Escapees RV Club
Good Sam Club
KOA - Kampgrounds of America
National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series (Senior Pass)
Passport America
Thousand Trails / Encore
RPI Plus - Resort Parks International
RVGC - RV Golf Club 


Thanks again for riding along with us on our journey.
Hope to see you back soon!

Pam, Jim, Maxx and Mollie

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