Camping World is a major retailer in outdoor and camping supplies, offering memberships that cater to frequent campers, RV travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. If you enjoy the RV lifestyle, understanding the different types of memberships available and their costs can help you decide if joining Camping World is right for you. This guide provides an in-depth look at each membership type, the costs, benefits, and tips to maximize your value.
What Is Camping World?
Camping World is a large American retailer specializing in camping gear, RVs, and outdoor supplies. Since its establishment in 1966, it has become a go-to destination for campers, road trippers, and RV owners. With over 185 locations in the United States, Camping World offers everything from RV sales to camping essentials, repair services, and a range of membership plans. These memberships provide exclusive discounts, benefits, and rewards for campers and RVers, tailored to different needs.
Camping World Membership Options
Camping World offers three primary membership tiers, each with unique benefits and pricing. The main membership options are the Good Sam Club Membership, Good Sam Roadside Assistance, and Good Sam Extended Service Plan. Each membership has different features and price points, catering to varying needs. Let’s explore each in more detail.
Good Sam Club Membership
The Good Sam Club Membership is the most popular Camping World membership, offering a range of benefits for a modest annual fee. It focuses on giving campers and RV owners discounts and perks at Camping World locations and Good Sam-affiliated campgrounds.
Cost of Good Sam Club Membership
- Annual Fee: $29 per year
- Two-Year Plan: $50 for two years (save $8)
- Three-Year Plan: $79 for three years (save $10)
These fees are affordable and include multiple benefits that save frequent campers money on camping fees, fuel, and outdoor equipment purchases.
Benefits of Good Sam Club Membership
Fuel Discounts: Members receive discounts at participating gas stations, including Pilot Flying J, which can lead to significant savings on long road trips.
Camping Discounts: Members save 10% on nightly stays at over 2,000 Good Sam-affiliated campgrounds across North America.
Retail Discounts: Receive 5% off Camping World and Gander RV & Outdoors retail purchases, including sales and clearance items.
Members-Only Specials: Access to exclusive offers on outdoor gear, RV accessories, and more.
RV & Auto Protection Discounts: Members get discounts on RV and auto insurance plans.
Free RV Dump Station Access: Access free dump stations at Camping World locations, a convenient service for RV travelers.
This membership is ideal for those who frequent campgrounds and want easy access to discounts on fuel, camping fees, and gear.
Good Sam Roadside Assistance
The Good Sam Roadside Assistance plan offers support for emergency situations on the road. This membership is especially beneficial for RVers, as it covers larger vehicles and provides services designed for roadside emergencies.
Cost of Good Sam Roadside Assistance
- Standard Plan: Approximately $64.95 per year
- Platinum Plan: Approximately $114.95 per year
- Platinum Complete Plan: Approximately $139.95 per year
Pricing for roadside assistance varies based on the level of service chosen, with higher-tier plans offering additional benefits and more extensive coverage.
Benefits of Good Sam Roadside Assistance
Towing Services: Covers towing to the nearest repair facility in case of breakdowns, with no mileage limits.
Flat Tire Service: Technicians will change a flat tire, useful for RVers who have larger tires or complex setups.
Battery Jump-Starts: Help if your battery dies on the road.
Lockout Assistance: Assistance if you lock yourself out of your vehicle.
RV-Specific Benefits: Covers larger RVs, motorhomes, and travel trailers, something that typical roadside assistance may not.
Trip Interruption Assistance: Some plans cover expenses like hotels or meals if your RV breaks down and you’re stranded.
For RVers who travel long distances, Good Sam Roadside Assistance provides peace of mind, knowing they’re covered in emergencies.
Good Sam Extended Service Plan
The Good Sam Extended Service Plan is a vehicle service contract that provides protection against costly repairs. Unlike standard insurance, this plan resembles a warranty, covering the repair or replacement of major vehicle components.
Cost of Good Sam Extended Service Plan
- Costs vary based on the age, make, and model of the RV or vehicle. Quotes are provided upon request and depend on specific vehicle details and coverage level chosen.
- Coverage can range from $100 to several hundred dollars per year, depending on the RV size and service plan selected.
Benefits of Good Sam Extended Service Plan
Comprehensive Coverage: Covers mechanical components, including the engine, transmission, air conditioning, and more.
Parts and Labor Costs: Both parts and labor are covered, saving significant costs on repairs.
Trip Interruption Reimbursement: Reimburses accommodation and meal costs if you experience a breakdown away from home.
Optional Tire and Wheel Coverage: Add-on protection for tire and wheel damage, helpful for those who travel rough or rocky roads.
This plan is best for RV owners who want extended coverage beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, preventing unexpected expenses by covering major repair costs.
Additional Perks of Good Sam Memberships
Camping World members enjoy a variety of additional perks, such as Good Sam Mail Service, discounted RV insurance, and discounted RV financing options. Memberships provide access to exclusive online resources and discounts with various Camping World partners.
Discounts on Camping World Services
RV Repair Services: Members often get discounts on Camping World RV repair services, reducing the cost of regular maintenance.
Propane Discounts: Discounted propane refills at Camping World locations.
Additional Store Discounts: Periodic sales and discounts exclusive to members.
Comparing Camping World Memberships
Each Camping World membership offers specific advantages, and many campers choose to combine memberships for comprehensive coverage.
| Membership Type | Best For | Cost | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good Sam Club | Casual campers, RV travelers | $29/year | Camping discounts, fuel discounts, retail discounts |
| Good Sam Roadside Assistance | Frequent RV travelers | Starting at $64.95/year | Emergency roadside support, towing, flat tire assistance |
| Good Sam Extended Service Plan | RV owners seeking warranty-like protection | Costs vary based on vehicle | Mechanical repair coverage, parts and labor costs covered |
Many campers start with the Good Sam Club membership for discounts on camping and fuel. As they travel more, adding roadside assistance or an extended service plan can provide additional security and savings.
Is a Camping World Membership Worth It?
The worth of a Camping World membership depends on how often you camp or use RV services. Consider these questions to help decide:
How often do you camp or travel? Regular campers benefit more from discounts on fuel, campgrounds, and gear.
Do you own an RV? RV owners benefit most from roadside assistance and extended service plans, as these cover RV-specific needs.
How far do you travel? Long-distance travelers gain peace of mind from fuel discounts and roadside assistance.
For frequent travelers and RV enthusiasts, the benefits can easily outweigh the membership costs.
Tips for Maximizing Camping World Membership Benefits
Plan Stops at Good Sam Campgrounds: Take advantage of the 10% discount whenever possible.
Use Fuel Discounts Strategically: Fuel discounts, especially at Pilot Flying J, can add up on long trips.
Combine with Other Camping World Services: Use Camping World’s RV repair and maintenance services for member discounts.
Check for Promotions: Camping World occasionally offers reduced membership rates or additional perks for new members.
Conclusion
The cost of a Camping World membership is generally affordable, starting at $29 per year. For those who camp or travel frequently, the membership levels provide valuable discounts, assistance, and protection while on the road. For outdoor enthusiasts, a Camping World membership can be a great investment, offering savings and convenience with each adventure.
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