Compare Popular RV Membership Sites
Contents
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Are you looking for the best membership site to join as an RV enthusiast? Do you want to know the pros and cons of different options available to you?
If so, you're in the right place! In this blog post, I'm going to compare four popular membership sites for RVers: Escapees RV Club, Xscapers RV Club, Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome. I'll tell you what they offer, how much they cost, and what kind of benefits you can expect from them. Let's get started!
Escapees RV Club
Escapees RV Club is one of the oldest and largest membership sites for RVers. It was founded in 1978 by a couple who wanted to share their passion for full-time RVing with others. Today, it has over 60,000 members and offers a variety of services and benefits, such as:
– Discounts on campgrounds, fuel, propane, mail forwarding, insurance and more.
– Access to over 1,000 Escapees parks and co-ops across the US and Canada.
– Educational resources and events on topics like RV maintenance, safety, budgeting and lifestyle.
– Community support and social activities through local chapters, special interest groups and online forums.
– Advocacy and representation for RVers' rights and interests.
The annual membership fee for Escapees RV Club is $49.95 for US residents and $59.95 for Canadian residents. You can also opt for a lifetime membership for $850.
Xscapers RV Club
Xscapers RV Club is a branch of Escapees RV Club that caters to working-age RVers who are looking for adventure and flexibility. It was launched in 2015 by a group of young full-time RVers who wanted to create a community of like-minded people. Xscapers RV Club offers the same benefits as Escapees RV Club, plus:
– Access to Xscapers Convergences, which are gatherings of Xscapers members in different locations where they can network, socialize and explore together.
– Access to Xscapers Job Board, which is a platform where Xscapers members can find remote work opportunities or post their own skills and services.
– Access to Xscapers Blog and Podcast, which feature stories, tips and advice from Xscapers members on various aspects of RVing.
The annual membership fee for Xscapers RV Club is the same as Escapees RV Club: $49.95 for US residents and $59.95 for Canadian residents. You can also opt for a lifetime membership for $850.
Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts is a unique membership site that allows RVers to stay overnight at over 2,000 farms, wineries, breweries, museums and other attractions across the US and Canada. It was founded in 2010 by a couple who wanted to offer RVers a more authentic and memorable travel experience. Harvest Hosts offers the following benefits:
– Free overnight stays at any of the participating hosts' locations.
– Access to exclusive discounts on products and services from the hosts.
– Opportunity to support local businesses and learn about their history and culture.
– Chance to meet other RVers and hosts who share a passion for travel and adventure.
The annual membership fee for Harvest Hosts is $99. You can also upgrade to a Harvest Hosts + Golf membership for $139, which gives you access to over 400 golf courses where you can stay overnight as well.
Boondockers Welcome
Boondockers Welcome is another membership site that allows RVers to stay overnight at private properties owned by fellow RVers. It was founded in 2012 by a mother-daughter duo who wanted to help RVers find safe and legal places to boondock. Boondockers Welcome offers the following benefits:
– Free overnight stays at any of the host locations listed on the site.
– Access to reviews and ratings from other guests and hosts.
– Ability to filter hosts by location, amenities, rig size and availability.
– Option to become a host yourself and earn credits for future stays.
The annual membership fee for Boondockers Welcome is $79. There is an option to combine a Boondockers Welcome membership with a Harvest Hosts membership at a substantial discount.
Now lets explore each membership in more depth. I’ll show you how to get any additional questions you might have answered about each membership.
Escapees RV Club Membership Review
If you are an RV enthusiast who loves freedom, adventure and community, you might have heard of the Escapees RV Club. This club is one of the oldest and largest RV membership organizations in the world, with over 60,000 members. But what exactly does it offer and is it worth joining? In this blog post, I will write a detailed review of the Escapees Club membership and explain to you all the benefits and member complaints of having an Escapees Club membership.
First of all, let me tell you how much it costs to join the Escapees RV Club. The annual membership fee is $49.95 for US residents, $59.95 for Canada and Mexico residents, and $79.95 for international residents. You can also buy a lifetime membership for $850. If you are an active-duty military or a veteran, you can get a special discount as a thank you for serving your country. You can join online, by phone, or by mail.
Escapees/Xscapers RV Club Life Membership! If you are a current member interested in a life membership, you may also call Escapees business office at 888-757-2582 to receive a prorated Life membership. $850 (USD) Life membership for residents of the USA.
Now that you know the price, let me tell you what you get for your money. The Escapees RV Club offers a total support network for all RVers, regardless of their travel style, type of RV, or experience level. Here are some of the main benefits of being an Escapee:
– Community: The Escapees RV Club is all about community. You can connect with other like-minded RVers through various events, groups, chapters, and online forums. You can also join Xscapers, a community within Escapees that caters to working age RVers who seek adventure and social activities.
– Education: The Escapees RV Club provides a wealth of information and resources to help you learn about RVing. You can access webinars, seminars, articles, podcasts, newsletters, and more on topics such as RV maintenance, safety, legal issues, budgeting, boondocking, etc. You can also enroll in the RVers Boot Camp, a comprehensive training program that covers everything you need to know to be a confident and safe RVer.
– Services: The Escapees RV Club offers a range of services to make your RV lifestyle easier and more affordable. Some of these services include:
– Mail Forwarding: You can use the Escapees mail forwarding service to receive your mail and packages wherever you are. You can choose from different plans and options to suit your needs. You can also use the Escapees address as your domicile in Texas, Florida, or South Dakota.
– RV Parking: You can save money on RV parking by using the Escapees network of parks, co-ops, discount parks, and boondocking locations. You can also join the Escapees Home Exchange program to swap homes with other members.
– Roadside Assistance: You can get peace of mind on the road with the Escapees Roadside Assistance program. This program covers towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, lockout service, battery jumpstart, and more for your RV and towed vehicles.
– Job Board: You can find work opportunities that suit your RV lifestyle on the Escapees Job Board. This board lists jobs from employers who are looking for RVers with various skills and experience levels.
– Discounts: The Escapees RV Club members enjoy exclusive discounts from partner companies such as Battle Born Batteries, Harvest Hosts, Passport America, RVer Insurance Exchange, etc. You can also get discounts from hundreds of commercial members and RV parks across the country.
As you can see, the Escapees RV Club offers a lot of value for your money. But is it perfect? Of course not. No club is without its flaws and drawbacks. Here are some of the common complaints that I have heard from some members:
– Some of the Escapees parks and co-ops are outdated and need maintenance.
– Some of the events and activities are geared towards older RVers and may not appeal to younger or more adventurous ones.
– Some of the services and discounts are not available in all states or countries.
– Some of the information and resources are outdated or inaccurate.
These complaints may or may not affect your decision to join the Escapees RV Club. It depends on your personal preferences and expectations. I suggest that you do your own research and talk to other members before you sign up.
In conclusion, I think that the Escapees RV Club is a great club for RVers who want to enjoy freedom, adventure and community on the road.
Learn More About Escapees Club Now!
Xscapers RV Club Membership Review
Hey, fellow RVers! Are you looking for a way to connect with other working-aged RVers who share your passion for travel and adventure? Do you want to join a community that offers resources, events, and support for your nomadic lifestyle? If so, you might be interested in learning more about the Xscapers RV Club!
Xscapers is a community within Escapees RV Club created for working-aged RVers. Escapees is a well-established RV club that provides a total support network for all RVers, including mail forwarding, discounts, education, advocacy, and more.
Xscapers is inspired by the club's original roots, when founders Joe and Kay Peterson were just 43 years old and working on the road. Xscapers aims to bring Escapees back to its roots of providing services for working-age RVers.
Xscapers is not a separate membership from Escapees. When you join Escapees for an annual fee of $49.95, you get access to all the benefits and services of both Escapees and Xscapers. You can choose to identify as an Xscaper, an Escapee, or both. You can also switch between the two at any time.
So, what are the benefits of being an Xscaper?
Here are some of the highlights:
– Convergences: These are gatherings of Xscapers that are held throughout the year in different locations across the country. Convergences are designed to accommodate working RVers, with activities scheduled in the evenings and weekends. They offer a mix of socializing, networking, exploring, and learning. You can expect to meet like-minded RVers who share your interests and values and make lifelong friends along the way.
– Events: Xscapers also hosts various events throughout the year, such as rallies, festivals, seminars, webinars, and meetups. These events are opportunities to learn new skills, discover new places, have fun, and connect with other Xscapers. Some of the past events include Quartzsite Bash, Annual Bash, Alaska Cruise, Halloween Convergence, Balloon Fiesta Convergence, and more.
– Resources: Xscapers provides a wealth of resources for working-aged RVers, such as blogs, podcasts, videos, newsletters, social media groups, forums, job board, and more. These resources cover topics such as working on the road, traveling with kids or pets, boondocking, health care, taxes, internet connectivity, and more. You can also find tips and advice from experienced Xscapers who have been there and done that.
– Support: Xscapers is more than just a club; it's a family. You can count on your fellow Xscapers to support you in your journey, whether it's by offering help, advice, encouragement, or companionship. You can also give back to the community by volunteering, mentoring, hosting events or convergences, or sharing your story. Xscapers is a place where you can belong and thrive as a working aged RVer.
Of course, no club is perfect and there may be some drawbacks or complaints from some members. Here are some of the possible cons of being an Xscaper:
– Availability: Depending on where you are located or traveling to, there may not be many convergences or events near you. You may have to travel far or plan ahead to attend them. Some convergences or events may also sell out quickly or have limited capacity from past COVID-19 restrictions.
– Cost: While the annual membership fee of $49.95 is reasonable for all the benefits and services you get from Escapees and Xscapers combined, some convergences or events may have additional fees that vary depending on the location and activities involved. You may also have to pay for camping fees or other expenses related to attending them.
– Compatibility: While Xscapers is a diverse and inclusive community that welcomes all working-aged RVers regardless of their age, background, lifestyle, or preferences, you may not always click with everyone you meet at convergences or events. You may have different personalities, opinions, interests, or goals than some of the other members. You may also prefer a different pace or style of travel than some of the other members.
Overall, we think that Xscapers is a great club for working-aged RVers who want to connect with other like-minded RVers and enjoy their nomadic lifestyle to the fullest. We have been members for over two years now and we have had nothing but positive experiences with Xscapers.
Learn More about Xscapers RV Club Now!
Harvest Hosts Membership Review
If you love traveling in your RV and exploring new places, you might have heard of Harvest Hosts. Harvest Hosts is a membership program that allows RVers to stay overnight at over 2000 locations across the US and Canada, such as farms, wineries, breweries, museums, and golf courses. Sounds amazing, right? But is it worth it? In this blog post, I will give you a detailed review of the Harvest Hosts membership and explain to you all the benefits and member complaints of having a Harvest Hosts membership.
Benefits of Harvest Hosts Membership
One of the main benefits of Harvest Hosts is that it gives you access to unique and scenic locations that you wouldn't find in a typical campground. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping in a vineyard or watching the sunset over a lavender field. You can also enjoy the local products and experiences that each host offers, such as wine tasting, farm tours, golfing, and more. You might even make some new friends along the way!
Another benefit of Harvest Hosts is that it saves you money on camping fees. The membership costs $99 per year (or $139 if you want to add golf courses), which is less than what you would pay for a few nights at a campground. Plus, there are no additional fees for staying at any of the hosts' locations. The only requirement is that you support the host by making a purchase of their products or services. This way, you can show your appreciation and help them sustain their business.
A third benefit of Harvest Hosts is that it gives you flexibility and freedom in your travel plans. You don't have to worry about making reservations or checking in and out at specific times. You can simply browse the online directory or use the app to find a host near your destination and contact them to request a stay. Most hosts are very welcoming and accommodating, and will let you know where to park and what amenities are available. You can stay for up to 24 hours at each location, but some hosts may allow you to extend your stay if they have space and availability.
Member Complaints of Harvest Hosts Membership
Of course, no membership program is perfect, and Harvest Hosts has some drawbacks that you should be aware of before joining. Here are some of the common complaints that members have about Harvest Hosts:
– Limited availability: Some hosts may have limited space or availability for RVers, especially during peak seasons or holidays. You may have to contact several hosts before finding one that can accommodate you. It is recommended that you contact the host at least 24 hours in advance to request a stay, but some hosts may require more notice or have specific arrival times.
– Lack of amenities: Unlike campgrounds, most hosts do not provide any hookups or facilities for RVers. You will need to be self-contained and have enough water, power, and waste storage for your stay. Some hosts may offer water or electricity for a fee, but this is not guaranteed. You will also need to follow the host's rules and respect their property and privacy.
– Variable quality: The quality and experience of each host may vary depending on their location, size, type, and personality. Some hosts may offer more than others in terms of products, services, activities, or views. Some hosts may be more friendly and sociable than others. Some hosts may have more noise or traffic than others. You will need to do your research and read the reviews before choosing a host that suits your preferences and expectations.
Our Feelings on Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts is a great membership program for RVers who want to explore new places and support local businesses. It offers many benefits such as unique locations, cost savings, and flexibility. However, it also has some drawbacks such as limited availability, lack of amenities, and variable quality. You will need to weigh the pros and cons and decide if Harvest Hosts is right for you.
If you are interested in joining Harvest Hosts, you can use my referral link below to get 15% off your first year of membership. This is an affiliate link, which means I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you sign up through it. Thank you for your support!
Grab a 15% Discount on Harvest Hosts now!
Happy travels!
Boondockers Welcome Membership Review
Let's explore a Boondockers Welcome Membership in more depth and explain all the benefits and member complaints of having a Boondockers Welcome Membership.
Boondockers Welcome is a membership program for RVers that allows them to stay overnight on private property for free. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, we will share our honest opinion of this service, based on our own experience and the feedback from other members. We will cover the following topics:
– What is Boondockers Welcome and how does it work?
– What are the pros and cons of Boondockers Welcome?
– How much does Boondockers Welcome cost and is it worth it?
– How to find and book a host location with Boondockers Welcome?
– How to become a host with Boondockers Welcome and get a free membership?
– What are some tips and best practices for using Boondockers Welcome?
What is Boondockers Welcome and how does it work?
Boondockers Welcome is a membership program that connects RV travelers with hosts who offer free overnight parking on their property. The hosts are usually fellow RVers who have some extra space to accommodate guests, such as a driveway, a backyard, a farm, or a vacant lot. The guests are expected to have a self-contained RV that can dry camp for the duration of the stay, which is usually one or two nights.
The idea behind Boondockers Welcome is to provide a safe, convenient, and affordable alternative to campgrounds and other paid parking options. It also gives RVers a chance to meet new people, make friends, and learn from locals.
Boondockers Welcome currently has over 3,000 hosts across the US and Canada, offering a variety of locations and amenities.
What are the pros and cons of Boondockers Welcome?
Like any service, Boondockers Welcome has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the main ones:
Pros:
– You can save money on camping fees by staying for free with hosts.
– You can find unique and scenic locations that are not available in campgrounds.
– You can meet friendly and helpful hosts who can share their knowledge and tips about the area.
– You can enjoy more privacy and quietness than in crowded and noisy campgrounds.
– You can access some host locations that offer hookups, such as water, electricity, or sewer.
– You can use the Harvest Hosts mobile app to search for host locations, request stays, communicate with hosts, and more.
Cons:
– You may have limited availability of host locations in some areas or during peak seasons.
– You may have difficulty finding host locations that can accommodate large or heavy RVs.
– You may have to follow some rules and expectations from the hosts, such as arrival time, departure time, pet policy, etc.
– You may have to deal with some inconveniences or challenges, such as narrow roads, low branches, uneven ground, etc.
– You may have to plan ahead and book your stays in advance, as some hosts may not accept last-minute requests.
– You may have to rely on your own resources and equipment for boondocking, such as solar panels, batteries, generators, etc.
How much does Boondockers Welcome cost and is it worth it?
Boondockers Welcome charges an annual membership fee of $79 for guests who want to stay with hosts. This fee gives you unlimited access to all the host locations for one year. That's about the cost of one night in a campground!
If you want to become a host yourself and offer your property to guests, you can get a free membership. All you need is a suitable space for RVs and a willingness to welcome travelers. You can also set your own rules and availability for your location.
So, is Boondockers Welcome worth it? We think it depends on your travel style and preferences. If you enjoy boondocking and meeting new people, Boondockers Welcome can be a great option for you. It can save you money, enrich your experience, and expand your network. However, if you prefer full-service campgrounds or more flexibility and spontaneity, Boondockers Welcome may not be the best fit for you.
How to find and book a host location with Boondockers Welcome?
Browse the host map or search by location, amenities, or availability. You can filter your results by the size of your rig, the type of parking spot, the hookups available, the pets allowed, and more. You can also read the host's profile and reviews to learn more about them and their location.
Contact the host you are interested in staying with. You can send them a message through the website or call them directly if they provide their phone number. Be polite and respectful and introduce yourself and your rig. Let them know when you would like to arrive and depart, and any special requests or questions you have.
Wait for the host's response. They may accept your request right away, ask for more information, or decline if they are not available or comfortable with your stay. Be patient and flexible, and don't take it personally if they say no. There are plenty of other hosts to choose from.
Confirm your stay with the host. Once they accept your request, you will receive a confirmation email with their address and directions. You can also view their location on the map and get driving directions from your current location. Make sure to follow their instructions and rules and communicate any changes or delays in your arrival or departure.
Enjoy your stay with the host. When you arrive, greet them warmly and thank them for their hospitality. Follow their lead on how much interaction they prefer, and respect their privacy and property. You can offer to help with chores, share a meal, or exchange stories and tips. You can also leave them a small token of appreciation, such as a bottle of wine, a gift card, or a Boondockers Welcome sticker.
Leave a review for the host. After your stay, you can rate and review the host on the website. This helps other guests find suitable hosts and helps hosts improve their hosting experience. Be honest and constructive and highlight what you liked and what could be improved. Don't forget to thank them again for their generosity.
Finding and booking a host location with Boondockers Welcome is easy and fun. You can save money on camping fees, meet new friends, and discover new places along your RV journey. So what are you waiting for? Join Boondockers Welcome today and start boondocking!
Learn More About Boondockers Welcome Now!
Conclusion:
As you can see, there are many membership sites for RVers that offer different kinds of benefits and experiences. Depending on your preferences, budget and travel style, you can choose one or more of them to enhance your RV lifestyle. I hope this blog post has helped you compare them and make an informed decision. Happy travels!