Hit the Road for Less: Unveiling the Best Road Travel Discounts for Savvy Explorers
There are so many different options to save money when planning the road trip of your dreams! It is initially overwhelming to sort through all of the apps, memberships, and RV clubs to determine which road travel discounts are the best fit for your trip. But with a little guided research, you can navigate your way through based on category.
Gas & Fuel Rewards & Discounts
Here are several gas/fuel travel rewards apps that can help road travelers save money on fuel purchases. Before using any of these apps, be sure to check the availability and terms of rewards or discounts in your specific location, as offerings may vary. Additionally, review the privacy and security features of the apps to ensure the safety of your personal information. Here are some of the top gas and fuel travel rewards programs available.
Shell BoxFuel Rewards
Shell BoxFuel Rewards program allows users to earn discounts on fuel purchases by linking their payment methods to the app. Therefore, points are earned through eligible purchases at participating retailers and can be redeemed for savings at Shell stations.
BPme Rewards
BPme Rewards offers users the ability to pay for fuel from their mobile devices and earn rewards for doing so. Also, users can also find BP gas stations, track fuel transactions, and redeem earned rewards for discounts on future fuel purchases.
Exxon Mobil Rewards+
Exxon Mobil Rewards+ lets users earn points on fuel purchases and in-store purchases at Exxon and Mobil stations. Also, points can be redeemed for discounts on fuel or other eligible purchases.
Shell Fuel Rewards program allows users to earn discounts on fuel purchases by participating in various promotions, linking loyalty cards, and making purchases with partner retailers. Also, the earned discounts can be redeemed at Shell stations.
Speedway Speedy Rewards
Speedway’s Speedy Rewards program lets users earn points on fuel and in-store purchases. Points can be redeemed for discounts on fuel, free merchandise, or partner rewards.
GetUpside
GetUpside offers cashback on gas purchases at participating gas stations. Also, users can find nearby gas stations offering cashback, claim the offer, upload a receipt, and receive cashback directly to their account.
GasBuddy not only helps users find the cheapest gas prices but also offers a Pay with GasBuddy feature that provides savings on fuel purchases at participating gas stations. Users can link their checking account to the app for additional discounts.
Waze, a popular navigation app, provides information on gas prices and offers discounts through its partner program. So, users can find the best fuel prices along their route and potentially save on fuel purchases.
Best Roadside Assistance Programs for Travellers
Several roadside assistance programs cater to the needs of travelers, offering services such as towing, flat tire assistance, fuel delivery, and more. Here are some of the best roadside assistance programs for travelers.
AAA is one of the most well-known and comprehensive roadside assistance programs. It offers services like towing, battery service, fuel delivery, flat tire assistance, and more. And, AAA members also enjoy additional benefits such as travel discounts.
Good Sam provides roadside assistance services tailored for RVers and regular travelers. Services include towing, flat tire repair, lockout assistance, and coverage for multiple vehicles.
Allstate Motor Club offers a range of roadside assistance services, including emergency towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. And, members also benefit from travel discounts and trip interruption coverage.
National General Motor Club provides 24/7 roadside assistance with services such as towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, and more. Also, members can choose from different levels of coverage.
Better World Club is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional roadside assistance programs. It offers services like towing, flat tire assistance, and battery jumps. Also, members also enjoy travel discounts and other eco-friendly benefits.
AARP members can opt for roadside assistance coverage provided by Allstate. Services include towing, fuel delivery, tire changes, and lockout assistance. AARP members may also receive additional benefits.
GEICO Emergency Road Service
GEICO offers an Emergency Road Service program that provides assistance for flat tires, dead batteries, lockouts, and towing. It is available to both GEICO policyholders and non-policyholders.
OnStar is a built-in safety and security feature available in many General Motors vehicles. It offers services such as emergency roadside assistance, automatic crash response, and vehicle diagnostics.
Before choosing a roadside assistance program, it’s essential to consider factors such as coverage limits, response times, and the specific services offered. Additionally, some programs may offer additional perks, so it’s worth exploring the full range of benefits provided by each program.
Tourism Discounts
Several tourism discount programs are designed to provide travelers with savings on various aspects of their journeys, including accommodations, activities, and transportation. Here are some of the best tourism discount programs for travelers.
Student Universe
Student Universe offers exclusive travel discounts for students, including discounted flights, hotels, tours, and activities. It’s a great resource for students looking to explore the world on a budget.
ISIC (International Student Identity Card)
The ISIC card provides student discounts on a wide range of travel-related services, including flights, accommodations, and attractions. It’s recognized globally and offers benefits for students of all ages.
Hostelling International (HI) Membership
HI Membership provides access to a network of hostels worldwide at discounted rates. Travelers can enjoy budget-friendly accommodations while exploring different destinations.
AARP Travel Discounts
AARP offers travel discounts for its members, including savings on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages. And, it’s a great option for older travelers looking to explore while enjoying cost savings.
Senior Discounts (Various Programs)
Many travel-related services and businesses offer senior discounts. And, programs like AARP, senior-specific memberships, and government programs provide benefits for older travelers.
AAA Travel Discounts
AAA members can access a range of travel discounts, including savings on hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. And, AAA also provides travel planning assistance and roadside services.
Entertainment Book
Entertainment Book offers a variety of discounts, including those related to travel, accommodations, and attractions. Therefore, it provides both physical and digital versions with location-specific deals.
Government Employee Discounts
Government employees, including military personnel, often qualify for special travel discounts. Programs such as the Government Vacation Rewards program cater to government employees and military members.
Travelzoo
Travelzoo curates and publishes deals on various travel-related services, including flights, hotels, and activities. Subscribers receive weekly newsletters with handpicked travel deals.
Hotels.com Rewards
Hotels.com Rewards program allows travelers to earn free nights after a certain number of bookings. It’s a loyalty program that provides additional discounts for frequent users.
Airline Loyalty Programs
Joining airline loyalty programs can provide travelers with exclusive discounts, upgrades, and other perks. Accumulating miles can lead to free flights and other benefits.
When choosing a discount program, it’s essential to consider your travel preferences, eligibility criteria, and the specific discounts offered by each program. Additionally, be sure to review the terms and conditions to maximize the benefits available to you.
RV Park Memberships and Travel Clubs
Embarking on an RV adventure often involves staying at various RV parks along the way. To enhance your travel experience and enjoy cost savings, consider joining RV park memberships and travel clubs. Here’s a guide to some of the top memberships and clubs, complete with transition words to ensure a smooth flow.
Passport America is an excellent starting point for RV enthusiasts. And, not only does it offer a diverse network of participating campgrounds, but it also provides a 50% discount on camping fees. Moreover, the membership is cost-effective, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Transitioning to Thousand Trails, a membership-based camping pass, unlocks access to a network of campgrounds across the United States. With various membership tiers, RVers can choose a plan that aligns with their travel preferences. Additionally, the pass often includes free or discounted stays, making it a valuable investment for frequent travelers.
Good Sam Club stands out as one of the most comprehensive RV travel clubs. Transitioning to Good Sam provides members with various benefits, including discounts on campgrounds, fuel savings, and even member-only deals on RV accessories. Furthermore, the club offers roadside assistance, adding an extra layer of security to your travels.
On the journey to community-focused RVing, consider joining the Escapees RV Club. This club is not just about discounts; it fosters a sense of belonging among RVers. Transitioning to Escapees grants access to an extensive support network, mail forwarding services, and a community that shares a passion for the open road.
Transitioning to FMCA opens the door to a network dedicated to motorhome owners. This association offers exclusive benefits, including campground discounts, tire programs, and member-only events. Moreover, the sense of camaraderie within the FMCA community adds an enriching dimension to your RV lifestyle.
For RVers seeking diverse camping experiences, the transition to Resort Parks International (RPI) is worth considering. RPI facilitates access to affiliated resorts and campgrounds at discounted rates. This membership is an excellent choice for those who enjoy exploring various regions and resort-style amenities.
In conclusion, exploring the world in your RV becomes even more enjoyable and economical with the right memberships and travel clubs. Each option brings its own set of advantages, from cost savings to community engagement, providing RVers with a range of choices to enhance their on-the-road experiences.
Dry Camping/Boondocking Clubs
Dry camping and boondocking, where RV travelers camp without hookups or in remote areas, have become increasingly popular. While there may not be specific programs dedicated solely to dry camping and boondocking, there are resources and memberships that provide information, support, and sometimes access to relevant locations. Here are some of the best resources for RV travelers interested in dry camping and boondocking
Boondockers Welcome connects RV travelers with hosts who offer free overnight parking on their private property. Memberships provide access to a network of hosts across North America.
Harvest Hosts allows RVers to stay overnight at wineries, farms, breweries, and other unique locations for a small annual fee. It’s a great way to experience different places while enjoying the freedom of boondocking.
Free Campsites is a website and app that helps RVers find free camping locations, including boondocking spots. Users can search by location and read reviews from other campers.
Campendium is a comprehensive platform that provides information on campgrounds, RV parks, and boondocking sites. It includes user reviews, photos, and details about amenities.
BLM land and National Forests often allow dispersed camping, a form of boondocking. RV travelers can check specific areas’ regulations for details on where and how to camp.
iOverlander is an app that offers a database of places for camping, including free and boondocking sites. It’s community-driven, with users contributing information and reviews.
Escapees RV Club is a community for RVers that provides resources, support, and information on various aspects of RV living, including boondocking.
RVillage is a social network for RVers, and it includes a map feature where users can find and share information about campsites, including boondocking locations.
Some national parks and wildlife refuges offer boondocking opportunities. Check the specific regulations and availability for each location.
BLM LTVA (Long-Term Visitor Area) Permits
In certain BLM areas, travelers can purchase LTVA permits for extended stays. These permits often provide amenities like dump stations and water.
Always check the rules and regulations of the specific area you plan to visit for boondocking, and respect the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Each of the mentioned resources provides valuable information to help RV travelers make the most of their dry camping and boondocking experiences.
So, what's the catch?
- Some campgrounds have blackout dates of no discounts of any kind during high travel times such as Memorial Day – Labor Day
- Limited to campgrounds that are affiliated with membership network
- Roadside assistance is not available in all areas
There are many other things to consider after researching the best road travel discounts for your trip. Continue planning your next big adventure by referencing the road trip planning checklist below! See you on the next leg of our journey, renting an RV!
