Travel Clubs: Are They Worth The Money?

Travel clubs are a type of vacation club, which is a timeshare in all but name. They offer members access to multiple properties in multiple locations, often with additional perks and discounts. But are they a good deal?

Well, that depends. Some people argue that travel clubs are a scam, luring people in with the promise of dream vacations at bargain prices, only to be met with restricted travel dates, hidden fees, and limited destinations. Others say they're a great way to save money on luxury getaways, offering flexibility, spacious accommodations, and exclusive experiences.

So, are travel clubs a good deal? The answer may lie somewhere in between. While they can provide value for frequent travellers who prioritise luxury and convenience, it's important to do your research, understand the fine print, and be aware of the potential risks and restrictions.

Travel clubs vs vacation clubs

Travel clubs and vacation clubs are both members-only clubs that offer discounted travel options. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Vacation clubs are a type of timeshare, where members pay to use multiple properties in multiple locations. They are typically marketed towards frequent vacationers and provide access to accommodations, resorts, condos, and hotel rooms for a week each year. Vacation clubs usually have membership tiers or levels, with benefits and discounts offered in the form of points. The more points a member has, the better the benefits. Vacation clubs often come with a ton of fees and restrictions, and it can be difficult to get out of a membership.

Travel clubs, on the other hand, offer discounts, perks, and benefits to members for a range of travel-related services, including accommodations, airfare, car rentals, and travel packages. Travel clubs can be either free or paid memberships, and they may be affiliated with specific travel providers or offer discounts from a variety of providers. While travel clubs may provide access to more affordable travel options, it's important to carefully evaluate the costs and benefits before joining as they may not always offer significant savings.

When comparing travel clubs vs vacation clubs, it's important to consider your travel habits and preferences. If you are a frequent traveller who values flexibility and variety in destinations, a travel club may be a better option. If you prefer to have access to more luxurious accommodations and are willing to pay higher fees, a vacation club may be more suitable. Additionally, consider the financial implications of each option, as both travel clubs and vacation clubs can come with significant costs and restrictions.

Overall, both travel clubs and vacation clubs can offer benefits to globetrotters, but it's important to do your research and carefully evaluate the pros and cons before committing to any membership.

The perks of travel clubs

Travel clubs are a type of vacation club that offer exclusive membership benefits for travel. They usually provide members with discounts on travel services such as flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities. Here are some of the perks of joining a travel club:

Flexibility and Variety:

Travel clubs offer members the flexibility to choose from a wide range of destinations and accommodations. Whether you're looking for a beachfront resort, a mountain retreat, or a city getaway, travel clubs provide a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Exclusive Deals and Discounts:

One of the main advantages of travel clubs is the potential for significant savings. Members often gain access to exclusive flight deals, discounted hotel rates, and special offers on travel packages. This includes savings on luxury accommodations, making high-end travel more accessible.

Convenience and Planning Assistance:

Travel clubs can make the booking process more convenient by offering centralised platforms or customer service teams that help members compare prices and make reservations. Some clubs even provide dedicated travel assistants or concierges who plan and book trips on behalf of the members.

Additional Perks and Benefits:

Travel clubs often partner with other companies to offer a range of additional benefits. This may include access to airport lounges, priority pass memberships, expedited security screenings, exclusive events and experiences, room upgrades, and various other travel-related perks.

Community and Social Aspects:

Travel clubs can foster a sense of community among like-minded individuals who share a passion for travel. They may organise social events, members-only experiences, or provide platforms for members to connect and share travel recommendations.

Personalised Services:

Vacation clubs often prioritise member satisfaction and strive to provide personalised services. This includes tailored travel planning assistance, curated itineraries, and dedicated support throughout the trip to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

While travel clubs offer these benefits, it is important to carefully consider the costs, restrictions, and terms and conditions before joining. There may be annual fees, membership tiers, and blackout dates to take into account. Additionally, it is worth comparing different travel clubs to find the one that best aligns with your travel preferences and budget.

The drawbacks of travel clubs

While travel clubs can be a great way to save money on flights, hotels, and other travel expenses, there are several drawbacks to consider before signing up. Here are some of the main disadvantages of travel clubs:

High Membership Fees

The cost of joining a travel club can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year. For those who don't travel frequently, this expense may not be justifiable. It is important to weigh the cost of membership against how often you will be able to take advantage of the club's benefits.

Restrictions on Usage

Some travel clubs restrict how often you can use your membership. For example, there may be a limit on the number of trips you can book per year, or you may have to wait a certain amount of time between trips. These restrictions can be frustrating for frequent travelers.

Limited Travel Options

Travel clubs typically have a limited selection of travel options. This can be a problem if you are looking for a specific type of trip or have particular travel requirements. You may find that the club's offerings do not align with your travel preferences or needs.

Hidden Fees

In addition to the annual membership fee, some travel clubs charge hidden fees for things like cancellation or changing a reservation. These extra costs can add up quickly and significantly increase the overall expense of the club. It is important to read the fine print before signing up to understand all the potential fees involved.

Difficult to Cancel

Travel clubs, like timeshares, can be extremely difficult to cancel or get out of once you have joined. This can be a major problem if you decide the club is not for you or your travel needs change. Be sure to understand the cancellation policy before signing up.

Blackout Dates and Restricted Travel Dates

Even if you have purchased a membership, you may find that you are limited in when you can travel due to blackout dates or the need to work around other members' schedules. This restriction can be frustrating if you have specific dates in mind for your trip or need to travel during peak seasons.

Limited Guest Policies

Some travel clubs have strict policies regarding guests and who is allowed to accompany you on trips. In some cases, only the person who paid for the membership is granted membership privileges, meaning you may not be able to bring family or friends along on certain trips.

While travel clubs can offer significant benefits, it is important to carefully consider the drawbacks and potential hidden costs before signing up. Do your research, read reviews, and understand the fine print to make an informed decision about whether a travel club is right for you.

The cost of travel clubs

The cost of joining a travel club varies depending on the company and the type of membership. Some travel clubs charge a one-time upfront cost ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, followed by annual membership fees. Others have a multi-tier membership structure with varying initiation fees and annual dues. For example, Wheels Up, a private jet charter membership, offers three membership options: Connect, Core, and Business. The Connect membership has a $2,995 initiation fee and $2,495 annual dues starting in the second year, while the Core membership costs $17,500 upfront and $8,500 annually from the second year onwards.

Some travel clubs, like Inspirato, offer subscription-based services with monthly fees. Inspirato Club, for instance, charges $600 per month plus a $600 enrollment fee, and members pay nightly room rates. Inspirato also has a flat-rate monthly membership called Inspirato Pass, which includes all hotel stays.

Other travel clubs, like Scott's Cheap Flights, offer different membership tiers, including a free option. The Premium membership costs $49 per year, while the Elite membership is $199 per year.

It is important to note that travel clubs often come with additional costs and fees beyond the initial purchase price and annual dues. These can include point redemption fees, closing costs, and maintenance fees, which can add up to a significant amount.

When considering the cost of travel clubs, it is also worth mentioning that some clubs cater specifically to the ultra-wealthy and charge a hefty fee per day for trips on top of the cost of membership. For example, Exclusive Resorts, which has a portfolio of over 400 vacation homes, charges an additional fee per day for trips.

In summary, the cost of travel clubs can vary widely, from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the company, the type of membership, and the additional fees involved. It is essential to carefully review the terms and conditions, including all associated costs, before joining any travel club.

Travel insurance for club members

When it comes to travel insurance for club members, there are a few options and factors to consider. Firstly, let's differentiate between travel clubs and membership clubs.

Travel Clubs

Travel clubs are a type of vacation club where members vacation together and benefit from group rates. While travel clubs can offer discounted travel options, they also come with restrictions and fees, including initial purchase prices, point redemption fees, and maintenance fees. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions before joining a travel club to understand the associated costs and benefits.

Membership Clubs

Membership clubs, such as AAA or AARP, offer various benefits to their members, including travel insurance. The travel insurance benefits included with membership clubs can vary, but they typically provide basic coverage for trip cancellation, emergency medical assistance, and other travel-related incidents.

Travel Insurance Plans

When considering travel insurance, it is important to review the specific coverage and benefits offered. Here are some key points to consider:

• Coverage Amounts and Limitations: Understand the coverage limits, including any deductibles or maximum payouts.
• Health Insurance: Ensure that the travel insurance plan provides adequate health insurance coverage, especially for international travel.
• Cancellation Coverage: Look for travel insurance plans that include trip cancellation coverage in case you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected illnesses, accidents, or other covered reasons.
• Additional Benefits: Some travel insurance plans offer additional benefits like rental car protection, theme park protection, or enhanced insurance for longer or international trips.
• Family Coverage: If you are travelling with family, ensure that the travel insurance plan covers all family members and dependents.
• Cost and Value: Evaluate the cost of the travel insurance plan and weigh it against the benefits and coverage provided.

Recommended Insurance Coverage for Clubs

When travelling with a club or group, it is recommended to have the following types of insurance coverage:

• International Health Insurance: This provides coverage for medical expenses, hospital costs, and medically necessary repatriation in case of illness or injury while abroad.
• Travel Cancellation Insurance: This covers the financial costs associated with cancelling a trip due to unexpected illnesses, accidents, or other covered reasons.
• Property Package: This includes legal expenses insurance and baggage insurance to protect against loss or damage of personal belongings during travel.
• Travel Liability Insurance: This type of insurance covers personal injury, property damage, or financial loss caused by club members during the trip.
• Travel Accident Insurance: This provides financial compensation and support in the event of accidents, disability, or accidental death during the trip.
• Legal Expenses Insurance: Legal assistance and coverage for legal proceedings or disputes that may arise during international travel.

In conclusion, when considering travel insurance for club members, it is important to review the specific benefits and coverage offered by travel clubs or membership clubs. Additionally, tailored insurance coverage for clubs and groups can provide comprehensive protection for unexpected events and incidents during travel.

Frequently asked questions