Community Forums

bigskymt · 11-01-2013, 05:14 PM

We've been FMCA Members for several years but as they continue to drop perks we're wondering if the membership fee is worth the price to "own" a number on an oval and get a discount on CoachNet.
Good Sam seems a likely alternative but I've noticed a lot of negative posts toward them and the barrage of mail they send.
We'd appreciate all comments from users.

traveler of california · 11-01-2013, 05:46 PM

What benefits have been dropped? I find the membership is more than benefits as FMCA is a voice for those of us that love the RV lifestyle. Great magazine, many local clubs, fun national conventions, etc.

Nick

Medico · 11-01-2013, 06:00 PM

One benefit we used was a 2 night stay for free at the FMCA campground at their Cincinnati Mail Forwarding site. This 15 site campground has full hookups with 50 amp service. It can be used 2 days per month for free for FMCA members. This one thing more than paid for our membership. There are also discounts on Michelin tires for those needing tires. These are in addition to the aforementioned CoachNet discount.

We are also members of Good Sam and Escapees. All have their benefits.

Mr_D · 11-01-2013, 06:10 PM

We just renewed for 5 years. Paid for 4 and got the 5th free.
The magazine alone is worth the cost, then there's the tire program too. The did drop the medical evac though, which we really liked but never used.

Ray,IN · 11-01-2013, 08:21 PM

We've been thinking about joining FMCA, even tried to attend a regional rally once but was denied, saying we had to join first. All we wanted to do is learn more about the group before joining, guess that's out.
I suppose, just like FMCA, the Good Sam organization is misunderstood by some, others don't like it because it is the largest RVing/camping organization in the world. All junk mail from them may be stopped by just clicking a link on their website, that's not a problem.
The FMCA Michelin tire program has a disclaimer on the webpage stating, one should check with tire retailers first because sometimes they will sell tires cheaper than the FMCA pricing.

dfunde01 · 11-01-2013, 09:18 PM

It's only $50 for a one year membership. No long term contract. No financial obligation. Give it a try. Good Sam has become a shill for Camping World.

Dave

Forest Grump · 11-01-2013, 09:27 PM

Yuch!

Fred1609 · 11-01-2013, 09:40 PM

But with my GS membership and ERS I get money off at CW which helps in emergencies. I won't run around the country without ERS during holidays. I think everyone's needs are different and we should look at our services with a critical eye from time to time.

Fred and Bonnie · 11-02-2013, 12:56 PM

I joined FMCA as it was required to belong to owners clubs, clubs have degraded and when the renewal is due, I will drop. I don't like large gatherings, Good Sam gives campground discounts, I get a good price for Coach Net without FMCA. The FMCA magazine is nice, if you like $3000,000.00 units, same info is available on the web. Just don't see the benefits.

Fred

Mr_D · 11-02-2013, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ray,IN

We've been thinking about joining FMCA, even tried to attend a regional rally once but was denied, saying we had to join first. All we wanted to do is learn more about the group before joining, guess that's out.
I suppose, just like FMCA, the Good Sam organization is misunderstood by some, others don't like it because it is the largest RVing/camping organization in the world. All junk mail from them may be stopped by just clicking a link on their website, that's not a problem.
The FMCA Michelin tire program has a disclaimer on the webpage stating, one should check with tire retailers first because sometimes they will sell tires cheaper than the FMCA pricing.

They now offer day passes at the rallys. Good for the exhibits but not seminars and entertainment. How long ago did you try to go?
And every good group has it's detractors that will do whatever it pleases them to run someone/something down.
So, as with most stuff on the Internet: trust but verify!

Steve Ownby · 11-02-2013, 01:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr_D

They now offer day passes at the rallys. Good for the exhibits but not seminars and entertainment. How long ago did you try to go? And every good group has it's detractors that will do whatever it pleases them to run someone/something down. So, as with most stuff on the Internet: trust but verify!

If we only join organizations for what ever perks accrue to us as members then we may not be looking at the total picture. As a full time motor-homer I look to organizations like FMCA, Good Sam, Escapees, as a collective voice as governments at every level get more powerful and over reaching.

Cat320 · 11-02-2013, 06:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr_D

...The magazine alone is worth the cost, then there's the tire program too...

Agree.

Chow5656 · 11-02-2013, 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cat320

Agree.

X'S 2

Medico · 11-02-2013, 06:42 PM

Everything in life has it's pros and cons, but it seems at times the cons are more vocal. These MH organizations are just the same. There are a relatively few detractors that are very vocal and a majority of happy members that say nothing.

You get discounts on products and services. Members can use their campground for free with full hook ups and you get the louder voice in governmental discussions that only a large organization such as FMCA or Good Sam can provide. For the cost of the annual membership, these organizations are cheap.