Costco is known for having great deals, top-notch products, and various items to purchase in one place. As one of the largest membership warehouses, it caters to consumers and businesses alike. However, there is one area that is sometimes overlooked—Costco Travel.
Costco Travel: 5 Things You Need To Know
Here are five things you should know about Costco Travel and why you might look at your wholesale retailer membership before booking your next getaway.
1. You Can Book Hotels, Rental Cars, Flights, Cruises, Vacation Packages, And Even Theme Parks Through Costco Travel.
One of the many perks of using Costco Travel is convenience. Travelers can turn to the service to book a variety of ways to travel. This includes the ability to combine travel services and see the prices, including taxes and fees. Members can book the following travel itineraries:
- Vacation packages, including departure airport, to domestic and international destinations
- Hotel + flight
- Flight + hotel + car rental
- Car rental + hotel
- Hotel only
- Cruises, including domestic and international tours
Unless specifically mentioned, flights are not included in the price of packages. However, flights from most major cities around the United States can be added to vacation and cruise packages. Additionally, not all airlines are part of Costco Travel, so it is good to compare costs if you don’t see an airline you would typically use.
If you want to book a last-minute cruise, look to Costco Travel. There are several cruise line partners, so there are plenty of options for visiting multiple destinations. Travelers can also get a digital shop card for their cruise travel.
Universal and Disney theme parks and specialty travel are also available through Costco Travel. The Costco Travel team can also help you take the ‘Vacation of a Lifetime.’
2. Costco Travel Offers Specialty Vacation Options.
Specialty travel includes African safaris and guided vacations. Guided vacations cater to different lifestyles, including those looking to connect with locals, those who have a bit more money to spend and are willing to explore a destination with a small group, and even 18-35-year-olds who want to save some money and can travel together.
These options are curated and offer unique perspectives in destinations around the globe. These options plan your journey for you while allowing you to see multiple places, removing the stress of coordinating, researching, and making arrangements for your destination.
3. Kirkland Signature Labeled Vacations Are Available With Exclusives For Costco Members.
Frequent Costco shoppers likely know that products with the ‘Kirkland Signature’ label will be comparable to some of the top products in that department. But many folks may not know there is also Kirkland Signature Travel, which can provide value and quality for Costco members booking vacations and cruises.
Traveling with the Kirkland Signature brand will get you extras, which may include special rates, experiences such as dining or spa exclusives, and shipboard credits ranging from $25 to $100 or more per person. These exclusives vary, so it may be worth shopping around if you are looking for ideas that fit your travel goals.
4. Use Costco Travel To Upgrade Your Rental Vehicle And Save Money On Gas.
Another perk of using Costco Travel is including an extra driver for free when renting a car (only available at select locations). Depending on the rental company, the added driver perk can also be applied outside of the United States.
Additionally, drivers can book their vehicle early to secure their price and pay later when they pick it up. Renting through Costco Travel may also get you an automatic vehicle upgrade. There are also no cancellation fees to worry about.
Plus, Costco generally has lower gas prices, which can save a bit of money if you are near a Costco with gas stations.
5. Benefits Include Travel Insurance, Availability Of Travel Specialists, And Limited Time Deals.
Booking through Costco Travel also comes with travel insurance benefits, which include baggage coverage (including baggage delay), trip cancellation, and emergency benefits. You can also get a quote if you want to shop around for insurance.
Travel specialists are also available to help if you want assistance planning your trip or have any questions. Specialists are also available via phone if there is an emergency or you need to cancel.
Limited-time deals are also available for members. Deals can include resort credits, waived fees, and complimentary daily meals. These deals are available for a variety of destinations as well. Signing up for Costco emails and checking the deals page are recommended to get the most value.
Bonus: You Can Earn Up To 5% Back.
One other perk worth mentioning is the ability for members to earn up to 5% back on their travels. Costco Executive Members earn 2% back on their Costco Travel purchases, along with added perks that come with some of the travel bookings.
Additionally, Executive Members with a Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi can earn 3% back on select travel on top of the 2% back they earn. And since the card is a Visa Card, it will be accepted domestically and internationally.
Summary
Costco Travel can save members time and money when booking their next excursion. However, note that one must have an active Costco membership to use the service. While Costco Travel can save time and energy, making an extra effort to compare prices can get you the best deals. Offers may be combined with Costco Travel to get the most value.
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