7 Costco Travel Perks Most Members Don’t Know About
Written by
Dawn Allcot
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
When people hear the word Costco, they might think about low-cost fuel, $1.50 hot dog and soda combos in the food court, or the famous rotisserie chicken.
But smart members also think of Costco for travel savings and perks. Booking through the Costco Travel portal is typically cheaper than using other third-party travel websites or even booking direct.
“Sometimes, certain airlines will run a flash sale that can beat Costco’s prices,” wrote Alex Cornici at TheTraveler.org. However, when you factor in perks, free upgrades, cashback rewards and other benefits, Costco Travel often comes out ahead, anyway.
Here are some benefits to look for when you book through Costco Travel.
Costco Shop Cards
Book a select cruise, vacation package or resort stay and receive a Costco Shop Card. Use it for Costco deals like new luggage or travel electronics before your trip. Or save it until you return home and re-stock your fridge using free money.
Free Additional Driver on Rental Car Bookings
Vacationers often want to share driving duties, but many car rental agencies charge a fee to add a driver. When you book through Costco Travel, Avis, Budget, Alamo and Enterprise waive the additional driver fee in the U.S. and Canada.
Waived Resort Fees
Many Costco Travel packages, like this stay in San Antonio’s Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, waive the daily resort fee to save you even more money.
Shipboard or Resort Credits
Your San Antonio vacation also includes a $50 resort credit per room that you can use for spa treatments, meals and other expenses. Many cruises offer shipboard credits, too, helping to make your trip even more affordable.
Free Upgrades
Travelers who book through Costco often receive other perks, too. Depending on your destination, these may include:
- Lightning Lane passes for Disney vacations
- Complimentary wine
- Free breakfast
- Free parking
These perks can enhance your vacation and help you save money. Be sure to review your options since some of these benefits are only available for Executive members.
Cash Back for Executive Members and Citi Costco Anywhere Visa Cardholders
Executive members earn 2% cash back on every purchase, including travel purchases, up to $1,250 in rewards annually. You can stack that cash back with an extra 3% by using a Costco Anywhere Visa card to pay.
No Added Cancellation Fees
If you have to cancel your trip, Costco refunds the money to your account within seven to 10 business days, with no added cancellation fees. Read the fine print on your invoice, though, since you may be subject to fees from the hotel, airline or vendor, according to the Costco Travel website.
Keep in mind, you won’t find every perk available for every trip package. Focus on what matters most to you, whether that’s an upgraded experience or cash back, to book the trip of your dreams that fits your budget.
More From GOBankingRates
