5 Little-Known Perks of Costco Travel

Many shoppers invest in a Costco membership to get a discount on everyday household essentials and groceries. But did you know that a Costco membership can also unlock travel discounts? If you enjoy traveling and like getting a good deal, you can save on your next vacation with Costco Travel. I'll outline some little-known perks you can enjoy when using Costco Travel to help you get the most out of your warehouse club membership.

1. Score last-minute travel deals

Typically, travelers are encouraged to book their travel plans in advance for the best price, but if you're a Costco member, you can save money on last-minute travel plans. Costco advertises limited-time travel deals to its members through Costco Travel. Don't miss these discount opportunities if you're craving a last-minute getaway and have a flexible schedule.

2. Some car rentals waive fees for a second driver

Some travel destinations have minimal public transportation options, so having a car is ideal. If you need to reserve a rental car for your next trip, you may want to book through Costco Travel. One perk you may not know about is adding a second driver to your coverage for free.

When booking cars through Alamo or Enterprise, the second driver fee is waived for rentals in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, and Spain. When booking a rental through Avis or Budget, the second driver fee is waived for car rentals in the United States.

The second driver must meet all renter requirements, be at the rental counter along with the primary renter, present a valid driver's license, and present a major credit card in their name at the time of rental. This little-known Costco Travel benefit can help you keep more money in your checking account while helping protect a second driver during your trip.

3. Some Costco travel packages include freebies

Costco Travel lets you easily book hotels, rental cars, and cruises. But you can also buy vacation packages (which may include flights) for a simple, stress-free booking experience. When comparing travel package options, be sure to review all of the details carefully.

Many Costco Travel packages include extra freebies like dining credits, resort credits, or room upgrades. These additional freebies make your Costco membership more valuable and could free up money in your vacation budget for other travel expenses like food and activities.

4. Payment plans may be available

When booking through Costco Travel, you can pay for your trip over time. At checkout, you can pay the entire amount due or, if available, make a deposit and pay the remaining balance before the final payment date listed. You can pay the remaining balance online or by phone.

If you prefer to set up scheduled recurring monthly payments, you can contact Costco Travel to do so. Another option is to make one-time payments at your convenience through your online account. However, you may need to pay in full at checkout when booking a trip that starts soon. Don't forget to use a cash back credit card for payment so you earn rewards.

5. Travel purchases count toward 2% rewards earnings

Costco offers two memberships: The basic membership, called Gold Star, costs $60 annually. The more expensive membership, Executive, costs $120 annually. Executive members earn 2% back on their Costco spending and can earn up to $1,000 each year. As an Executive member, your pre-tax Costco Travel spending counts toward your annual 2% earnings, so now you have even more motivation to book that trip you've been wanting to take.

Put your Costco membership benefits to use

The next time you plan a vacation, remember to consider using Costco Travel. Of course, comparing prices to see if you can find a better deal elsewhere is never a bad idea. But you may save money on travel costs by booking vacations through Costco Travel. The more Costco membership perks you use, the more value you get out of your membership and the more money you save.

For additional ways to save money, check out our free personal finance resources.