Camping World has quietly rolled out a new way to sell RVs, and it runs through a name most shoppers already trust: Costco. The Camping World Costco RV program works much like Costco’s long-standing car-buying program. Costco members browse eligible new RVs online, get routed into Camping World’s inventory, and receive a prearranged, no-haggle price tied to a specific unit and dealer.
How the Camping World Costco RV program is pitched to buyers
On the surface, that sounds appealing. No drawn-out negotiations. No wondering whether the salesperson across the desk just cut a better deal for the last buyer. The price is set before the conversation even starts.
But RVers who’ve spent time on dealership lots know that simplicity and savings don’t always travel together.
Costco shoppers aren’t buying entry-level RVs
Camping World says early results from the Costco program skew toward higher-priced rigs, particularly fifth wheels and motorhomes. In plain terms, Costco members coming through the program aren’t chasing starter campers. They’re shopping higher up the ladder.
That distinction matters. Buyers at the top end are often less price-sensitive, and on larger-ticket rigs there’s more room for a deal to look generous while still working well for the seller.
The price is based on what Camping World is already advertising
Under the Camping World Costco RV program, pricing starts with Camping World’s “lowest advertised price,” with an additional Costco member discount layered on top. Buyers register through Costco’s portal, receive a savings certificate tied to a specific RV and dealership, and present it at the point of sale to lock in that number.
Camping World assigns designated staff to handle these buyers, pitching a concierge-style process intended to feel lower-stress and more predictable than a traditional RV negotiation.
“Lowest advertised” is not the same as lowest possible
A no-haggle price may be predictable — but it isn’t always the lowest price an RVer can find.
This is where experienced RV buyers tend to pause.
“Lowest advertised price” doesn’t include the quiet discounts that often appear after negotiation—especially on aging inventory, slow-moving floorplans, or units that have overstayed their welcome on the lot. For some shoppers, skipping the haggling is worth the tradeoff. For others, the real savings still come from asking uncomfortable questions and being willing to walk.
Preset pricing can narrow the bargaining range for everyone
There’s also a broader ripple effect to consider. As more RVs sell through preset pricing programs, negotiation ranges can quietly tighten. Extreme markdowns become less common, and prices begin anchoring higher—particularly on popular models. Deals don’t disappear. But the floor can creep upward, especially when enough buyers signal they’re comfortable paying a preset price labeled as “fair.”
Independent dealers feel the pressure—but still have leverage
Most independent dealers can’t match Costco’s national funnel or its built-in brand trust. That gives Camping World an edge with first-time buyers who want a transaction that feels safe and predictable.
At the same time, independents often keep an advantage where it matters most to seasoned RVers: true bottom-line pricing, flexibility on trade-ins, and less pressure to bundle warranties, fees, and add-ons after the handshake.
The takeaway for Camping World–cautious RVers
Like many preset pricing efforts, the Camping World Costco RV program offers certainty—but not always the lowest possible deal.
The partnership doesn’t change Camping World’s approach to selling RVs—it just presents it in a more controlled way. That may appeal to buyers who want certainty. For RVers who already shop carefully, it doesn’t remove the need to keep asking questions.
Treat a Costco price as a reference point, not the final word—and keep comparing before you sign.
Costco RV buyers should ask for a full out-the-door price in writing—including fees, add-ons, and warranty pricing—before assuming the preset number is the final deal.
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RVT1244b
Your article starts off by saying most customers already trust Costco. Why are you getting involved with Camping World where a lot of RV owners don’t trust Camping World. There is a lot of negative feelings toward Camping World.
And that feeling may, and will, trickle down to Costco.
Just look at what Camping World (Lemonis) did to Gander Mountain. Changed the name to Gander Out doors, then began closing them.
I can’t believe Costco’s big wheels agreed to this.
Or, is this just another front for Camping World to use the Costco name.
Much like Amazon. Private parties advertise and sell on Amazon, but in the end you are dealing with the private party.
Amazon makes money and the seller gets more exposure.
Very surprised that Costco would associate its’ name with CW as it could really taint their reputation. CW is known for bad business practices, service, and customer support. Apparently, someone dropped the ball on this partnership in Costco.
My thoughts exactly! I can’t believe a big trusted brand name like Costco did not do a thorough due diligence on the likes of CW! Any simple internet search would show enough CW bad will to choke a horse! Or…. Costco just really doesn’t care about their customers the way some might think they do.
It will be interesting to see how Costco’s return and quality guarantee policy works when CW has such a lousy service record. Like others, I don’t see this as a viable long term partnership.
Why would Costco lower it’s name to the Camping World level of distrust that they created themselves. Run, hide, put a lock on your wallet when you hear the name Camping World.
Camping World? I do not find them the cheapest or most honest. I have had work done there only to have to redo it myself. Camping World is not the most trusted in the industry. Costco should look at other options for RV of its members
I would go buy a tent at Walmart rather than spend a dime at Camping World.
Seems to me those of us with Costco memberships should be writing emails to top leadership referencing the near total distrust of CW. I’ll be doing this within the next few days.
Well now I have a reason not to visit Costco.
Costco! Do not sully your Reputation with this Sub-Standard Organization.
Costco will lose more customers than they gain.
Neat! A new finger in the pie of an industry full of questionable quality and buyer support, and with the dealer network with the worst reputation of all. Oh, there are some “newbies” that will buy an RV through Costco, and then spend at least the first summer of ownership wondering if the dealer has found the water leak that caused the slide to stick open after the AC fell through the roof, etc.
Really shocked Costco would affiliate themselves with CW. I won’t stop shopping at Costco, but will NEVER buy another RV from CW. They have the worst customer service anywhere
Wonder if Lemonis’s exit as CEO will improve things at CW.
Costco quality service could help with warranty and service issues for RVERs! Months long service visits are not okay with anyone! Wishing us luck!
Thank you for this news, Russ and Tina! Interesting how this is portrayed as a less-stressful way of buying. Our solitary experience inside a Costco left us extremely uncomfortable from the crush of people inside the store. As we left, we questioned the person at the entrance and were dismayed to learn that we’d experienced a “slow day.” We have no plans to return. 😉 But neither have we plans to ever buy an RV from Camping World. Have a great week and safe travels!
Hard to believe that Costco would get in bed with a sleezy organization like Camping World.
New Costco CEO recently replacing the founder. Guess they want to make their mark on the organization with new vendor associations. This choice will ultimately prove to be a bad choice for Costco and a homerun for Camping World!
Probably be like a lot of items offered for sale by Costco.
A ONE TIME BUY!
Say it ain’t so Costco. There must not be a seasoned RVer among the board of directors. As far as mistakes go, this is a doozy.
I was wondering about the Costco return policy and money back policy, as well as where is the warranty accepted.
Costco is losing respect. I’m guessing this will not last long.