Recently there was long thread about the BCA. I can now post possible answers to some of the questions, such as "Why is the BCA still raising membership prices when there is a significant amount still left in its coffers?"
For trips records and quick shots, a cheap point and shoot is definitely the way to go plus its less to carry and less faff. But there are some shots I've found that are worth the extra effort of going back with the big bodies and lenses.