are aarp travel discounts worth it

How to use your AARP discount on travel

When AARP — the 38-million-strong organization for people over 50 — starts contacting you about becoming a member, you may freak out. My first reaction was, "I am not that old."

But after I got over my initial consternation, I realized that becoming an AARP member might open up a treasure trove of travel savings for me, including some that are always available and others that come and go periodically.

And it's a small investment: Either pay $12 a year for a multiyear membership with automatic renewal or $16 if you rejoin annually.

"One of the strengths of the AARP program is it's always on and always available," said Matthew Phillips, director of travel for the membership organization. "Another strength is there's the AARP discount and AARP member rate, and you also get those awards points with the programs you are enrolled in."

Members have access to discounts and member-specific deals at more than 10 hotel chains and their brands. There are also exclusive AARP deals for Avis Budget Group car rentals and through a cobranded AARP Travel Center powered by the Expedia portal.

Here are all the ways that you can use AARP discounts on travel, including a few you might not know about.

AARP travel deals

Hotel stays.

Hotel savings for AARP members are between 5% and 10% off the best available rate. Some hotels offer additional perks, too, such as a late checkout at 2 p.m., when available. The ongoing travel discounts are clearly spelled out on the AARP travel benefits website .

Members can click through to the AARP Expedia booking portal or link directly to the booking sites of select providers.

With an AARP membership, you can score discounts for brands in the portfolios of companies such as Hilton and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts . Wyndham, for example, offers up to 10% off, plus a late checkout when available. When you click on the AARP rate during the booking process, you should be able to see the terms, conditions and benefits.

The savings are 5% or more off stays at Best Western Hotels & Resorts and up to 10% off Choice Hotels , whether booked through the AARP Expedia portal or directly with the brands. AARP members also save 10% on stays with budget brands Motel 6 and Red Roof Inn.

At some point during the booking process, you may be asked for your AARP membership number. In some cases, you will need to show your membership card at check-in at the hotel.

Airline tickets

This may come as a surprise, but AARP has a long-standing relationship with British Airways .

The deal is for $65 off World Traveller (standard economy) and World Traveller Plus (premium economy) fares, as well as $200 off Club World (business class) fares. The discount does not apply to basic economy fares.

The savings offer applies to round-trip transatlantic tickets purchased online. Connections to more than 130 destinations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa are available.

With the offer, you can collect British Airways Executive Club Avios based on the fare booked.

Car rentals

AARP's car rental partnership with Avis and Budget gives members discounts of up to 30% on base-rate rentals when you pay in advance. Other perks from the Avis and Budget brands include an upgrade on a booking for a compact through full-size car, based on availability, and you can add an additional driver at no cost. There's also a 5%-off deal on Payless rentals.

As with hotels, you may need to show your membership card at the car rental counter.

Other AARP deals

Through the Expedia portal, AARP members booking cruises have access to whatever sale fares are being offered, plus an onboard spending credit of up to $100 you can use for drinks, massages or other purchases on the ship, according to Phillips. Featured cruise companies include Princess Cruises and Holland America Line .

AARP members booking vacation packages with flights and hotels or rental cars on the Expedia portal receive the bonus of a $50 prepaid Visa card.

Three escorted and guided tour companies — Collette, Grand European Travel and Vacations By Rail — also offer discounts to AARP members.

Additionally, there's a discount on airport parking — 12% with ParkRideFly — available at nearly 40 airports throughout the U.S. Popular locations include New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW).

Exclusive AARP offers

In addition to the anytime deals, there are other targeted sales of travel products. For example, if a car rental company is having a sale open to the general public on SUVs, there may be an added offer exclusive to AARP members.

Plus, AARP members receive the organization's magazine and printed bulletin, both of which include some travel content, and can sign up for various newsletters like "Hot Deals," which has limited-time offers in a number of areas, such as dining and insurance products — and sometimes travel.

How to become an AARP member

While AARP is focused on people over 50, there is no minimum age to join. Anyone of any age can take advantage of the travel offers and the discounts on a lot of other products.

AARP provides access to 200-plus benefits, according to the company. While most are available to any member, products that are age-restricted by vendors, such as certain insurance products, are only available to members who are at least 50 years old.

A catch for anyone younger than 50 is that everything AARP does is geared and heavily marketed toward those age 50 and up. As such, you'll get pitches that may be irrelevant to your age group.

If you decide to enroll, it's fast and easy to sign up on the AARP website .

Bottom line

Is an AARP membership worth It?

The low cost of joining AARP makes it a good bet for all ages, even if you only take advantage of the travel discounts. You'll get an immediate return on your $16 membership investment with just one car rental or hotel stay.

In addition to multiple travel benefits, including hotel, car rental and airline discounts, you can take advantage of dining discounts at over a half-dozen brands — why not save 10% off your oysters, steak and truffle fries at McCormick & Schmick's?

Ultimately, for a small annual investment, your wallet will thank you.

Ready to take the plunge? Join AARP for free .

Related reading:

• 11 common rental car mistakes — and how to avoid them
• How to save on cruises with AARP Travel
• Got an AARP card? You now can get a lucrative perk when booking a Holland America cruise
• Barclays revamps and launches new AARP cards for all applicants
• Valuable travel discounts and deals for college students and young adults

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Is an AARP Membership Worth It for Travelers? [Best Benefits]

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What is AARP?

Who is eligible for an aarp membership, general travel, rental cars, entertainment, final thoughts.

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A membership with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is often overlooked as a great resource for travel discounts and benefits. In fact, an AARP membership can provide members with big savings across a wide variety of travel categories.

If you’re like most people, you’re probably thinking that, since you aren’t retired, you aren’t eligible for an AARP membership and the travel benefits that come with it. Well, that’s where you’re mistaken!

In this post we breakdown how you, too, can be eligible for an AARP membership, and the travel savings that come along with it.

AARP was founded in 1958 with the mission to “empower people to choose how they live as they age.” It is an influential lobbying group in the U.S. focusing largely on issues affecting the elderly. AARP sells paid memberships and markets insurance products and other services to its members.

Their flagship membership program provides dozens of discounts and perks and has attracted over 38 million members as of 2018.

Many people are under the impression that only retired people, or the elderly, are eligible for an AARP membership — but this is simply not true.

AARP used to offer 2 types of memberships: the standard membership for those who were 50 and older, and associate memberships for those who had not yet reached the age of 50.

Now, AARP offers just 1 membership option , and regardless if you’ve reached age 50 or not, you can join, too! Better yet, AARP memberships are just $16 a year ($12 if you opt for the auto-renew plan), and you can add a spouse or partner for free.

Bottom Line:  Many people are under the impression that they have to be over the age of 50 to join the AARP program, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Everyone is eligible for an AARP membership, no matter what your age is. 

AARP Travel Benefits

So now that you know you’re eligible for an AARP membership, does that mean you should automatically sign up? Are the travel benefits actually worth it? Here are some ways that an AARP membership can save you money on your travel expenses.

AARP has partnered with the online travel platform Expedia to offer the AARP Travel Center by Expedia . The Travel Center functions just like the standard Expedia website, allowing users to search for flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, and other activities, but also includes all items that are eligible for an AARP discount.

One of the most popular AARP travel benefits is the ability to save quite a bit of money on British Airways flights . Those who have an AARP membership and book through the AARP British Airways discount page can score a $65 discount on all round-trip economy tickets and a $200 discount on all round-trip business class tickets.

Better yet, this discount is valid on British Airways-operated flights and BA codeshare flights, including those operated by American Airlines and Iberia Airlines.

Hot Tip:  Utilizing 1 British Airways $65 economy flight discount would cover your membership fees for over 4 years! An AARP membership is a no-brainer even if you fly with British Airways once a year. 

Your AARP membership won’t just save you money on your flights — members can also receive discounts at thousands of hotels worldwide, including up to 15% off at hotel chains  such as Hilton , Best Western , Radisson , and Wyndham .

AARP memberships can net you up to a 30% discount on car rentals from companies like Avis , Budget , and Payless, as well as select free vehicle upgrades, discounted GPS rates, and an additional driver at no cost.

When you’re traveling, you’ve got to eat, and AARP can regularly save you money on restaurants too. AARP memberships offer 10% to 15% off at restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill, Carrabba’s, Corner Bakery Cafe, Denny’s, Outback Steakhouse, and many more.

AARP members can save on their entertainment purchases, too, with merchants like Regal Cinemas and Ticketmaster. With Ticketmaster specifically, members can save up to 40% on tickets to select shows and events, and offers also include 2-for-1 tickets, Me + 3 (4-packs), and special events with select tickets under $40.

Now that you know anyone can be eligible for an AARP membership , and some of the great travel benefits that come along with it, you may be wondering if the membership is worth it. But given that the annual membership price is just $16 a year ($12 with auto-renewal), it is hard to imagine how it wouldn’t be.

Between savings on British Airways flights, hotels, rental cars , and popular restaurant chains, if you’re someone who can take advantage of some of the discounts offered, you can easily offset the cost of your annual membership. If your worried people might snicker at you when you pull out your AARP card, they won’t be snickering for long when you tell them how much money you’re saving!

Frequently Asked Questions

What travel benefits does aarp offer.

AARP memberships can save you money on dozens of different travel purchases, including airfare, hotels, rental cars, and entertainment tickets.

How much does an AARP membership cost?

AARP memberships are just $16 per year, or $12 if you sign-up for auto-renewal.

How old do you have to be to join AARP?

Many people are under the impression that you have to be at least 50, or retired, to join AARP, but this is not the case. There is no age requirement in order to have an AARP membership.

Is an AARP membership really worth it?

If you have a look at all of the benefits and discounts offered from an AARP membership, and think those discounts will save you more than $16 a year, then it is definitely worth signing up.

What is the AARP discount on British Airways tickets?

If you hold an AARP membership, and book through the AARP British Airways discount page , you’ll receive a $65 discount on all round-trip economy tickets, and a $200 discount on all round-trip business class tickets on British Airways-operated flights, including BA codeshare flights operated by American Airlines and Iberia Airlines.

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About Jarrod West

Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.

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How Anyone Can Use AARP to Save on Travel, Even If You Aren't Retired

Margaret Littman

April 4, 2024

In the spring of 2022, it seemed like everyone was hopping on a plane. (Others called it “revenge travel.” I just called it “happy to be out of the house.”) A friend whom I hadn’t seen since before the pandemic and I decided to spend a weekend in Charleston. We wanted to eat our way through the city, see the ocean, take some architecture tours, and catch up and hang out.

Everyone else had the same idea at the same time. Azaleas were in bloom. Rental cars were scarce, and hotels were overbooked. After being surprised by rates that were out of our budget, I logged in to AARP’s Travel Center and found a deal at Emeline, a design-forward boutique hotel in Charleston’s historic district. I snagged a car rental, too. They were both such a bargain, I double-checked that they were for real. 

I hesitated to tell my friend how I booked the room—I didn’t want her to think we were “old,” by getting help from AARP. But she couldn’t deny it: Our South Carolina getaway weekend was saved.

What is AARP? 

In the late 1940s, a retired school principal named Ethel Percy Andrus (in fact, the first female high school principal in California) saw that her peers needed health insurance. Medicare didn’t kick in until age 65, and those who retired before that age had few health insurance options and small pensions to pay for healthcare out of pocket. She started advocating for them, reaching out to insurance companies to see who would cover these retirees as a group during the pre-Medicare gap.

She was successful, and eventually, in 1958, the organization she founded became the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). The organization has gone through many changes since then. Now, the acronym stands alone as its name as the group’s scope has broadened. But Andrus’s vision of an advocate for senior citizens remains. 

Today, AARP is a non-partisan 501(c) (4) non-profit. It advocates for people over the age of 50 on topics such as Medicare and Social Security and has lobbyists who raise those issues in Washington, DC.  State offices disseminate local information on health, safety, and politics. In addition, AARP shares information with its members through events, a magazine, an app, its website, and newsletters, covering everything from retirement planning to choosing a new puppy, and even provides entertainment, such as free movie screenings. 

Who can join AARP? 

AARP has more than 38 million members. Anyone ages 18 and older can join, although the organization is focused on peopl ages 50 and older. One way you’ll know that your 50 th birthday is imminent is you’ll get a red and white membership solicitation in the mail. 

While anyone can join, those between the ages of 18 and 50 may not be eligible for all the discounts offered (such as those relating to insurance and others with third-party requirements). Those under 50 do not receive  AARP magazine .

How much is AARP membership? 

To welcome you into the fold, annual membership is $12 for the first year (if you sign up for automatic renewal) and $16 a year after that. Lower rates are available if you choose a longer period: $43 for three years or $63 for five years. Black Friday and other specials occasionally lower the price further. Military service members and veterans are eligible for a 43% discount.

Members ages 50 and older are eligible for a free secondary membership for any other adult in their house.

AARP travel benefits and discounts

AARP members receive a host of different benefits and discounts, from small savings on retail gift cards to health insurance to resume services, cell phone services, and online games. All of those benefits are separate from AARP travel perks , which are offered on a separate travel center website (with a separate log-in) administered by Expedia. 

Many of the discounts and offerings change frequently, so it is worth checking back often, particularly if you are planning a big-ticket trip. While most of the travel partners stay consistent, the rates of discounts vary based on peak periods and availability, just like all travel deals. Some discounts are flagged with expiration dates, such as British Airways, but for the most part, those are renewed from year to year. There are no guarantees in life or in travel, though, so if you see a great deal that works for you, book it!

Some of the discounts are similar to modest deals you can get with AAA and other memberships or by searching various online sites. It is handy to have it all in one place, and the perks for packages (for booking hotel, car, and flights at the same time) are unusual. Typically, lower AARP rates cannot be combined with other discounts, so you won’t stack multiple discounts to snag a free trip. The website allows you to search for last-minute deals, finding even lower discounts (often an additional 10%) for trips within the next two weeks.

In addition to the cents off, AARP is an advocate for its members, so if there is a problem with a booking, you can get a live person to sort things out. A dedicated phone number, 800-675-4318, connects members to the Travel Center. When I needed to change my South Carolina car rental to a one-way trip so I could add a roadtrip to Greenville, it was an easy modification.

Once you get where you are going, you may also find AARP discounts on tickets for shows through Ticketmaster, as well as discounted gift cards and meals at some chain restaurants. 

Best Western Hotels and Resorts

Best Western hotels and their related brands—including BW Premier Collection, Executive Residency by Best Western, Glo, SureStay Collection by Best Western, SureStay Hotel by Best Western, and Vib—offer 5% or more off the best available room rate. These brands include more than 4,000 hotels. AARP members who are also Best Western Rewards members 10% more bonus points on each stay.

Choice Hotels

AARP members receive a 10% discount at brands under the Choice brand umbrella, including Ascend Hotel Collection, Cambria Hotels, Clarion, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, Econo Lodge, Quality Inn, Radisson, Radisson Blu ,  Rodeway Inn, Sleep Inn, and others.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Nab up to 10% off rooms at this collection of brands, including Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Curio Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Tru by Hilton, and Waldorf Astoria. In addition to the discounted rate, members can request lake checkout until 2pm at no additional fee. AARP members who are Hilton Honors members earn points as usual on the discounted room, which is not always the case when booking through a third-party site.

AARP members can save 10% off the best available rate at the chain that claims to “leave a light on for you.” Request a late check out until 2pm at no additional fee.

Red Roof Inn

Save 10% off the best available room rate with an AARP membership Red Roof Inn, Red Roof PLUS+, Hometowne Studios by Red Roof, and The Red Collection .  Members also receive one free bottle of water per room at check-in.

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts

Brands under the Wyndham umbrella—including AmericInn, Baymont, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, La Quinta, Microtel, Ramada, Super 8, Travelodge, Wyndham, and others—offer 10% discounts to AARP members.

All Resort Store

Find discounts of 10%-25% off on all-inclusive resort packages. Booking online requires setting up an account with All Resort Store.

Car Rentals

Avis and budget.

These car rental companies offer 30% off the base rate plus a number of other benefits, such as free upgrades, discount credits on future rentals, and additional drivers at no extra cost. An additional $15 off is available for three-day rentals that are paid in advance. In my experience, they also may have cars available through the Travel Center when direct booking flags locations as sold out.

AARP members receive 5% of the off of base rates, plus a free upgrade.

AARP members can choose car sharing, rather than traditional rentals, with $20 off an annual Zipcar membership.

Airport parking

Park Ride Fly offers 12% off parking reservations at 50 different locations across the country. Most reservations include airport shuttles and luggage assistance. 

Trains, tours, and cruises

Collette Cruise Tours

Receive $50 - $100 off per person on river cruises in China, Egypt, and Norway.

Grand European Travel 

AARP members are eligible for up to $100 off per person on luxury river cruises in Europe, Egypt, and Asia.

Holland American Line

AARP Members who book Princess Cruises, Holland America, and Celebrity Cruises will find limited-time discounted offers on specific routes for specific dates. In addition, AARP members receive a $200 onboard credit.

Hurtigruten Expeditions 

The cruise line offers 5% off cruises plus a €100 per-person onboard credit to AARP members and non-members who book with the member. Hurtigruten discounts and offers are stackable.

Vacation By Rail 

Snag 5% off on more than 40 rail and cruise combination trips to National Parks, Alaska, Canada, and elsewhere in the U.S.

Through a partnership with AARDY, a travel insurance marketplace, members can compare discounted rates on different travel insurance policies in the U.S.

AARP members receive 20% off memberships to Medijet, which provides hospital-of-choice medical transfers when you are 150 miles or more from home. Services include transport and evacuation services.

Flight and vacation packages through British Airways

Book a flight on British Airways and receive $65 off a round-trip economy flight (not applicable to basic economy rates) or $200 off a round-trip business class ticket.

Most deals Going finds are bookable directly on the airline. So, when Going sends you an alert about a deal on British Airways, you can save a little bit more by booking directly with British Airways to get that AARP discount. 

It also pays to plan ahead. Members who purchase everything all at the same time, be that a flight and a hotel room, a flight, and a car rental, or all three together, receive a $50 gift card to select merchants.

Passport and visa services

AARP members can purchase passport renewal bundles that include shipping and government fees. Special pricing and expedited services through Rush My Passport are available for all passport types, including renewals, name changes, passport cards, travel visas, and other services. This is handy if you need to expedite processing for an upcoming trip. This benefit also applies to members' family members. 

How AARP discounts work

Most of the travel discounts are accessed through the AARP Travel Center website, which is operated by Expedia. Limited-time and special offers relating to travel may also be posted on the AARP website or in the app and then are booked or redeemed through a third-party site, some of which require a promo code. Logging into the AARP Travel Center requires an AARP membership number. Reservations can be made by calling 800-675-4318, although it can be harder to browse options over the phone.

Members may need to show their AARP membership card on check in to verify the discount. AARP provides digital cards for those who don’t want to carry a physical card.

Frequently asked questions about AARP Travel

AARP members receive modest discounts on many aspects of travel, from hotels to car rentals to passport expediting, all accessible from the same website. AARP’s low-cost membership fee makes it relatively easy to earn back the cost. Unlike booking through some other third-party sites, it is still possible to earn reward program points, though some discounts may be subject to some blackout periods.

The bottom line: Even if you aren’t yet in the typical AARP demographic, the annual membership can pay for itself with the discounts available. And pair it with a Going membership that helps you save on flights, and you could be traveling a lot more this year for less. 

Freelance Writer

Published April 4, 2024

Last updated April 4, 2024

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10 Ways to Save Money on Travel with AARP

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If you enjoy traveling, you’re likely interested in finding ways to save money — after all, travel isn’t always cheap. One option is using travel credit cards to earn rewards in the form of points or miles when making everyday purchases. Then, you can cash in your rewards for free or discounted flights and hotel stays.

Another way to reduce travel costs is by joining a membership-based program to access money-saving travel discounts. One such organization is AARP, which offers savings on shopping, entertainment, health, travel and more to its members — and you don’t have to be retired to take advantage of the benefits.

Here's how you can keep more money in your pocket by taking advantage of AARP travel discounts.

What is AARP and how much does it cost to join?

AARP is a nonprofit organization that advocates for Americans ages 50 and older. While the organization is popular among retirees, adults of all ages can join — and many do so to get discounts on everyday expenses.

You’ll need to pay a membership fee to take advantage of AARP’s money-saving perks. Here’s a breakdown of what it costs to join AARP:

One-year membership: $16.

One-year membership with auto-renew: $12.

Three-year membership: $43. 

Five-year membership: $63.

You can save on AARP membership fees using the shopping cash-back portal Rakuten. Current offers include $6 back on a one-year membership, $10 back on a three-year membership and $20 back on a five-year membership. You must activate this offer before joining to qualify for cash-back earnings.

» Learn more: How cash-back sites give you money for shopping

10 ways to save money on travel with AARP

If you’re not careful when planning for and booking your next vacation, the cost of your trip could add up quickly. But if you’re strategic and take advantage of discounts like AARP travel deals, you can plan an unforgettable adventure without spending more than you can afford.

AARP provides its members with many opportunities to save money on travel. Here’s a sampling of some of the travel discounts and perks available:

Avis: Get up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% off when selecting Pay Now. When booking, members also receive a 3% credit to apply to future rentals within 12 months. You’ll also get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings, when available, and you can add an additional driver at no cost. These benefits are available when booking online or by phone through Avis.

British Airways: Save $65 when booking an economy or premium economy class ticket or $200 when booking a business class ticket on select round-trip transatlantic fares through the British Airways website.

Collette Cruise Tours: Save $50 per person on all cruise tours.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts: Get up to 10% off and a 2 p.m. checkout when available. Hilton Honors members also get instant Hilton Honors Silver status and can keep their status for the next year when they complete two stays within six months.

Holland America Line: Get up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom. The credit amount varies based on the length of the cruise and the stateroom.

Kimpton Hotels & Resorts: Get discounts of 10% or more off the best available rate.

Payless Car Rental: Save 5% on leisure daily, weekly, weekend and monthly base rates. Members are also eligible for a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings.

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts: Get up to 10% off and a 2 p.m. checkout when available.

Wyndham: Get up to 10% off the best available rate when booking by phone or online. Join the Wyndham Rewards program to take advantage of extra perks.

Zipcar: Get $20 off an annual Zipcar membership. New Zipcar users will also receive $40 in driving credit.

Keep in mind this is just a sampling of available deals. AARP members can review current travel deals and discounts by logging in to their accounts.

» Learn more: Your guide to hotel bonus point promotions

Book your travel reservations through the AARP Travel Center

Discounts above aren't the only way to save on travel costs. AARP members can also get a deal when booking travel reservations through the AARP Travel Center, a booking platform powered by Expedia . How much money you can save by using the travel center varies depending on what you’re booking.

Here's a look at of some of the AARP Travel Center savings available to members:

Car rentals: Save up to 30% on base rates at Avis and Budget and 5% on rentals from Payless Car Rental. You can also get free upgrades, an additional driver at no cost and insurance benefits when booking car rentals through the AARP Travel Center.

Cruises: Get up to $100 in onboard credit on select voyages to certain destinations when booked through AARP Travel Expedia.

Flights and vacation packages: When booking a flight package through the AARP Travel Center, you'll get a $50 gift card of your choice.

Hotels: When booking select Choice, Wyndham and Best Western properties through the portal, you'll get a 10% discount.

Are you looking for other ways to save money when booking travel reservations as an AARP member? The AARP Travel Center has exclusive deals and seasonal savings, so regularly reviewing discount opportunities is worthwhile to ensure you don't miss out.

» Learn more: Best hotel credit cards

Is an AARP membership worth it for travelers?

Only you can decide if an AARP membership is worthwhile. But considering the affordable annual fee to become a member and the variety of ways to save on travel expenses, a membership could be worth it.

When deciding if this membership will meet your needs, consider how often you travel and whether you'd use the perks offered. Combining AARP deals with travel loyalty and rewards programs, along with a travel credit card , makes for an excellent money-saving strategy.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

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AARP Deals and Tips For Travel

Use these AARP travel deals during your next vacation to save on hotels and rental cars.

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Vacations are a lot more enjoyable when you don’t have to worry about going over your budget. However, it takes time to scour the internet for offers. If you’re an AARP member, though, you have plenty of travel deals included in your membership.

Formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, AARP memberships are open to anyone age 50 or older . Memberships cost $16 per year and come with a host of benefits such as a subscription to AARP: The Magazine, AARP Rewards and, of course, deals on dining, travel and more. 

There are so many details to consider when planning a trip , which means there are also plenty of opportunities to score some savings. 

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AARP flight deals 

Expedia: You can earn money on your booking when you choose a flight package with AARP’s dedicated Expedia link . When you book a flight and a hotel room or a flight and a rental car, you’ll get a $50 gift card. You can also book a flight, hotel and rental car for the deal.

British Airways: Book by January 31, 2024, for $200 off business class flights and $65 off standard and premium economy bookings. You must use the exclusive AARP British Airways link and be an AARP member or travel with an AARP member for the deal.

AARP hotel deals

Expedia: Save up to an extra 10% on your lodging when you book with the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia . You can also find limited-time offers such as $75 for your summer vacation.

Hotel chains: Choose from dozens of hotels on the AARP deals page to save at least 10% and up to 20% off the best room rate. From Hilton to Holiday Inn, there are options for wherever you go.

All Resort store: Get 25% off your weekly resort stay and up to 10% off vacation homes when you create a free All Resort account and choose “AARP” as your organization. 

Travel Agencies : Group travel is more affordable when you save up to $100 on small group tours with Collette Travel Agency. Call the agency at 800-437-0241 and mention your AARP membership for the deal. Or, save up to $100 on guided vacations with Grand European Travel (GET), which offers tours all around the world.

AARP rental car deals 

Expedia: Transportation doesn’t have to be a hefty cost when you save 30% on car rentals with the AARP Travel Center .

Avis, Budget, and Payless: Get up to 30% off your Avis or Budget car rental and 5% off a Payless rental.

Zipcar: Enjoy savings beyond your trip when you get $20 off a yearly Zipcar membership and $40 in driving credit for new users.

ParkRideFly: To save money before you even take off on your flight, use this 12% off airport parking deal .

AARP cruise deals

Expedia: Earn $100 in on-board credits for your cruise when you book with the AARP Travel Center . Destinations include the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe.

Travel Agencies: Collette and GET offer up to $100 off cruises to locations across the globe. Cruises can be expensive, so 5% off from Travel By Rail could save you a good amount of money.

Entertainment and dining

Keep the deals coming when you get to your destination. Get 10% off when you present your AARP card at restaurants such as McCormick, Schmick’s and Bonefish Grill. Your AARP card can also save you money on local activities when you search your vacation destination’s zip code .

AARP travel tips

AARP lists dozens of explicit travel deals on its website, but it’s not exhaustive. As long as you have your AARP card on you, it doesn’t hurt to ask your hotel or any establishment about deals you might have missed.

You can also use planning resources on the AARP website exclusive to members. It offers destination guides to help build your itinerary, members only content such as travel podcasts and articles and vacation inspiration when you don't know where to start.

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Collette Reitz is a freelance writer and editor. Previously, she was a news editor at Elite Daily, where she covered tech, social media, finance and trends. Collette studied at The Ohio State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. 

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AARP Travel Discounts & Perks You Don’t Want to Miss

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Newly retired? Checking off destinations on your bucket list? Traveling with your children or grandkids? If you're planning an upcoming vacation, you could be saving money on everything from flights and car rentals to hotels and cruises with an AARP membership.

AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons) offers all kinds of discounts and perks both locally and while traveling. The best part is, that there is no age minimum required for membership. Here are our favorite  AARP travel discounts  you don't want to miss. 

Pair this with a travel rewards credit card to stack even more savings.

AARP Flight Discounts

AARP-specific discounts on flights are currently limited to one airline, but you may still be able to find a deal using the  AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia .

British Airways

British Airways  is the only airline currently offering an AARP discount. Members receive $65 off economy or premium economy flights or $200 off business class seats when booking a round-trip transatlantic flight. 

AARP Car Rental Discounts

Here are some popular car rental companies that offer AARP-specific deals.

Budget  offers a discount on Budget Pay Now rates when you rent at a participating location in the contiguous United States and Canada. As an AARP member, you also receive a free one car class upgrade on compact through full-size, four-door vehicles and can add an extra driver at no extra cost. 

Avis  provides savings opportunities of up to 30% off when renting at participating locations in the United States. Receive a free one car class upgrade, discounted GPS services, a second driver free of charge, and unlimited mileage.

Payless  offers 5% off car rentals to AARP members in the United States and Canada. Occasional perks also include the ability to add an extra driver free of charge and free car upgrades. 

How to Save Money on Rental Cars: A Comprehensive Guide for 2022

Aarp hotel discounts.

Several hotel chains across the country and globe offer AARP discounts to members. Take advantage of a cheaper night's stay by booking with one of these companies.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts

Best Western  offers 5%-15% off your stay at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels. Simply reserve a room online and show your AARP membership card at check-in to receive your discount.

If you sign up for Best Western Rewards, you can also receive 10% more bonus points per stay as an AARP member.

Wyndham Hotel & Resorts

Wyndham  provides a 10% discount on hotel stays for AARP members. If you're also a Wyndham Rewards member, you can also join or renew your AARP membership with your rewards.

Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels  offers up to 10% discount at participating locations. Choice-brand hotels are available across the United States and a great option for affordable stays.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Hilton  provides up to 10% discount to AARP members on hotels around the world. You can also receive late check-out when it's available.

Red Roof Inn

Red Roof Inn  offers up to 10% savings on the best available room rates all year round for AARP members.

5 Easy Ways to Get Free Hotel Rooms

Other aarp travel discounts.

Not only can you save money as an AARP member on flights, hotels, and car rentals, but you can save money on guided tours and cruises, too.

Collette Tours

Collette  offers discounts on single-city tours, seven-day, multi-continent tours, and specific cruises. Take a cruise through Europe or enjoy a cultural immersion tour all for a discounted price.

Vacations by Rail

Vacations by Rail  offers member discounts on all excursions, including tours, train tickets, cruises and more.

Grand European Travel

Grand European Travel  also offers member discounts on guided tours and cruises that can span six continents.

Travel Planning Services

Not a fan of planning every detail of your trip on your own? No worries! AARP offers travel tips and vacation ideas to help get the ball rolling.

Medjet Travel Protection

It's best to be safe when traveling. A  Medjet membership  helps you receive medical care when you're traveling and AARP members receive 20% off a membership. 

MedjetAssist, one of the coverage plans, covers medical transfers to a hospital of your choice, including all transportation costs, when you're more than 150 miles from home.

MedjectHorizon includes the benefits of MedjetAssist plus travel security around the world, evacuation services, and crisis response.

Park Ride Fly USA

Arranging a ride to and from airports can be challenging, but  Park Ride Fly USA  makes it easier. Park Ride Fly USA offers off-airport parking locations nationwide and, as an AARP member, you'll receive 12% off your reservation. Reservations include luggage assistance and airport shuttle service.

AARP Membership FAQs

Who is eligible for an aarp membership.

Many people associate AARP with seniors. Although AARP is dedicated to people ages 50 and older, there is no minimum age requirement necessary to become an AARP member. Please note that some AARP benefits, such as age-restricted insurance perks, may not apply to members under age 50.

How much does an AARP membership cost?

Regular annual membership will cost $16 per year. If you choose automatic renewal, your membership will cost $12 a year. Special discounts are offered to those who commit to three- or five-year memberships, costing $43 or $63 respectively.

AARP will occasionally offer deals on memberships, so check out their current membership deals.

How do I use my AARP discounts?

Once you register to join AARP, you’ll receive a membership card with a member number on it. Use that membership number or simply show your card to receive benefits at restaurants, while shopping, dining purchases, prescriptions and travel.

Is an AARP membership worth it?

If you're 50 years or older, an AARP membership is a great deal. The membership essentially pays for itself after just one dinner at a restaurant or one night at a hotel. 

Perks of an AARP membership include:

• Discounts at participating restaurants
• Discounts on flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and tours
• Discounts on prescription medications and eyeglasses
• Financial planning services and fraud prevention

Even if you are not over 50 years old, you can still extract a lot of value from joining AARP due to the discounts for travel, dining, entertainment and more. But do keep in mind that there are some products and services that only apply to seniors. Regardless, the low annual membership is absolutely worth it for those who plan to take advantage of the many discounts available to use every year. 

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A Guide to AARP Membership

Is AARP worth it? Learn about the costs and benefits of AARP membership to decide if you'd like to join.

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AARP caters to older people who are looking for benefits and a sense of community. The organization offers an annual membership that provides access to senior discounts and offers.

There can be great benefits to getting older, including the discounts and promotions that many companies offer to senior citizens . AARP caters to older people who are looking for benefits and a sense of community. The organization offers an annual membership that provides access to senior discounts and offers. In addition to saving money, AARP gives its members other perks ranging from publications to games to information about topics like Social Security and volunteer opportunities.

If you’re thinking about joining AARP, it can be a good idea to understand what is involved. “AARP membership can be a valuable resource,” says Ryan McCarty, a financial planner with experience in retirement planning at Castle Rock Investment Company in Castle Rock, Colorado. “However, weighing the costs and benefits is essential.”

When considering an AARP membership, it can be helpful to know:

• What is AARP?
• The age you can join AARP.
• The cost to join AARP.
• The benefits of AARP membership.
• AARP discounts.
• If AARP is worthwhile for you.
• AARP advocacy.

What Is AARP?

In 1958, Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired high school principal, founded AARP with a goal of advocating for productive aging and health insurance for retirees. At the time, private health insurance wasn’t available for most older Americans. Medicare didn't begin until 1965. So Andrus approached insurance companies and found one that would cover older people. The organization went on to develop additional benefits and programs that aimed to promote independence and dignity, provide a sense of purpose, improve quality of life and encourage seniors to look for ways to serve others.

Today, AARP is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan group that focuses on empowering seniors to choose how they want to live as they age. The organization has almost 38 million members and offices in every state. AARP also advocates on issues that impact older people with a focus on topics such as health, safety and financial soundness.

The Age You Can Join AARP

AARP is dedicated to serving individuals who are age 50 or older, although there is no minimum age to join. If you have not yet reached age 50, you can become a member. However, younger members may not be able to access all the benefits, as some have age limitations and are only available to people who are 50 or older.

Jill Taylor, a homesteader and founder of Happy Farmyard, became a member the day after turning 50. “I’d heard they offered discounts on everything from travel to groceries, and I wanted to see if their membership was worth the price,” Taylor says.

The Cost to Join AARP

If you decide to join AARP, you’ll be asked to pay a membership fee of $16 per year. With the purchase of your membership, you will receive a free second membership that you can give to any adult in your household. If you sign up for automatic renewal, you will only be charged $12 the first year. You can also select a membership term of three years for $43 or five years for $63.

When you join, you’ll be asked to fill out information, including your name, birthday and address. You can create an AARP account online and will also receive a membership card.

The Benefits of AARP Membership

As a member of AARP, you will have access to games and activities that stimulate brain health, including puzzles and quizzes. You can also get help managing your finances through money tools and assistance with security through the fraud resource center. If you have questions on Social Security , you’ll find information to guide you through the benefits available to you. There are free educational resources and services to help you find ways to volunteer in your community. You will also get AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.

AARP Discounts

With your membership, you’ll receive deals and discounts that can be applied to travel, restaurants, delivery services, health and wellness products and more. “The AARP has already saved me hundreds of dollars on my travel expenses,” Taylor says. “Plus, I get a discount on my car insurance and my home insurance.”

Is AARP Worth It?

If you take advantage of the discounts and promotions available from AARP, you may find that the amount you save is greater than the cost of membership. Individuals who don’t use the offers might evaluate if the other benefits, such as Social Security information, games and the publications, make up for the cost.

“You always will be required to pay that annual fee even if you do not utilize much of the membership benefits throughout the year,” says Lisamarie Monaco, an independent life insurance agent in Jacksonville, Florida. “If you ever find yourself not in need of this service you can cancel at any time. You are not locked into a specific term.”

AARP’s Advocacy

Continuing with its founding principles, AARP works to provide benefits for the older population. It advocates for the continuation of Social Security benefits, along with programs to help American workers grow their retirement savings . It is also actively involved in efforts against age discrimination in the workplace and in society. AARP strives to lower prescription drug costs for seniors and improve the coordination of care and use of technology in health care.

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Tags: retirement , money , AARP , senior citizens

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You don't have to be retired (or old) to join AARP — here's why you'll want to be a member at almost any age

You can join the aarp at any age. it's cheap and the discounts can be well worth it..

If you're trying to save money, joining the AARP® (American Association of Retired Persons) may not be your first thought, especially if you're not retired. But people in their 20s, 30s and 40s are doing just that because you don't have to be retired or over the age of 50 to join.

An AARP membership unlocks discounts on flights, hotels, restaurants , cell phone service, auto insurance , homeowners insurance and so much more. And it's affordable — AARP membership only costs $12 for the first year with automatic renewal and $16 per year after that. You can save even more if you sign up for a multi-year AARP membership plan.

If you're not sure if an AARP membership is worth it for you, there are a few deals that by themselves make the cost more than worth it.

Who should get an AARP membership right now?

An AARP membership is great for anyone who's always on the hunt for the best deal. Its discounts can help when you shop for a rental car , hotel , or a better deal on your car insurance , and often the deal is good enough to more than offset the cost of membership.

But it can be a headache if you're trying to wrap your head around all the possible ways a membership with AARP can save you money . A simpler way to approach the decision is to find a single discount that will more than cover the membership fee, and then consider all of the other savings as a bonus.

Here are three discounts that can make an AARP membership worth it by themselves.

AT&T customers

If you're an AT&T customer or are looking at switching cell phone providers be sure to factor in the potential AARP discount into the equation. AARP members are eligible for an up to $10 monthly discount per line with AT&T .

That's $120 in savings a year, which is ten times what you pay for your first annual membership. And if you have multiple lines, the savings can add up even more. The discount applies to accounts with up to five lines and also includes waived select activation fees, waived select upgrade fees and 15% off eligible accessories.

Pro tip: Be sure to pay your monthly cell phone bills with a credit card that provides cell phone protection , such as the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card which provides $600 cell phone protection (subject to a $25 deductible; see rates and fees ) .

Anyone booking a British Airways flight

AARP members can purchase British Airways tickets for $65 to $200 off . Even on the low end, taking advantage of this benefit just once would offset the cost of a five-year membership.

With this benefit, AARP members get:

• $65 off eligible round-trip economy flights (not including basic economy)
• $65 off eligible round-trip premium economy flights
• $200 off eligible round-trip business class flights

Technically this offer is only valid through March 31, 2024. However, it has been around for many years now and has been renewed annually.

Don't miss: Best airline credit cards

Frequent travelers

There are a lot of ways an AARP membership can help you save money on your next vacation with discounts at restaurants, hotels and rental car companies.

A wide range of hotels offer 5% to 20% off for AARP members and some even include late checkout on top of the discount. Avis and Budget offer up to 30% off car rentals for AARP members, and you can also get $20 off an annual Zipcar membership.

With your AARP card, you can also save on food at a bunch of popular national restaurant chains including Bonefish Grill, Carrabba's, Moe's, Jamba and more. You can also search for local coupons and deals at specific restaurants and franchise locations nearby.

Don't miss: Best travel credit cards

Other benefits

While these are some of the easiest-to-use benefits, many more perks that come with an AARP membership. For example, you can receive exclusive discounts on event tickets through Ticketmaster, prescription medications, eyewear, vision exams and hearing care. There are also opportunities to save on various insurance products, including special discounts for bundling home and auto insurance . By completing the AARP Smart Driver course, members may qualify for even more savings on auto insurance.

AARP membership requirements

AARP memberships are available to anyone 18 or older, the only caveat is certain deals may be age-restricted, such as some insurance products.

An AARP membership costs $16 a year, but you can save on the first year or lock in savings with a multi-year membership:

• $12 the first year (with automatic renewal)
• $43 for a three-year membership
• $63 for a five-year membership

There are also additional membership deals available. For example, military members and veterans can save up to 43% on an AARP membership. Plus, you can share your AARP with another adult in your household for free.

Compare offers to find the best savings account

Are there any real benefits to joining aarp.

AARP members can take advantage of discounts across a wide range of purchases, including insurance, travel and entertainment.

Is AAA or AARP better for discounts?

AAA and AARP are similar in many ways, both offer a variety of discounts and roadside assistance services. Neither service is definitively better for discounts — you'll need to look at each offer on a case-by-case basis.

What are the benefits of AARP if you're under 50?

Younger AARP members can take advantage of most of the same benefits as members who are over the age of 50. However, there may be age restrictions for some products, such as insurance.

Is it difficult to cancel an AARP membership?

Canceling an AARP membership isn't difficult. The simplest ways to cancel are by calling 800-514-4564 or chatting online with an agent .

Bottom line

AARP members can take advantage of discounts for travel , cell phone services, insurance and more. And you don't have to be 50 or older to join AARP. Plus, it's cheap, the first year only costs $12 ( with automatic renewal), and you can easily save many times that by using a single discount. As an added bonus, new members typically also receive a gift (i.e. a charging hub, packing cubes, etc.).

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

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Frequently asked questions

Why should i book my aarp flights with the aarp travel center.

With the AARP Travel Center, you have access to a fantastic selection of flights and flight packages with exclusive AARP discounts. Explore flights to popular destinations from Cancun to Las Vegas, Paris, Vancouver, Aruba, and much more. The AARP Travel Center is your one-stop shop for booking your entire trip. Enjoy AARP flight package discounts and special offers on accommodation , car rentals , and activities .

How can I find the best flights with the AARP Travel Center?

You can find great deals on flights with the AARP Travel Center’s powerful search engine. Filter your search results according to options such as airline, number of stops, or arrival time. Typically, the further in advance you book your flights the more likely you are to find deals on flight packages and travel. Adjusting your travel dates outside of the peak tourist seasons can often mean fantastic savings. Flights and vacation packages for popular destinations such as Cancun and Playa Del Carmen are typically at their most expensive between December and April.

How do I manage my AARP Travel Center flight booking?

To manage your AARP Travel Center flight booking, you first need to log in to your AARP Travel Center account. When you are logged in, head to the “My Trips” section of the website in the upper right corner of your screen. There you can easily find information and amend or cancel your booking. Cancellation and change fees may apply. 

5 travel discounts that can save you money

A s travel continues to get more expensive, our core goal at TPG remains the same: to introduce our readers to all the ways they can save money while traveling.

Our bread and butter is leading you to the right credit cards to maximize points and miles savings. However, we also love providing you with travel discounts — including some you may not have even realized you were eligible for.

AAA and AARP rates

Both AAA and AARP offer discounts at various travel companies, including popular hotel chains and rental car companies.

With varying discounts (5%-10%) available on standard nightly rates, be sure to indicate you are a member when searching for a hotel to reserve these special rates. Note that you have to book directly with the hotel to take advantage of these rates. Participating hotel brands include Hyatt, Hilton, IHG and Marriott.

In addition to a discounted rate, memberships may offer additional benefits, such as free parking.

Membership can also help you save on car rentals, up to 20% for AAA and 30% for AARP. Additionally, AAA Northeast members are eligible for preferred rates at Dollar, Hertz and Thrifty; they can also get the under-25 rental car fee waived at Hertz and get free car seats at some locations.

As with the hotel rates, discounted car rates vary based on location and when you rent.

For all AAA car rental discounts, see AAA's website .

Government and military rates

If you are a government employee (at the national, state or local level) or work for any other public employer (such as a school district or transportation agency), you may be eligible for government rates.

Like AAA and AARP rates, you can book government and military rates on the hotel site directly as a special rate. Federal government rates differ from state government rates and are set to a per diem the federal government selects, which you can view on the General Services Administration website .

Additionally, you might find military rates. On both the state and federal government rates, travel orders are required. Eligibility for the military rate is also outlined.

Per diem rates also vary among hotels. For example, a quick search of Hilton properties available in mid-March in Washington, D.C. , yielded government and military rates starting at $258 per night.

Expect to present your federal government ID to get the government rate, and also know that some hotels require you to be traveling on business to reserve the government rate.

Government and military rates can be a great way to save on hotels, but you need to fully understand the terms before making your reservation. You don't want to be in a place where you cannot provide proper documentation when checking in to a hotel; this could void your reservation or could result in you paying the walk-up rate for your room.

Military rates are also available on most cruise lines, and you can use your military status for discounts at theme parks.

Check for resident rates

If you are taking a staycation, check for resident rates in your city or state.

For example, The Laylow, Autograph Collection in Honolulu offers a discounted rate to those with a valid Hawaiian ID, up to approximately 25% off the standard rate. This also includes a $20 valet parking discount.

Corporate rates

Your employer — especially if it's a Fortune 500 company — might offer travel discounts for its employees. This includes bookings with hotels, rental car companies and airlines.

Check your company's travel portal or benefits page for more information.

University rates

Many universities also offer discounts to students , alumni and their families, so consider reviewing your university's travel page to see if there are any discounts you can leverage.

For example, DePaul University offers preferred rates at a handful of Chicago hotels, like the Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park. DePaul alumni, faculty, parents, retirees, staff members and students get up to 20% off the standard rate.

Only use corporate and education discount codes if you're eligible for them. Otherwise, as with government rates, you could be on the hook for a much larger travel bill if you can't produce proof of eligibility.

Bottom line

There are many ways to save on your trip using published discount policies. It's always worth the extra few moments to check other rate options when booking a hotel and renting a car. Depending on your employer, your school or the associations you belong to, you could save a fair amount on your next hotel stay.

Just be sure to follow the rules of these travel discounts, as the consequences of rate fraud can be severe.

Related reading:

• Valuable travel discounts and deals for college students and young adults
• How to use your AARP discount on travel
• Is AAA membership worth it?
• Best all-inclusive resorts for teens for spring break trips, family vacations and more
• Enjoy free national park visits — here's how to save
• How to save on cruises with AARP Travel
• The best military travel discounts and perks for service members

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Are AARP Discounts Worth It for RVers?

• RV Lifestyle

Do RVers Benefit from AARP Discounts?

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a huge organization that offers members a wide range of discounts, services, resources, and information. Below is an overview of the pros and cons of an AARP membership to help you determine if membership is right for you.

Join at any age  

Here’s a news flash… You don’t even need to be retired to join AARP and take advantage of all the benefits and discounts offered to members.  In fact, you don’t even have to be over 50 . They offer a full membership for those 50 and over as well as an Associate membership for those under 50.

Get access without joining

The fact is, for just $16 per year, you can join AARP at any age, and many of their benefits would be enjoyed by people of all ages. There is one even lesser-known fact about AARP, and that is that you can sign-up, and access many of their vast resources, without even paying the $16 annual fee.  But to access ALL the discounts and to receive their magazine, it will cost you the equivalent of $1.33 per month.

Membership benefits and AARP discounts

Membership provides a variety of discounts and savings. It includes a 10% discount on qualifying pharmaceutical products at Walgreens, or Walmart, and Vision Care at Target. Discounts are also available on hearing aids, dental care, long term health insurance, supplemental health insurance, home, auto, property, and pet insurance.

AARP members also have access to free online games. They also enjoy a wide range of online classes and events for entertainment, education, job tips, self-improvement, and fun. The AAPR website and magazine include a wide selection of articles about investing, retirement planning, money management, and other financial discussions and resources. These benefits can benefit people of all ages. 

Perhaps people who have not yet reached retirement age would benefit the most from some of this sage advice. This fact alone might be reason enough for people to join before retirement.

Does AARP offer camping discounts?

However, if you’re thinking about joining AARP solely for the discounts it offers on camping, I would recommend against it. My research indicates that some campgrounds may offer a 10% on your stay with an AARP membership. But I could not find a full listing of these RV parks in the AARP database. 

Additionally, I believe that many of these parks also offer Good Sam or Passport America membership discounts and those discounts could be up to 50% off. 

Camping discounts may not be a great reason to join AARP. But membership does provide access to additional discounts on other products and services. These discounts include travel arrangements, discounts at some restaurants, on groceries, gas, and auto services. Additionally, AARP teamed up with Consumer Cellular to secure discounted cellular plans for members. AARP membership opens a wide library of popular online and print books at a discount.

Virtual communities

The point is, you don’t have to be over 62 & retired to benefit from an AARP membership. The name says, “Retired Persons” and more and more people are finding ways to retire in their 30s and 40s. Virtual communities within the AARP membership are geared for all types of interests and you can join these groups online to find like-minded people who share your interests and passions. With 38 million members, you’re sure to find connections in these virtual communities.

Additionally, AARP offers a free job search platform to help their members over 50 who still want to work find a new job that’s right for them.  The job search function focuses on the benefits of hiring experienced workers. This online tool can be filtered by location, part-time vs full-time work, and more.

Senior discounts 

For just $16 per year, AARP offers its members a lot of valuable resources. AARP membership also gives discounts but many of these same discounts are available to all seniors whether you’re an AARP member or not. Senior discounts are often available to people over 50. Or in some cases, over 65 if you just remember to ask. 

Many restaurants offer senior discounts. And many grocery stores have a particular day of the week where all groceries are sold to seniors at a discount. Auto services, travel agencies, and other service providers may also offer senior discounts if you remember to ask.

From this prospective, AARP might be a bigger benefit for people who are younger than 50. Younger people don’t qualify for senior discounts, unless they have an AARP affiliation. Additionally, the financial planning strategies available through AARP are more effective the earlier they are incorporated in a person’s work life. Therefore, younger people who join AARP might benefit the most from their membership.

AARP has a lot of good benefits, and you may be able to save money with a membership. Now you know what the pros and cons of AARP membership. Only you can decide if joining AARP makes sense for you.  If you’re joining just for the camping discounts, it’s probably not worth it. You can get higher discounts from other memberships.  

One of the best parts about RVing is engaging with the community of traveling enthusiasts. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and much more.

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Take It From Flight Attendants — This Spacious Underseat Carry-on Is ‘a Must’ for Traveling Light

Travelers are shocked by how much it can fit and still slide under an airplane seat.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

As the trusted luggage brand of airline workers, Travelpro excels in pretty much every category, from size to design, durability to customer service. The one catch is that the quality of the bags often comes at a high price. Right now, though, you can get a good deal on the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Carry-on that flight attendants call the “ perfect size .” 

This roomy bag that can fit four days’ worth of clothing with room to spare while still slipping under the airplane seat in front of you is from the brand’s classic Maxlite 5 collection. It’s one of the top-rated travel totes at Amazon, and you can snag it now for just $75, 25 percent off the original price.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Carry-on

One of the major problems you can run into with an underseat carry-on is that it doesn’t actually fit under the seat. And if it doesn’t fit under the seat, you don’t get easy access to the stuff inside it on your flight, and worse, you might even be charged extra baggage fees. You don’t have to worry about all that with Travelpro, whose sophisticated designs are made and used by real travel professionals. 

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Carry-on measures 11 inches by 18 inches by 8 inches. It’s compact enough to slide under most seats but carries a surprising amount for its size. One reviewer said they fit two pairs of jeans, eight XL shirts, nine boxer briefs, running shorts, a quart-size bag of liquids, and some tech accessories just in the main compartment and side pocket. They reported no bulging, and the front pockets were still empty.

The outside of the bag has the brand’s DuraGard coating that repels water and resists staining. Inside, it’s lined with another water-resistant layer to keep liquids from seeping in or spilling out.

Flight attendants give the carry-on five stars, one saying it “goes anywhere with everything in it.” Another wrote that they “often carry snow boots, another pair of shoes, and a medium purse” and still have extra room for books.

The carry-on can be carried by the handles or detachable shoulder strap, or you can stack it on your suitcase with a rear strap that secures to an extension handle. It comes in two shades of pink, azure blue, slate green, and black, with the pink style being the most discounted. Prices range from $75 to $90 depending on color, compared to the original price of $100. 

Almost 3,000 shoppers have given the tote five stars at Amazon, and more than 400 have purchased it in the past month alone. Decide for yourself whether the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Carry-on is worth the hype, or shop more flight attendant-loved carry-ons on sale now, below.

More Deals on Flight Attendant-loved Carry-ons:

Amazon basics underseat carry-on, tprc smart underseat carry-on, travelpro crew versapack carry-on, samsonite underseat carry-on spinner.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $75.

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A Twisty Intergalactic Spectacle

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Something spacey is coming this way from the great mind of internationally acclaimed puppetry artist, Basil Twist! He returns to Hip Pocket for a one-of-a-kind intergalactic Twist-ian experience.

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What to Do After You’ve Experienced a Scam

Take these key steps to protect your bank accounts and personal information, and find the support you need.

Patrick J. Kiger,

Last December, Pat Holden, 76, of El Cajon, California, received what appeared to be an email from Amazon , offering a three-month free membership to the Amazon Prime service, which provides free shipping on eligible items, among other perks.

Holden, a former official with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), normally is wary of such unsolicited pitches. But the high-quality graphics in the email looked authentic, and the offer was attractive.

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“I had just thought about getting Prime,” Holden recalls. “So I jumped on it, which you should never do.”

She filled out and submitted the application, including her credit card number , but when she didn’t receive an email acknowledgment, she became suspicious. When she pulled up the original offer, she saw that it hadn’t come from an Amazon address.

Many of us might begin to panic, but Holden kept her cool. She called Amazon, and confirmed that the offer hadn’t come from the company. “‘You’ve been scammed,’ they told me,” Holden recalls. “ ‘Call your bank.’ And that’s exactly what I did.”

Bank officials agreed to put a hold on any suspicious transactions on her credit card.

Thanks to Holden’s immediate action, she didn’t lose any money to the criminals. Online safety and anti-scam experts wish more Americans would respond to scams just as quickly, as fraud has become an epidemic — increasingly sophisticated and financially devastating .

As soon as you realize you’ve experienced a scam, it’s crucial to take certain steps to prevent money loss and identity theft in its aftermath.

And note that at any point you can contact the free AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline , 877-908-3360, where trained fraud specialists provide support and guidance on what to do next and how to avoid scams in the future.

Have you seen this scam?

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What to do in the wake of a scam

1. Immediately cut off communication with the scammer.

You might be tempted to keep corresponding with the criminal, hoping you can persuade them to return your money or that they’ll let slip some information that will help law enforcement catch them. But scam prevention experts say continued communication is unlikely to help. “Don’t engage any further with the scammer under any circumstances,” says Michael Bruemmer, head of Global Data Breach Resolution at credit reporting company Experian and a fraud expert. “There’s nothing good that would come out of that.”

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2. Notify your bank and credit card companies.

Your bank and your credit card company should be your first two calls, says Amy Nofziger, director of victim support for the AARP Fraud Watch Network. If scammers already have gained access to your bank account, the bank can change your account number to deny them further access.

Check your recent credit or debit card transactions, and tell your financial institutions if you spot any fraudulent charges, says the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): “Ask them to reverse the transaction and give you your money back.”

Lisa Schifferle, a senior policy analyst in the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)’s Office for Older Americans, suggests that you also contact anyone else who’s made a payment to a scammer on your behalf, such as a wire transfer service or gift card company. “Ask them to stop payment, and see if you can get your money back,” Schifferle says. It may be a long shot at best, she says, but is worth a try.

3. Change your passwords.

Darius Kingsley, head of consumer banking practices at JPMorgan Chase & Co., recommends that you change your passwords as a precaution — and don’t stop with just the financial accounts. “You’re better off just going and changing those kind of major passwords, even if it’s a major online retailer or your personal email account,” he says. “I would recommend that you lock those down by changing them very quickly.”

4. Document the scam.

Gather evidence of fraudulent transactions and communications with scammers, and any information that might possibly help to identify the criminals, says Zulfikar Ramzan, chief scientist and executive vice president of product and development at Aura, which offers "an all-in-one online safety solution" to protect against issues such as identity theft and financial fraud. If you have an identity theft insurance policy, amassing this sort of information is especially crucial.

“You want to make sure that you have all of your receipts and all of the documentation in one place,” notes Josh Planos,  vice president of communications and public relations for the BBB. Whatever information you’re able to gather will be a help to investigators, and may even improve your chances of recovering money that you’ve lost. 

5. Report the scam.

Bruemmer recommends filing a police report with your local department to document the scam. You also should report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. The agency shares information with more than 2,800 law enforcement agencies.

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6. Protect your credit. 

Schifferle suggests that you download a free copy of your credit report via the government-authorized website AnnualCreditReport.com , and scrutinize it carefully for anything that doesn’t look right. She says you should also consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report, which forces creditors to take additional steps to verify that the person who wants to open an account is you. Or you can simply put a security freeze on your credit, which prevents new creditors from accessing your file at all, unless you unfreeze it. Here’s a primer  on how to do all that.

7. Remain vigilant.  

It’s important to keep a close eye on your financial accounts for signs of intrusion or identity theft over the long term. “You should do a little reconnaissance,” Bruemmer says. “Have you seen strange statements, or have you been getting different bills, or any strange email or mail?” If you signed up for an identity theft protection service or us a free service such as the nonprofit Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) , you can seek help from them on how to mitigate the risk. 

8. Share your experience with someone you trust.

Emotional support from a trusted person can be a big help. Also consider joining a support group such as the ReST Program , a joint effort of AARP Fraud Watch Network and Volunteers of America (VOA) that offers small online groups in which members are led in discussion by one or more trained peer facilitators.

9. Try not to blame yourself. 

“Remember that scams are crimes,” Schifferle emphasizes. “Many are perpetrated by organized crime rings. They can and do happen to anyone regardless of age, race, gender or socioeconomic status. So don’t blame yourself.” Too often victims feel ashamed and don’t report these crimes, or try to hide them from loved ones. The more information law enforcement has, the better they can target their investigations and stop the perpetrators.

10. Spread the word about scams.

“Teaching others can not only help you rebuild confidence and trust,” says Schifferle, “but also helps others avoid scams.”

Patrick J. Kiger is a contributing writer for AARP. He has written for a wide variety of publications, including the  Los Angeles Times Magazine,   GQ  and  Mother Jones , as well as the websites of the Discovery Channel and  National Geographic .

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