aaa travel national office

AAA TourBook ® Guides

The travel information you trust, reimagined for on-the-go., find your next getaway with the tourbook guides, available for destinations across north america and the caribbean..

Since 1926, AAA members have trusted the travel information in AAA's free TourBook guides to help them plan their most memorable vacations, whether it's a cozy romantic escape, a fun family vacation or an adventure-filled trip with friends.

What you'll find in every TourBook:

• City overviews
• Must-see attractions
• Sample itineraries
• AAA Diamond hotels
• “Book Now” buttons to reserve your hotel room with AAA rates
• Nearby road trips and scenic drives

Our Travel Editors and AAA Inspectors

Our travel editors find the attractions you don't want to miss, including those designated AAA GEM (Great Experience for Members) attractions. Editors have even created sample 1-day itineraries to help you make the most of your trip.

Our AAA inspectors evaluate hotels across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. They check for quality, amenities and cleanliness, and they designate each hotel according to the AAA Diamond Program. Diamond designations are based on the level of amenities you can expect at each property, so you know that no matter the Diamond level, you can be confident that every AAA Diamond property has passed a rigorous, in-person inspection and is Inspected Clean.

Select a TourBook guide below and begin planning your next adventure today!

Alaska and Canada

Mexico & Caribbean

Planning to rent a car and venturing out into the world on your own? Plan to obtain an International Driving Permit before you go.

Aaa is the only entity in the u.s. authorized by the u.s. department of state to issue an idp.*, why carry an idp.

Your IDP is a valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information. It translates your identification information into 10 languages — so it speaks the language even if you don't. Most countries highly recommend an International Driving Permit.

Another country cannot issue an IDP to be used in conjunction with a US driver’s license. An IDP accompaning a US driver’s license can only be issued in the USA. See ALREADY OVERSEAS

Many countries require an IDP to drive legally. Fines for driving without an IDP can be quite costly. Check countries requirements before travel.

An IDP gives you peace of mind while you're out exploring the world - even if you're not planning to drive!

* International Driving Permits may not be issued more than six (6) months in advance of desired effective date. **Contact the AAA Travel office directly to verify IDP Services is available. *** plus sales tax if applicable. Check with the nearest travel office for exact fees.

How to Apply?

To apply in person at a AAA Travel office. You will need to provide:

• Download and fill out an application (new tab) , and bring it to your nearest AAA Travel office** (new tab) .
• Two original passport pictures (also available at AAA Travel offices AAA Travel offices**).
• A valid U.S. driver's license.
• Pay $20 USD permit fee and you're ready to go!***

Apply by Mail If you are not able to visit your nearest AAA Travel office, your IDP can be obtained through the mail. Simply enclose the following and mail them to the AAA Travel office nearest you (check locally for payment options):

• Your completed IDP application form
• Two original passport pictures each signed on the back
• $20 USD permit fee***
• A photocopy of both sides of your driver's license
• If desired, include additional U.S. funds for expedited return mail service. See USPS.com (new tab) or Fedex.com (new tab) for rates.

Already Overseas?

If you are currently overseas you can mail your completed application to the following office and address:

AAA/IDP 1000 AAA Drive Heathrow, FL 32746 Attn: Mail Stop #28

Please allow 5-7 weeks for return mail. [email protected] Replies will be within 24 to 48 hours Due to the recent change in U.S. Customs law impacting USPS Express International mail, FedEx* will be used to most countries. Go to FedEx.com for additional charges. Please provide a street address for delivery, and expect delivery up to 10 business days after IDP is processed.

International Driving Permit Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How will I benefit?

Am I required to have an IDP in foreign countries?

• What happens if I am stopped…

Since Hong Kong was transferred from Great Britain to China, do I still need an IDP to drive there?

• Does possession of the IDP/IADP along with my U.S. issued driver’s license override any local laws?

If someone visits the United States from a foreign country and discovers that they need an IDP, can they purchase one from AAA?

• I have a U.S. driver’s license, but I am a citizen of another country…

If someone has a driver’s license from a U.S. territory such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, how would an IDP work for them?

Can i use a scanned/digital photograph.

• I am on active duty in the military…
• I am traveling to South America…
• Which Geographical Areas/Countries Required IDP?

Can I get an IDP if I only have a temporary license?

What do i need to obtain an idp, how will i benefit by carrying an international driving permit on my next overseas trip.

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that provides important information from your driver’s license in eleven different languages, including English. This document came into existence by virtue of a treaty signed in 1949 by the United States and other foreign countries. As an official document, the IDP is recognized in over 150 countries today. Carried in conjunction with a regular drivers license, the IDP can help break down language barriers when traveling in non-English speaking countries. In addition, the IDP provides an additional source of identification. The $20 charge for an IDP is a small price to pay for such peace of mind.

There are some countries that do not recognize a drivers license from the United States, but officially recognize an IDP (e.g. Hungary). There are other countries that honor a United States drivers license, but require a local language translation (e.g. Spain). The IDP can satisfy these types of situations. Keep in mind, however, that while a certain country’s government may not require an IDP, car rental companies located in that country, such as Hertz, may require an IDP to rent a car. Purchasing an IDP prior to departure can save a lot of potential hassles. NOTE: If you are living permanently in a foreign country, even though you may still hold a U.S. state issued driver's license, you must abide by local driver's licensing laws. Many countries require that you obtain a local license once you take up employment and/or residency.

What happens if I am stopped and given a citation against my IDP?

The IDP does not hold any powers of its own apart from your drivers license, and therefore, you do not have a separate driving record with an IDP. The IDP is valid only when carried in conjunction with and acts as a translation of a drivers license. If you are traveling in a foreign country and were to be stopped by a law enforcement officer, your U.S. drivers license and IDP should be presented to the officer. If a citation is issued to you, it will be reflected on the driving record that is with your drivers license.

The United Nations provided official notification to the U.S. State Department indicating that the treaty which applies to Hong Kong at present will continue to apply to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the name given to the territory by China. Such notification should not be misconstrued to mean that China now recognizes IDPs, as the People’s Republic of China has never become a party to the treaty.

Does possession of the IDP/IADP along with my U. S. issued driver’s license override any local laws?

No, even though the IDP/IADP is valid for one year you must adhere to all local laws. For example, in many countries if you take up residence or employment you need to obtain a local license.

An IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license of the traveler. Therefore, if someone from the United Kingdom has a U.K. driver’s license, their IDP must also be issued in the United Kingdom.

I have a U.S. driver’s license, but I am a citizen of another country. Where should I obtain an IDP?

The IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license. In the case of a driver’s license being issued in the United States, the IDP must also be issued in the United States. Contact your nearest AAA office to obtain an IDP.

Since their driver’s license was issued by a U.S. possession, their IDP would also be issued in the United States. Contact a AAA office in the United States, and the IDP can be issued and mailed.

Scanned photographs are not acceptable. Please read U.S. Passport Photo Requirements (new tab) for guidelines. Polaroid type photographs are acceptable. Photographs can be either color or black and white. Photocopies are not acceptable.

I am on active duty in the military and my U.S. license has or is due to expire. Can I apply for an IDP?

Each state has its own provisions for extending the validity of state driving licenses for active duty military. Though valid in a home state, an expired U.S. license held by active duty military may not be valid or acceptable in a foreign country per that country’s driving requirements. See DMV.org (new tab) for state information on renewals, keeping in mind that an IDP is only a translation of the license, not a license to drive. Military applicants must understand the conditions under which an IDP is valid if insisting upon issuance of a permit against an expired U.S. license that may be considered valid in their home state until discharged from active duty. NOTE: If a state DMV allows renewal online or by mail for active duty military personnel stationed out of state, applicants should renew their license prior to issuance of an IDP. Some states will issue a DL236 card to be presented with an expired license to extend validity.

I am traveling to South America, so which permit should I issue?

The International Driving Permit is valid for South America, EXCEPT Brazil and Uruguay. The Inter-American Driving Permit (IADP) must be issued for those two countries.

Geographical Areas/Countries Which Honor International Driving Permits (Convention on Road Traffic, United Nations, Geneva 1949)

• Afghanistan*
• Anguilla*/**
• Antigua*/**
• Argentina***
• Azerbaijan*
• Bahamas Bahrain*
• Bangladesh Barbados**
• Bolivia*/***
• Brazil (Inter-American Driving Permit only)
• Burkina Faso (was Volta)
• Cambodia (was Kampuchea)
• Canada Cape Verde Islands*
• Cayman Islands*
• African Rep. Chad*
• Colombia*/***
• Congo, Rep. of (Brazzaville)
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of (Kinshasa)
• Costa Rica*/***
• Cote d´Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
• Dominica*/**
• Domincan Rep.***
• Egypt El Salvador*/***
• Equatorial Guinea*
• Fiji Finland
• France (including French overseas territories)
• French Polynesia
• Guatemala***
• Guernsey Guinea*
• Guinea-Bissau*
• Guyana Haiti***
• Herzegovina*
• Honduras*/***
• Kazakhstan*
• Korea (Rep.)
• Liechtenstein*
• Mauritania*
• Mexico*/***
• Montserrat*/**
• Mozambique*
• Netherlands
• Netherlands Antilles
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua*/***
• Paraguay***
• Philippines
• St. Kitts & Nevis*/**
• St. Vincent & the Grenadines
• Sao Tome & Principe*
• Saudi Arabia*
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• Switzerland*
• Tajikistan*
• Trinidad & Tobago***
• Turkmenistan***
• United Arab Emirates*
• United Kingdom
• Uruguay (Inter-American Driving Permit only)
• Uzbekistan*
• Vatican City (Holy See)
• Venezuela***
• Western Samoa

* Not party to 1949 Convention: International Driving Permit Honored. **U.S. driver’s license and International Driving Permit recognized on presentation to local police and payment of Special Registration Fee upon arrival. ***Geographical Areas Which Honor Inter-American Driving Permits (Convention on Regulation of Inter-American Motor Vehicle Traffic, Organization of American States, Washington, D.C. 1943) as of January, 2009. If you intend to drive in the following countries, be sure to check INTER-AMERICAN DRIVING PERMIT box page 1: Brazil and Uruguay

While a temporary license is a valid license you should wait until you receive your permanent state license before traveling. Authorities abroad probably will not accept a temporary license.

You need to complete a brief application form (available through this Internet web site, or your nearest AAA office), provide 2 passport-sized photographs with your signature on the back of them, a photocopy of the front and back of your valid U.S. issued driver’s license, and a check or money order for $20 in U.S. funds. If transacting by mail, these items would need to be mailed to a AAA office in the United States. Otherwise, everything can be handled in a single office visit. NOTE: If you are currently overseas you can mail your completed application to the following office and address: AAA/IDP, b1000 AAA Dr., Heathrow, FL 32746 Attn: Mailstop #28

AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Meet the Experts

Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been an advocate for motorists, safer roads and vehicles, better educated drivers and the rights of travelers.

To interview David, contact Ellen Edmonds, 407-444-8011, [email protected]

David Bennett

David Bennett began his career in the automotive industry when he joined AAA in 1986. During his tenure, Bennett has held many positions working directly with the member experience. Most recently, he spearheaded programs designed to simplify the car-buying experience for members as well as authoring and editing over 500 car reviews. Bennett has also served as a mentor for aspiring automotive technicians and technical advisor for AAA’s “Making Sense of Car Care” book. Bennett serves as AAA’s in-house expert on car-buying, warranties and automotive repair and is often featured in national media such as Forbes, USA Today and NerdWallet.

As Manager, Repair Systems, Bennett plays an integral role in the management of AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program, responsible for the curation, flow and distribution of repair facility data for AAA, which is used to identify areas where the repair experience may be enhanced for both members and consumers. Additionally, he is responsible for the creation and promotion of proprietary content intended to educate consumers on a variety of high-interest automotive topics housed on aaa.com/autorepair .

Outside of AAA, Bennett is active in the automotive industry and local community – he is a founding member of the Automotive Executives Association; a participating member of both the Motor Press Guild (MPG) and International Press Association (IMPA); and serves on the Seminole State College of Florida’s Automotive Advisory Board. He also has held ASE Master Automotive Technician status, and certification from the University of Georgia International Institute of Towing and Recovery.

To interview Greg, contact Ellen Edmonds, 407-444-8011, [email protected]

Greg Brannon

Greg Brannon began his career with AAA over 25 years ago as an emergency roadside service counselor. During his tenure, he has held positions in Market Research, Strategy and Plans, Member Relations and Business Markets learning many facets of the work AAA does to provide exceptional service to its nearly 60 million members. This diverse work experience allowed Brannon to develop relationships with OEMs including Lexus, Volkswagen/Audi, Porsche and BMW. Brannon regularly serves as a AAA expert on automotive technology and is frequently featured in the national media, including the Associated Press, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Car and Driver, Automotive News and NPR.

Leading AAA’s automotive industry relations, Brannon has also been a featured speaker at National Transportation Safety Board and National Safety Council events, participated in congressional briefings on automated vehicles and fosters AAA’s relationships with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the Center for Automotive Research, automakers, tier-one suppliers and other industry stakeholder groups. He also regularly provides guidance to the automotive and safety industries, assisting in the development of test plans and industry standards.

In his role as the Director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations for AAA, Brannon oversees all automotive research and testing for the association. Past research projects, designed to inform and educate consumers, include partially automated vehicle technology, advanced driver assistance systems, autonomous vehicles, advanced headlight technology, electric vehicles and evaluations of fuel quality and octane ratings. Brannon’s key focus is building AAA’s technical expertise on emerging automotive issues to help educate and serve the needs of the motoring public.

Outside of work, Brannon is an active drag racer and, a previously nationally ranked sports car racer, serves as a National Hot Rod Association Sportsman Race Advisory Councilmember and volunteers with the Take Stock in Children mentor program. A seasoned automotive enthusiast, having held multiple ASE certifications, Brannon is frequently found under the deck lid of his 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. Brannon holds a B.S. in Business Management and a MBA from the University of Central Florida.

• View Full Bio

To interview Jill, contact Andrew Gross, 202-942-2079, [email protected]

Jill Ingrassia

Ingrassia directs policy and programs for AAA’s national federal and state government relations and traffic safety advocacy teams. She oversees the development and implementation of public policy strategy of concern to AAA members and AAA business operations, including mobility and transportation safety, energy, and intelligent transportation systems and automated vehicles.

Ingrassia has worked on a variety of advocacy and policy initiatives with AAA to help improve safety for the road’s most vulnerable users—children, teens and older drivers. She has represented AAA on a number of coalitions with national transportation and safety organizations, including past Board chairman of ITS America, membership on the Transportation Safety Advancement Group, and past chairman of The Road Gang, an affiliation of transportation professionals.

Before joining AAA, Ingrassia worked as a legislative assistant to former Governor and U.S. Senator Jim Exon of Nebraska. She holds a B.A. from Nebraska Wesleyan University in Spanish and Global Studies.

To interview Jake, contact Andrew Gross, 202-942-2079, [email protected]

Jake Nelson, MPH, MPP

In his current role as Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy & Research for AAA, Jake is an influential communicator who provides thought leadership on issues related to traffic injury prevention. From interpreting fatal crash statistics to assessing solutions to keeping drivers safe, Jake excels at translating complex research into evidence-based policies, research-validated interventions, and easy-to-understand language for the media. Jake has been featured in a variety of national media outlets, from USA Today and the New York Times to appearances on NBC’s Today Show, ABC’s World News Tonight, and The Dr. Oz Show.

As an epidemiologist, Jake considers traffic injuries and deaths an overlooked public health threat to Americans. He applies rigorous research and the sciences of public health to AAA’s public policy development, governmental advocacy and consumer education activities. Jake has developed nationwide advocacy strategies, brokered national partnerships and negotiated strategic alliances to influence consumers and policymakers in an effort to protect those who travel U.S. roads each day.

As the Association’s chief safety expert, Jake regularly works with transportation stakeholder groups, public health practitioners and elected officials at all levels of government. He frequently represents the AAA federation before state policy audiences, Congress and U.S. federal agencies, to persuasively state the case for AAA’s public policy recommendations and evidence-based interventions.

Inducted into the Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health, Jake is a Mid-American Public Health Leadership Fellow alumnus and a member of the National Public Health Leadership Society. He holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, completed his graduate studies in public health at the George Washington University, and in public policy at the University of Chicago. While in Chicago, he was named a McCormick Tribune Leadership Fellow. Jake also holds a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University and has completed the Leadership Development Program through Eckerd College and the Center for Creative Leadership- the largest and most respected global program of its kind.

Prior to joining AAA, Jake managed a state-certified health department in the Chicago area where he directed public health education campaigns, a portfolio of governmental grant work, health-focused research and public health policy support for state and local policymakers. He advised on a wide range of issues from HIV prevention and childhood obesity, to the prevention of substance abuse and heart disease.

Though he began his career as a researcher in the medical field, Jake shifted his focus to applying research to policy development, and honed his skills in the real-world application of data and rigorous academic research to protect and improve the public’s health, and to help people reach their full potential.

To interview Andrew, contact Andrew Gross, 202-942-2079, [email protected]

William Van Tassel, PhD

Van Tassel manages AAA’s national driver training program, providing safety education resources and expertise to AAA clubs and the driving public and Bill has been quoted in The New York Times and USA Today on driver safety and training issues.

Van Tassel has been qualified as an Expert Witness, providing testimony in driving-related legal trials and has published multiple peer-reviewed articles in journals and proceedings related to public health and traffic safety. Van Tassel is also a contributing author of the 2006 edition of Responsible Driving .

Van Tassel previously worked at the US Army’s Safety Center on prevention of privately owned vehicle crashes and as a research associate for the Center for Alcohol and Drug Education Studies at Texas A&M University where he was responsible for oversight of alcohol and drug related research.

Van Tassel has a Ph.D. in Safety Education from Texas A&M University and a Masters in Research Psychology from University of Central Oklahoma.

Van Tassel’s research interests are the Measurement of Alcohol in the Body, Distracted Driving, Effects of Drowsiness on Driving Ability, Advanced Driving Skill Courses. He is a member of National Driver Education and Training Administrative Standards Core Development Team, The Association of National Stakeholders in Traffic Safety Education and serves on the Operator Education and Regulation Committee for the Transportation Research Board (TRB).

To interview Jennifer, contact Andrew Gross, 202-942-2079, [email protected]

Jennifer Ryan

As Director of AAA National’s State Relations department, Jennifer is responsible for identifying national and emerging trends and tracking state legislative and regulatory proposals on a variety of issues that affect the Association, its clubs and its more than 60 million members. Jennifer manages and implements national state-level legislative and public information campaigns on a range of safety, consumer, and mobility issues including teen driver safety, distracted driving, occupant protection, towing, and connected and automated vehicles.

Jennifer is a graduate of the University of Virginia and holds a Masters in Public Administration from George Mason University.

To interview Rhonda, contact Andrew Gross, 202-942-2079, [email protected]

Rhonda Shah

Rhonda Shah is the manager of Traffic Safety Advocacy and Community Impact at the AAA National Office. In her role, she serves as a subject matter expert for the AAA School Safety Patrol and CarFit; programs designed to protect the most vulnerable road users.

From her years as a public health educator, Shah understands the power of grassroots advocacy to propel policy. She has worked with a variety of stakeholders to improve the safety and mobility for children and older drivers. Personal efforts include organizing community outreach events to provide helmets to at-risk youth; instructing new parents on the installation/use of car seats; educating senior drivers on how to increase safety and mobility behind the wheel; and advising on transportation alternatives to maximize personal mobility after driving cessation.

Shah also oversees AAA’s corporate social responsibility portfolio by coordinating a range of activities and initiatives designed to have a positive impact in the local community. This includes working with local NPO’s and serving on the board of Meals on Wheels, Etc.

Outside of work, you can find her at the gym, attending a barre class, or spending time with family and friends. She has a passion for adventure and enjoys travels that include hiking and snowboarding. A Florida native, Rhonda is a graduate of the University of Central Florida and resides in her hometown with her husband.

To interview Paula, contact Ellen Edmonds, [email protected] , 407-444-8011.

Paula Twidale

Paula Twidale serves as senior vice president of AAA Travel, one of North America’s largest leisure travel agencies. Twidale brings more than 35 years of experience to the nearly 60 million-member organization.

Twidale provides leadership and strategic direction for all of the association’s travel services. She creates and manages strategic alliances, maximizing relationships with preferred suppliers in an effort to increase member benefits. Additionally, her responsibilities include guiding the development of innovative technology solutions to support AAA clubs in the delivery of differentiated travel products and services to members.

Twidale most recently served as executive vice president of Collette Vacations, and was the first female board chair of United States Tour Operators Association, a nonprofit professional association that serves as the unified voice of the tour operator industry, protecting consumer interests. In addition, she has been nominated five times as one of the most powerful women in travel by Travel Agent Magazine.

Twidale holds a Bachelor of Arts from Rhode Island College. Additionally, she has completed several executive education programs (including Strategy & Innovation and Executive Leadership) at Harvard Business Continuing Education and MIT Sloan. In the community, Twidale is an active volunteer of Tourism Cares and supports breast cancer awareness. Previously, she served the Rhode Island Chapter of St. Jude Children’s Hospital and was a board trustee for Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, a non-partisan group that provides research aimed at improving state and local government.

To interview Scott, contact Ellen Edmonds, 407-444-8011, [email protected] .

Scott Hammerle

Scott Hammerle joined AAA in 2017 and is currently the Director, Diamond Inspections Program. He oversees a team of professional inspectors who conduct in-person evaluations of nearly 60,000 hotels and restaurants across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Scott is a 25-year veteran of the hospitality industry. He learned the industry from market leaders through 10 years at both Disney and Wyndham, including being selected by the President of Disney Parks Worldwide as a Walt Disney World Ambassador. Scott is also an author and accomplished speaker, having spoken on leadership and customer experience at schools like Notre Dame and the University of Florida, as well as at multiple conferences. He graduated from Stetson University with an MBA as well as receiving his undergraduate degree in Broadcast Communications from Barry University.

To interview Stacey, contact Ellen Edmonds, 407-444-8011, [email protected] .

Stacey Barber

As executive director of Travel, Stacey Barber oversees AAA Inspections & the Diamond Program, travel content development, travel information business administration and communications, the department’s production and project management tasks, as well as the advertising and official appointment sales teams. She has been a technology industry leader for the past 10 years. Prior to joining AAA in July 2015 as managing director of Travel Technology and Data Management, Barber held various executive roles with Travelclick, Lightmaker of America and Darden Restaurants in technology, operations, digital marketing and project management roles. Barber is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a concentration in Management Information Systems.

For more than 80 years, AAA’s professional inspectors have evaluated hotels and restaurants to help travelers make the best decisions using trusted AAA Diamonds travel information. Inspectors visit thousands of hotels and restaurants across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, only awarding Diamonds to properties that pass a rigorous inspection process. They are highly trained professionals, with expertise stemming from diverse backgrounds in the travel and hospitality industries.. Located across the United States and Canada, inspectors are available for media interviews or inspection shadow ridealongs, while maintaining anonymity, in most major markets.

AAA Inspector

To interview Kathleen, contact Andrew Gross, 202-942-2079, [email protected]

Kathleen F. Bower

As senior vice president, Public Affairs, Brand Strategy & Management, Kathleen Bower directs AAA’s public affairs activities for the organization, including government relations, traffic safety policy and programs, association communication, public relations, community relations and international public policy. Bower also serves as an officer on the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s Board of Trustees and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Foundation.

Before coming to AAA, Bower worked on Capitol Hill as a legislative assistant to then-Congressman Bill Nelson. She has a communications background, with a Bachelor of Science degree in public relations from the University of Florida, an MBA from George Mason University and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University in 2016.

How AAA Members Can Save Big Money When Traveling

I f you're a frequent traveler, you're no stranger to all the ways you can save money so you can travel more often. From travel credit card perks to airfare booking strategies , you've probably got it all figured out. However, you might be surprised when we say that if you're not a AAA (American Automobile Association) member, you might be missing out on amazing deals.

AAA is a non-profit organization -- technically a federation of motor clubs -- that is dedicated to enhancing its members' travel experiences throughout the U.S.A. It offers a range of benefits that can significantly contribute to cost savings for your trips while also providing peace of mind while on the road.

Perks range from 24/7 roadside assistance to exclusive discounts on car rentals and hotel stays. However, you won't just get perks for road trips -- AAA will also take to the skies with you with deals on airfare and travel abroad with all-inclusive trips to Mexico , the Caribbean , and beyond.

AAA 'S Membership Tiers Offer Great Value For Travelers

Since it was established in 1902, AAA has reliably served travelers across the United States. Now, with a century of experience, it has become a trusted organization best known for its comprehensive travel services.

AAA offers three main membership levels: Classic, Plus, and Premier, all with incredible perks. The Classic membership is the basic tier, but there's nothing simple about it. This tier still provides all the essential services, such as roadside assistance, $60 dollars toward locksmith services, and access to travel resources. However, it also includes discounts on rental cars, identity theft protection, and expedited passport and travel visa services.

The second-tier Plus membership includes all of that but simply in greater amounts. For example, you get 100 miles of towing (whereas Classic provides 7), emergency fuel delivery that is completely free (including the fuel), along with 50% off European travel guides.

The Premier membership offers the highest level of coverage and benefits and includes everything from the Plus and Classic tiers with even greater discounts. Premier members can expect to receive amazing extras like one-day free car rentals and concierge services for those bougie budget-conscious travelers.

Membership costs will vary depending on your zip code and the level chosen. For example, the Classic tier in California costs around $36 per year but in neighboring Arizona goes up to $65. No matter the cost, considering the potential savings and benefits, the value received should make it worth your while.

Get Great Discounts On Travel With AAA

Through its extensive network of partnerships, AAA members can save a trunkload of money. As a member, you will gain access to a wide range of discounted travel options, including all-inclusive resort or cruise packages or piecemeal -- if you like to book things separately -- hotel accommodations, car rentals, and airfare.

For example, when booking hotel accommodations, AAA members often receive discounted rates that can range from 5 to 10% off the regular prices for hotels chains like Hilton, Best Western, and MGM. This means significant savings on popular hotels and resorts located both in the U.S. and worldwide. You'll even earn loyalty points when you book through AAA , which can be applied towards your next membership renewal.

Similarly, when renting a car, AAA members can benefit from discounted rates (up to 35% on electric vehicles ), free upgrades, and additional perks like fuel discounts with their main partner Hertz or budget car rental companies like Thrifty and Dollar. AAA will even waive the additional driver and young renters fees if you're between the ages of 20 to 24.

AAA Offers Members Expert Travel Planning Support

While all the roadside assistance is great for long road trips, what really makes the organization stand out is that it's actually the largest travel agency in the U.S. Their advisors are available to chat with you in-person or virtually. AAA travel agents won't just help you plan an amazing trip but they can also find you the best deals through their exclusive discounts.

If you're thinking about planning a road trip , AAA also offers their own travel app called TripTik. This is an interactive road trip planning tool that can help you plan out stops along your route for gas and rest stops, restaurants, hotels, and attractions. If you need some inspiration, the app also has 600 pre-planned scenic drives including recommended stops.

For those who enjoy the analog versions of things, AAA is one of the few organizations that still offer paper maps to its members for free. However, if you prefer digital, they haven't forgotten you. You can grab AAA's digital TourBooks which provide access to information about destinations across North America and the Caribbean.

Get Everything You Need To Travel In One Place

Now that you know where you want to go, you just have to get there. Luckily, AAA offices can be your one-stop-shop for (almost) all your official documents.

If you know you have air travel planned soon, and you don't have a passport or need to renew it quickly and/or you need a travel visa, head to your nearest AAA office instead of the post office or passport office. With AAA , you can take your passport photos (at a discount for AAA members) and get your passport and visa application expedited through AAA 's connections with RushMyPassport.

If you're planning to drive while abroad, you may also want to consider grabbing an International Driving Permit (IDP). Since a U.S. Driver's License is not accepted in all countries, an IDP is a surefire way to avoid issues. An IDP can also reduce issues with language barriers and it may be required to rent a car. The best part is that with AAA you can get an IDP the same day you apply for only $20, plus additional (but still discounted) fees for the passport photos required for the document.

Lastly, to be prepared for any eventuality that may occur on your trip, you can also purchase automotive and travel insurance through AAA . They partner with Allianz Global Assistance so members can take advantage of insurance policies that cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, and emergency medical coverage.

Read this next: Safety Items You Should Pack For Your Next Road Trip

MOSCOW - RUSSIA

Aaa cargo - alfa air agency.

Sheremetyevo, Sheremetyevo-2, Business Centre Sheremetyevski, Office 211, 123340 Moscow, Russia

• Phone: +7 495 981-50-11
• Fax: +7 495 981-50-12
• email: [email protected]
• web: www.aaacargo.ru

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+7 495 981-50-12

+7 495 981-50-11

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