Your Guide to AARP Discounts
An AARP membership is more than just a magazine subscription; it's a gateway to hundreds of savings opportunities. Whether you are planning a trip, dining out, or managing your everyday expenses, your AARP card can help keep more money in your wallet. The key is knowing which partners offer discounts and how to use your membership effectively.
Travel and Leisure Discounts
Travel is one of the most popular areas where AARP members can find substantial savings. From hotels to rental cars and cruises, your membership offers access to exclusive deals.
Hotels and Lodging
AARP partners with numerous hotel chains, allowing members to book stays at reduced rates. Discounts often range from 5% to 20% and sometimes include perks like late checkout.
- Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: Members save 10% on the best available rate at participating properties.
- Choice Hotels: Get up to 10% off at over 7,000 locations worldwide, including brands like Comfort Inn and Econo Lodge.
- Best Western: Save 5% or more off the best available rate at over 4,000 locations.
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts: AARP members can receive up to 10% off the best available rate.
Car Rentals and Transport
For those hitting the road, AARP offers significant savings on car rentals.
- Avis and Budget: Members can save up to 35% on base rates when you Pay Now. Other benefits can include a free car upgrade and an additional driver at no cost.
- Zipcar: Get $40 off an annual membership and a $40 driving credit for new members.
Cruises and Tours
Vacation packages, cruises, and tours also come with special member pricing.
- AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Book cruises through the center for up to $100 onboard credit and vacation packages for up to $349 off.
- British Airways: Members can get $65-$200 off round-trip tickets on transatlantic flights.
Dining and Entertainment Savings
Eating out and enjoying leisure activities is more affordable with an AARP membership.
Popular Restaurants
Many national and local eateries provide discounts, with the most common being 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Denny's: Save 15% on dine-in and takeout orders.
- Outback Steakhouse: Get 10% off your entire check.
- Carrabba's Italian Grill: Receive 10% off dine-in and curbside carryout orders.
- Bonefish Grill: AARP members get 10% off.
Entertainment
From movies to genealogy, your card can open up entertainment deals.
- Regal Cinemas: Receive up to 10% off ePremiere Tickets purchased online.
- Ancestry.com: Get a 30% discount on a one-year World Explorer or All Access subscription.
Health and Wellness Discounts
Staying healthy can be more affordable through AARP's various health and wellness partnerships.
Vision Care
- LensCrafters: Save 20% on frames and 50% on prescription lenses with the purchase of a complete pair.
- Target Optical: Receive $10 off eyewear and 50% off additional pairs of prescription eyeglasses.
- Visionworks: Enjoy $200-$250 off a complete pair of glasses depending on the lens type.
Prescription and Insurance
- AARP Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum Rx: Offers a free prescription discount card with deeper discounts and other benefits for members.
- VSP Vision Plans: Access exclusive vision plans with significant annual savings for members.
- The Hartford: Get special auto and homeowners insurance rates through The Hartford.
Comparison of Key AARP Partner Discounts
| Category | Partner | Typical Discount | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Rental | Avis/Budget | Up to 35% off base rates | Free car upgrade and additional driver |
| Hotels | Wyndham/Choice Hotels | Up to 10% off best rate | Wide selection of brands and locations |
| Dining | Denny's | 15% off check | Available for dine-in and pickup |
| Vision | LensCrafters | 20% off frame + 50% off lenses | Exclusive eyewear savings |
| Tech | Consumer Cellular | 5% off monthly fee + 30% off accessories | Extended 45-day risk-free guarantee |
How to Maximize Your Savings
To ensure you get the most value from your AARP membership, it's helpful to develop a strategy.
- Download the AARP Now App: This app provides instant access to your digital card, daily deals, and a locator for nearby discounts. It can alert you to a deal as you approach a participating store or restaurant.
- Check Before You Go: Before making a purchase, especially a large one like a vacation, check the AARP website or app for current offers. Discounts can change, and new partners are added regularly.
- Link Rewards Programs: For some retailers, like Walgreens, linking your AARP membership to their loyalty program can earn you extra points and benefits.
- Book Through AARP's Portals: For travel, using the AARP Travel Center, powered by Expedia, can unlock special member-only pricing and credits that aren't available elsewhere.
- Utilize Insurance Benefits: If you are in the market for new insurance, exploring AARP's offerings from providers like The Hartford can lead to significant annual savings on your home and auto policies.
Conclusion
An AARP card is a powerful tool for stretching your budget and enjoying life to the fullest. The wide variety of discounts available, from everyday purchases to major travel and healthcare expenses, can provide a return on your modest membership fee many times over. By being proactive and utilizing the digital tools available, you can ensure you never miss an opportunity to save. For more information and a complete list of benefits, visit the AARP official website.
