Accessing AARP Flight Discounts
Getting your AARP flight discount is not as simple as entering a promo code on any airline's website. Instead, you must use specific channels provided by AARP through its partnership agreements. The two primary methods are booking via the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia and utilizing special discount links for British Airways. Understanding these distinct paths is key to unlocking your savings.
Method 1: The AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia
The AARP Travel Center is the most versatile option for finding flight discounts, as it allows you to book flights on numerous airlines, not just one partner. It's essentially a special version of Expedia created for AARP members.
How to Book Through the AARP Travel Center
- Visit the Dedicated Site: Go directly to the AARP Travel Center at
expedia-aarp.com. - Log In: Use your AARP Travel Center login information. Note that this is a separate account from your standard AARP.org account.
- Search for Packages: For flight benefits, you must book a "Flight Package Trip," which includes a flight and at least one additional item, such as a hotel or rental car.
- Receive Your Gift Card: When you book a qualifying flight package, you will receive a $50 gift card via email within a week of your travel start date. This is the primary flight-related benefit for booking via the Travel Center.
Method 2: Booking with British Airways
For travelers planning international trips across the Atlantic, the British Airways partnership offers more substantial, direct discounts on airfare rather than a gift card. These savings are only available for online bookings made through a specific AARP link.
How to Book Through British Airways
- Use the Designated Link: Navigate to the British Airways AARP benefit page on the AARP website and click the exclusive link provided there. This will direct you to the British Airways site with the discount automatically applied during your search.
- Search for Flights: Look for round-trip transatlantic tickets to one of British Airways' many destinations across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
- View Discounted Fares: The discounts will be automatically reflected in the prices you see, varying by class of service:
- $65 off round-trip Economy (World Traveller) and Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus)
- $200 off round-trip Business Class (Club World) fares
- Complete Your Purchase: Follow the standard booking process on the British Airways website to finalize your discounted fare.
Comparison of AARP Flight Discount Methods
| Feature | AARP Travel Center (Expedia) | British Airways | Other Airlines (Delta, AA, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discount Type | $50 gift card on flight packages | $65–$200 off transatlantic round-trips | No direct AARP flight discount |
| How to Book | expedia-aarp.com (online or phone) | Special link from AARP website (online only) | No direct method; book via AARP Travel Center |
| Qualifying Trip | Flight + Hotel or Flight + Car package | Round-trip transatlantic flights | Booked via AARP Travel Center for gift card |
| Destination Focus | Worldwide; any airline listed on Expedia | Transatlantic routes with British Airways | Worldwide, if booked through Travel Center |
| Requirement | AARP member + booking a package | AARP member + booking via specific link | AARP member + booking a package via Travel Center |
| Exclusions | Flight-only bookings are not eligible for the gift card | Basic Economy fares are typically excluded | Dependent on booking method and travel partner |
Maximizing Your Savings Beyond AARP
While AARP discounts are excellent, they can be even more powerful when combined with other travel strategies.
- Combine with Loyalty Programs: Booking through the AARP Travel Center (Expedia) or the special British Airways link still often allows you to earn points with the airline's loyalty program. Always add your loyalty number during booking.
- Use an AARP Rewards Credit Card: Consider using an AARP-branded credit card to earn bonus points on your travel purchases, further increasing your overall savings.
- Book During Off-Peak Seasons: Travel during less popular times to find lower base fares. The AARP discount, especially with British Airways, can then be applied on top of these already reduced prices.
- Check for Limited-Time Promotions: AARP regularly partners with other travel providers for special, limited-time deals. Keep an eye on the AARP Travel Discounts page for new offers.
What if You're Not a Senior?
It's a common misconception that AARP membership is only for seniors. Anyone aged 18 or older can join AARP and take advantage of these benefits. This means you can begin saving on travel long before you reach traditional retirement age, and membership can pay for itself with just one British Airways booking. AARP membership is an investment in your future and current well-being, including your ability to travel and explore the world. You can learn more about all member benefits by visiting the official AARP website: AARP Member Benefits.
