Evaluating the Value of AARP Travel Discounts
The decision of whether an AARP membership is a good investment for travel hinges on your personal travel habits and how well you utilize the benefits. While often associated with retirees, AARP membership is available to anyone aged 18 and older, expanding its potential audience far beyond traditional expectations. The core of AARP's travel benefits comes from its partnerships with major brands, offering members exclusive access to a range of discounts.
Partner Discounts for Accommodations
One of the most used benefits for travelers is the array of hotel discounts. AARP members can secure savings at thousands of properties worldwide by booking through the dedicated AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia or directly with partner brands.
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts: Members can receive up to 10% off the best available rate and a late checkout of 2 p.m., when available. The discount applies to a wide range of Hilton properties, including DoubleTree and Embassy Suites.
- Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: AARP members can save up to 10% off the best available rate at participating Wyndham properties. Some properties also offer additional perks.
- Best Western Hotels & Resorts: AARP members can get at least 5% off the standard rate at Best Western hotels, or opt for a reward point bonus instead.
- Choice Hotels: This partnership can yield up to 10% off stays at Choice Hotels, including brands like Comfort Inn and Quality Inn.
These discounts can be especially valuable for longer stays or multiple trips, where the savings quickly surpass the annual membership fee.
Significant Savings on Airfare
For those who fly, the airfare benefits can be particularly compelling. While general AARP deals exist through Expedia, one specific partnership offers the most substantial savings for international travel.
- British Airways: AARP members can receive significant fixed-dollar discounts on eligible round-trip flights booked directly through British Airways' AARP portal. These discounts can be $65 off economy and premium economy fares, and up to $200 off business class fares. For a single international trip, this benefit alone can more than cover several years of membership fees.
- AARP Travel Center: Booking a flight package (flight plus hotel or car) through the AARP Travel Center can net a $50 gift card.
Car Rental Advantages
Car rentals are a major travel expense where AARP can deliver solid savings. Partnerships with top rental companies provide both percentage-based discounts and extra perks.
- Avis & Budget: Members can save up to 35% on base rates with Avis and Budget. Paying in advance typically offers the best rate.
- Extra Perks: Benefits often include a free additional driver and vehicle upgrades, depending on availability.
It is important to note, however, that some travelers on community forums have reported finding better rates by shopping around and comparing prices with non-member rates, as the best deal is not always guaranteed.
Cruises, Packages, and Beyond
AARP's travel perks extend to other aspects of vacation planning, providing a more comprehensive travel solution.
- Cruises: Discounts and onboard credit of up to $100 can be found for cruises booked through the AARP Travel Center.
- Vacation Packages: Members can save hundreds of dollars on vacation packages that bundle flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Roadside Assistance: AARP members can get a 20% discount on Allstate Roadside services, offering peace of mind during road trips.
AARP Travel Discounts vs. Other Options
To determine if an AARP membership is worth it for you, it's essential to compare its offerings with other alternatives. Here is a table comparing AARP's general travel offers with a common competitor, AAA, and other options.
| Feature | AARP Membership | AAA Membership | Direct Booking/Comparison Sites |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~$12-16/year | Varies by tier and location, typically higher | Free to use, but discounts vary |
| Hotel Discounts | 5-15% off select chains (Hilton, Wyndham) | Discounts at many hotels, specific % varies | May find sales or advance purchase rates |
| Car Rental | Up to 35% off Avis/Budget; free add'l driver | Discounts at various companies; includes roadside assistance | Aggregator sites compare rates; no consistent discount |
| Flights | Significant fixed-dollar savings on British Airways; package savings on Expedia | Limited flight discounts | Find deals by comparing sites; requires effort |
| Roadside Assistance | 20% off Allstate plans | Included with many memberships; a core offering | Varies based on personal auto insurance |
| Additional Perks | Dining, entertainment, passport services | Maps, trip planning, member-exclusive events | Depends on the booking platform or provider |
| Best For | International travel (British Airways), occasional travelers who book with partners | Frequent road travelers who prioritize roadside assistance | Those who prefer to hunt for the absolute lowest price every time |
For many travelers, a combination of tools may offer the most comprehensive savings. However, for those who regularly use AARP's partner brands, the membership often provides a solid, reliable set of discounts.
Maximizing Your AARP Travel Savings
- Compare Before You Book: Always check the AARP rate against other online deals, including those on general booking sites or through alternative memberships like AAA. The AARP rate is not always the lowest, especially during special promotions.
- Use the Right Portal: To get the British Airways discount, you must book through the specific AARP link on their website. Similarly, for some Expedia benefits, using the AARP Travel Center is required.
- Look for Packages: Combining flights, hotels, and car rentals through the AARP Travel Center can sometimes yield additional gift card benefits or better overall package pricing.
- Combine with Loyalty Programs: AARP discounts can often be combined with hotel and airline loyalty programs, allowing you to both save money and earn points or status.
Conclusion
So, is AARP worth it for travel discounts? The answer is a resounding yes for many, particularly those who take at least one significant trip per year. With a low annual membership fee, the British Airways discount alone can provide a massive return on investment. Even without international travel, the consistent savings on partner hotels and car rentals can easily offset the cost. The key is to be an informed consumer and actively leverage the benefits provided. Comparing rates and booking through the correct portals ensures you get the most out of your membership and save money on the elements of your trip that would be purchased anyway. Visit the official AARP Membership Benefits page to explore the full suite of discounts and start planning your next journey with confidence.
