Your AARP Discount: The Key to a World of Savings
An AARP membership is more than just a card; it's a gateway to exclusive deals designed to enhance your lifestyle and financial well-being. From saving on your next vacation to cutting costs on everyday expenses, a wide array of companies partner with AARP to offer valuable discounts. To take full advantage, it's essential to know which brands participate and how to access their offers.
Travel and Lodging Partners
Whether planning a weekend getaway or a major trip, AARP members can find significant savings on travel-related expenses. The AARP Travel Center, powered by Expedia, is a central hub for many deals. Popular brands offering travel discounts include:
- Hotels: Receive discounted rates at major hotel chains, such as Best Western, Wyndham, and Choice Hotels. Some locations may offer additional perks like late checkout.
- Car Rentals: Save up to 35% on base rates with major rental companies like Avis and Budget. Many offers include free additional drivers or vehicle upgrades.
- Cruises and Packages: Get onboard credit on select Holland America Line cruises or discounts on vacation packages booked through the AARP Travel Center.
- Expedia: Through the AARP Travel Center, members can find savings on flights, hotels, and car rentals.
Dining Discounts at Popular Restaurants
Dining out can be more affordable with an AARP membership. Many restaurants, from fast-casual to fine dining, offer a discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Denny's: Members can save 15% on their check.
- Outback Steakhouse: Enjoy 10% off your meal.
- Landry's, Inc. Restaurants: A 10% discount is available at participating brands like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., McCormick & Schmick's, and Rainforest Cafe.
- Other chains: Many other restaurants, including Bonefish Grill, Carrabba's Italian Grill, and Cinnabon, also provide discounts.
Retail and Shopping Savings
From essential items to gifts, AARP discounts can help reduce your retail spending. Key retail partners include:
- The UPS Store: Get up to 15% off eligible services and 5% off shipping services.
- Walmart+: Members can save on an annual Walmart+ membership.
- Footwear: Brands like Clarks, Crocs, and Dr. Scholl's Shoes offer discounts on their online stores.
- Gifts and flowers: Save on gifts and floral arrangements from FTD and ProFlowers.
Health and Wellness Benefits
Maintaining your health is a primary focus for AARP, with discounts on vision, hearing, and prescriptions.
- Prescription Discounts: The AARP® Prescription Discounts provided by Optum Rx® offers savings at over 66,000 retail pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart.
- Vision Care: Get discounts on eye exams and eyewear at LensCrafters and Target Optical.
- Hearing Aids: Receive discounted rates on hearing products and accessories from partners like HearUSA.
Comparing Popular AARP Discounts
| Category | Partner Examples | Typical Discount | Redemption Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel | Avis, Budget, Best Western, Expedia | Up to 35% off car rentals; 5-10% off hotel stays | Mention AARP, use code, or book via AARP Travel Center |
| Dining | Denny's, Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's | 10-15% off food and non-alcoholic drinks | Show membership card or mention discount |
| Retail | The UPS Store, LensCrafters, Walmart+ | Varies by partner (e.g., 5-15% off, flat savings) | Present card or use online codes |
| Services | Consumer Cellular, AT&T, Norton | Varies by plan (e.g., 5% off monthly service, 10% off plans) | Activate through partner, sometimes linking accounts |
How to Find and Use Your AARP Member Discounts
- Keep your card handy: Always carry your physical AARP membership card, or use the digital version on the AARP Now app, as you'll often need to present it to receive a discount.
- Check AARP's website or app: The most up-to-date and comprehensive list of partners can be found on AARP's official site or via the app. Use the search functions to find nearby offers based on your location.
- Link reward accounts: Some offers, particularly for wireless providers or restaurants, require you to link your AARP membership to a partner's rewards account online to activate the savings.
- Book through the AARP Travel Center: For travel discounts, using the dedicated Expedia portal ensures you get member-exclusive pricing and benefits.
- Always ask: If you're unsure if a business offers a discount, it's always worth asking politely before you pay. Many local businesses also participate in the program.
- Read the details: Before relying on a discount, review the terms and conditions on the AARP website. Some offers may have exclusions, such as not applying to sales items or alcoholic beverages.
Conclusion
From everyday expenses to special purchases, knowing who honors the AARP discount is the first step toward significant savings. The network of participating businesses is vast and constantly updated, covering everything from travel and dining to health and technology. By using your card and checking the latest offers on the official AARP website, you can ensure you never miss out on a money-saving opportunity. Regularly reviewing your member benefits will help you maximize your budget and enjoy your retirement to the fullest. For the latest details on all member offers, visit the AARP official website: www.aarp.org.
