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If you’re a retiree or senior citizen looking to travel, you may be wondering which travel discount program to join: AARP or AAA. Both organizations offer discounts on travel packages, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and other travel-related expenses. However, each program has its own benefits, costs, and exclusions. In this article, we will compare AARP and AAA travel discounts and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
What is AARP Travel?
AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons) is a non-profit organization that advocates for senior citizens’ issues and offers a variety of services and products to its members. AARP Travel is a program that offers exclusive discounts on travel-related expenses to members who are 50 years of age or older. The program is available in partnership with Expedia.
What is AAA Travel?
AAA (American Automobile Association) is a non-profit organization that provides emergency roadside assistance, travel services, insurance, and other products to its members. AAA Travel is a program that offers discounts on travel packages, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and other travel-related expenses to members.
Benefits of AARP Travel
The benefits of AARP Travel include:
- Exclusive discounts on travel-related expenses
- No booking fees on flights
- 24/7 customer support from Expedia
- Access to member-only travel deals and packages
Benefits of AAA Travel
The benefits of AAA Travel include:
- Discounts on travel packages, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and other travel-related expenses
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Access to AAA travel agents who can help plan and book your trip
- Exclusive discounts on attraction tickets and theme parks
Costs of AARP Travel
The cost of AARP Travel is $16 per year. However, AARP also offers a discounted rate of $12 per year for the first year of membership. You must be 50 years of age or older to join.
Costs of AAA Travel
The cost of AAA Travel depends on the region you live in and the services you choose. In most regions, the basic membership cost is around $50 per year. However, AAA also offers higher-tier memberships that include additional services such as extended roadside assistance and travel insurance.
Exclusions of AARP Travel
The exclusions of AARP Travel include:
- Discounts only apply to certain travel-related expenses
- Not all travel providers participate in the program
- Discounts may not be available during peak travel periods or holidays
- No guarantee of the best prices or rates
Exclusions of AAA Travel
The exclusions of AAA Travel include:
- Discounts may vary by region and travel provider
- Not all travel providers participate in the program
- Not all discounts are available online and may require booking through a AAA travel agent
- No guarantee of the best prices or rates
AARP vs. AAA Travel: Which is Best?
The choice between AARP and AAA Travel ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a low-cost program that offers exclusive discounts on travel-related expenses without many additional perks, AARP Travel might be the best choice for you. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive program that offers discounts on a wider range of travel expenses, as well as additional services like roadside assistance and travel planning assistance, AAA Travel might be the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a member of AARP or AAA to use their travel discounts?
Yes, you must be a member of either AARP or AAA to take advantage of their travel discounts.
Can I join both AARP and AAA?
Yes, there is no restriction on joining both AARP and AAA. However, you will need to pay the membership fees for both programs.
Are AARP and AAA travel discounts available internationally?
Yes, both AARP and AAA travel discounts are available internationally. However, the discounts and participating travel providers may vary by country.
How do I book travel with AARP or AAA?
You can book travel with AARP or AAA online, by phone, or through a travel agent. Some discounts may only be available by booking through a travel agent.
Can I cancel or change my travel plans with AARP or AAA?
Yes, you can cancel or change your travel plans with AARP or AAA, but the policies and fees may vary by provider and type of travel.
In conclusion, AARP and AAA Travel are both great options for seniors looking to save money on travel-related expenses. However, each program has its own benefits, costs, and exclusions, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs. Consider your travel habits, budget, and preferences before making a decision. Happy travels!