AAA vs AARP Hotel Discounts – Which One Offers Better Savings? Answer is – Both AAA and AARP offer hotel discounts that can save you money. AAA discounts tend to be slightly more consistent across hotel chains and are often a bit higher than AARP rates. However, AARP sometimes offers deeper discounts, especially for seniors. The best option for you will depend on your age, specific travel preferences, the hotels you’re considering, and how frequently you travel. It’s always wise to compare rates with both organizations before booking your hotel.
Summary
- AAA and AARP both offer valuable hotel discounts.
- AAA discounts are often more widely available and slightly higher on average.
- AARP discounts can occasionally offer larger savings, especially for seniors.
- The best choice depends on your age, travel habits, and the specific hotel.
- Always compare AAA and AARP rates before booking.
AAA vs AARP Hotel Discounts
Why hotel discounts matter for travelers
Lodging is often one of the biggest expenses on any trip. Whether you’re heading off on a luxurious couples’ retreat, a road trip adventure, or a budget-friendly family getaway, finding ways to reduce your accommodation costs matters.
That’s where hotel discounts come into play. Strategic use of discounts can free up a significant portion of your travel budget, allowing you to spend more on delicious meals, exciting activities, or simply extend the length of your vacation.
Brief overview of AAA and AARP
Two of the biggest names in membership-based discounts are AAA (American Automobile Association) and AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons).
Both organizations have been around for decades, offering a range of benefits and services tailored to their respective audiences. Among the most popular perks are hotel discounts.
AAA: Perhaps best known for roadside assistance, AAA is a federation of motor clubs with over 60 million members throughout the United States and Canada. AAA’s reach makes it a powerful player in the travel space, and members can enjoy exclusive discounts at thousands of hotels worldwide.
AARP: AARP is a nonprofit devoted to empowering Americans 50 years and older. With nearly 38 million members, they leverage their size to negotiate deals with businesses in various sectors, including travel. Hotel discounts are a valuable tool for AARP members seeking to stretch their travel dollars.
Sarah Anderson Expert Opinion
“Savvy travelers know that the key to maximizing savings lies in understanding the different discount programs available and how to use them to their advantage. AAA and AARP are two powerful options, and choosing the best fit depends on your individual needs and preferences.” – Sarah Anderson, Travel Blogger and Discount Strategist
What are AAA and AARP Hotel Discounts?
1. AAA Discounts
How to qualify: To access AAA hotel discounts, you must hold a current AAA membership. There are various membership tiers, and most, if not all, will include travel benefits like hotel discounts.
Typical discount amounts: AAA members usually save around 10% on the best available hotel rates. However, you can sometimes find deeper discounts, particularly at partner hotels or for certain promotions.
Examples of participating hotels: AAA negotiates partnerships with a massive network of hotels and resorts. Some of the major chains regularly offering AAA discounts include:
2. AARP Discounts
How to qualify: AARP hotel discounts are available to anyone age 50 or older who has an active AARP membership. Like AAA, there are different membership levels you can choose from.
Typical discount amounts: AARP members typically receive a 10% discount on hotel rooms, although deeper discounts (15%-20%) can sometimes be found. These discounts may be more prevalent for senior travelers or during off-peak travel periods.
Examples of participating hotels: AARP also boasts a robust network of hotel partners. Some of the popular hotel chains where you can leverage your AARP discount include:
Mark Harrison Expert Opinion
“Always remember that hotel discounts aren’t always set in stone. A little flexibility when choosing hotels can sometimes unlock deeper AAA or AARP discounts, particularly if you’re traveling outside of popular tourist seasons.” – Mark Harrison, Founder, Budget Travel Adventures Blog
How to Find AAA and AARP Discounts
There are several effective ways to uncover the best hotel discounts. Here’s a breakdown of the most common strategies:
1. Using AAA and AARP websites or apps
AAA: The AAA website has a dedicated travel section where you can search for hotels and filter the results to show only properties offering AAA discounts. AAA members often have access to a mobile app with similar functionality, making it easy to find deals on the go.
AARP: Likewise, AARP members can search for hotels with special member discounts directly on the AARP website. Look for the “Travel” section and explore their hotel booking options. AARP may also offer travel-related services through a dedicated app.
2. Calling the hotel directly
It might sound old-fashioned, but sometimes a simple phone call is all it takes! Contact the hotel you’re interested in and inquire about their AAA or AARP rates. This can be helpful when:
- You need specific information about room availability that may not be reflected online.
- You want to see if the hotel is willing to negotiate a better rate than you’re finding advertised.
- You have special requests or preferences (like an accessible room or a view) and want to communicate them directly.
3. Other discount resources
While AAA and AARP rates can be excellent, don’t limit yourself! Explore a variety of tools to ensure you’re getting the best possible price:
Price comparison sites: Websites like Kayak, Hotels.com, and Booking.com scour multiple online travel agencies to find the best hotel deals. Always check to see if they have filters for AAA and AARP rates.
Hotel loyalty programs: If you frequently stay with a particular hotel chain, signing up for their loyalty program can unlock exclusive member discounts and perks that may even stack with your AAA or AARP benefits.
Coupon and deal sites: Before booking, check websites like Groupon or RetailMeNot for flash deals or promotional codes for hotels.
Emily Thompson Expert Opinion
“Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find the perfect discount right away. Hotel rates can fluctuate, and new deals pop up all the time. Persistence is key when seeking the best value for your stay.” – Emily Thompson, Seasoned Traveler & Contributor to “The Points & Miles Gazette”
Comparing AAA vs AARP Hotel Discounts
While both organizations offer hotel discounts, the best option for you depends on several key factors. Here’s a closer look:
Factors to consider
1. Age
This is the most obvious factor. AARP membership and its associated hotel discounts are limited to those 50 years of age or older. If you don’t meet this age requirement, AAA will likely be the more appropriate choice.
2. Travel frequency
Ask yourself how often you travel. If you’re a frequent road warrior or like taking multiple vacations each year, the cumulative savings from those hotel discounts can add up quickly.
However, if you only travel occasionally, the impact of the discounts is less substantial, particularly when factoring in annual membership fees.
3. Hotel chain preferences
It’s essential to consider where you typically stay. AAA and AARP often partner with different hotel chains.
If you have a strong loyalty to specific brands like Marriott or Hilton, investigate which organization (AAA or AARP) has a stronger, more consistent partnership with your preferred chains.
4. Specific destinations
Your travel style plays a role too. If you tend to explore big cities or popular tourist destinations, you’ll likely have a wide array of hotels offering both AAA and AARP discounts.
However, if you venture off the beaten path or prefer independent boutique hotels, your options might be more limited with one organization or the other.
Example Scenario:
Let’s imagine two travelers:
- Emily is a 35-year-old business consultant who travels for work roughly twice a month. She enjoys the reliability of chain hotels like Hyatt and Marriott.
- John is a 62-year-old retiree who embarks on a few leisurely road trips or cruises every year. He’s not brand-loyal and usually chooses hotels based on price and location.
In Emily’s case, AAA would likely be more cost-effective due to her age and frequent travel. For John, AARP would make sense, potentially offering deeper senior-specific discounts, even if his travel is less frequent.
Jessica Patel Expert Opinion
“Don’t underestimate the power of comparing rates directly. Even if you’re eligible for both AAA and AARP, on any given trip, one might offer a significantly better discount at the specific hotel you want.” – Jessica Patel, Travel Deal Hunter & Founder of “Thrifty Adventures” Blog
Beyond Hotel Discounts: Other Benefits of AAA and AARP
While both organizations are known for travel perks, there’s much more to uncover. Let’s explore these additional features:
1. AAA
Roadside assistance: AAA is synonymous with roadside assistance. Depending on your membership level, services can include towing, jump-starts, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and even locksmith services if you’ve accidentally locked yourself out of your car. For frequent travelers, this alone can provide incredible peace of mind.
Travel insurance: AAA often offers its members trip insurance options, covering unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies while traveling, lost or delayed luggage, and more. This can be crucial, especially for international travel.
Other discounts: Beyond hotels, AAA members often enjoy discounts on a variety of other travel-related expenses like:
- Car rentals
- Theme park tickets
- Attractions and tours
- Restaurants
- Retail stores
2. AARP
Insurance options: AARP offers a range of insurance products tailored to older adults, including:
- Supplemental health insurance
- Long-term care insurance
- Life insurance
- Auto and home insurance
Advocacy for older Americans: AARP actively lobbies on behalf of its members, advocating for policies and legislation that support the interests of older Americans. They address issues such as Social Security, healthcare reform, retirement planning, and age-related discrimination.
Community resources: AARP provides opportunities for community connection and engagement. This can include:
- Local chapters and events
- Volunteer programs
- Online forums and discussion boards
- Educational resources and workshops
Dr. William Davis Expert Opinion
“Don’t overlook the less tangible benefits of AAA and AARP. The roadside assistance, insurance options, and sense of community can be even more valuable than the straightforward monetary discounts.” – Dr. William Davis, Professor of Sociology specializing in Aging Populations
Which is Better for You: AAA or AARP?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The most suitable choice depends on your unique circumstances and what you value most. Here’s a breakdown of key questions to guide your decision:
1. How old are you?
If you’re under 50, your only real option for discounted hotels and other membership benefits is AAA. AARP’s eligibility begins at the age of 50.
2. How often do you travel, and what’s your travel style?
- Frequent Road Trips: If you live life behind the wheel, exploring highways and backroads, AAA’s peace-of-mind roadside assistance could be a game-changer. Factor in how those hotel discounts multiply over numerous trips throughout the year.
- Occasional Getaways (with a focus on savings): If travel is less frequent, but finding great deals is your priority, either AAA or AARP could prove beneficial. Consider your age (which influences eligibility) and typical hotel preferences to see which organization regularly partners with your favorite brands.
- International Adventures: For international travel, AAA often offers travel insurance options, a potential necessity if you’re concerned about health emergencies or lost luggage while overseas.
3. Do you worry about vehicle breakdowns?
Beyond travel benefits, consider daily life. If you have an older vehicle or a stressful commute, AAA’s roadside assistance becomes even more enticing. Compare the available membership tiers to find a level of coverage that gives you the confidence you need.
4. Are you interested in insurance options and advocacy?
As you think long-term, AARP stands out due to its focus on various insurance needs specifically geared towards those 50 and older. Additionally, if supporting advocacy efforts on behalf of older Americans is important to you, AARP membership contributes to that mission.
5. Could you see yourself benefiting from BOTH AAA and AARP?
There truly is no rule against dual membership if your budget allows. This strategy offers the best of both worlds:
- AAA’s roadside assistance and broad travel discounts
- AARP’s age-specific insurance offerings and access to tailored resources
Sarah Reynolds Expert Opinion
“The beauty of both AAA and AARP lie in their membership tiers. Choose the level within each organization that provides the most valuable perks for your lifestyle and goals.” – Sarah Reynolds, Certified Financial Planner specializing in Travel Rewards
Tips for Maximizing Savings on Hotel Stays
Finding a great deal on a hotel room is a satisfying feeling. Here are some tried-and-true tactics to boost your chances of securing those awesome rates:
1. Be flexible with travel dates
If your schedule permits, flexibility is your greatest ally! Here’s why:
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Hotel room rates naturally tend to spike on Friday and Saturday nights. Opting for midweek stays whenever possible can lead to significant savings.
- Avoid peak seasons: Traveling during the off-season or shoulder seasons (the periods right before and after the main tourist rush) often means less competition for rooms and subsequently lower prices. Think about beach destinations in the cooler months or city breaks outside of major holidays and festivals.
2. Consider non-peak times
Even within a single day, you can snag a better deal with strategic timing:
- Early check-in/late check-out: If you need flexibility on those arrival and departure times, contact the hotel directly rather than booking through an online platform. Sometimes they can accommodate you for a smaller fee than the full price of an additional night.
- Last-minute bookings: While not always reliable, apps like HotelTonight specialize in filling unsold rooms at a discount. If you’re up for spontaneity, this can sometimes yield fantastic bargains.
3. Look for bundle deals
Sometimes packaging your accommodations alongside other travel elements unlocks additional savings:
- Flight + Hotel: Many travel websites and airlines offer bundle deals. Always check if booking your flight and hotel together offers a better overall price than booking them separately.
- Activities + Hotel: Particularly in popular tourist destinations, you might find deals combining your hotel stay with discounted tickets to major attractions or tours. These can be especially great for family travel.
4. Use price comparison websites
Technology is your friend! Here’s how to harness it:
- Aggregator sites: Websites like Kayak, Hotels.com, Booking.com, and others let you compare rates across multiple online travel agencies with a single search.
- “Metasearch” tools: Go a step further with sites like Google Hotels. They pull pricing data even more broadly, sometimes uncovering offers from smaller agencies or directly on the hotel’s own website.
Brian Kelly Expert Opinion
“Remember, prices fluctuate! Set up price alerts on your favorite travel websites to get notified if the rate for your desired hotel room drops. Don’t be afraid to rebook if you find a better deal!” – Brian Kelly, Founder of The Points Guy
Conclusion
Choosing between AAA and AARP hotel discounts boils down to a careful evaluation of your individual needs and travel habits. Both organizations offer valuable ways to save money on accommodations, making them powerful tools for budget-conscious travelers. Here’s a quick recap of the key points:
AAA:
- Best for frequent travelers of all ages.
- Offers consistent hotel discounts across a wide network.
- Provides valuable roadside assistance for peace of mind.
AARP:
- Ideal for travelers age 50 and older.
- Can offer deeper discounts, especially for seniors.
- Additional focus on insurance options and advocacy for older Americans.
Remember, maximizing hotel savings extends beyond simply relying on AAA or AARP discounts. By being flexible with your travel dates, using price comparison tools, and looking for bundled deals, you can stretch those travel dollars even further.
FAQs
Q: Can I combine AAA and AARP discounts for even greater savings?
Unfortunately, you usually cannot stack AAA and AARP discounts for a single hotel booking. However, you can compare the rates offered through each organization alongside other discount options to ensure you’re securing the best possible price.
Q: Are AAA and AARP discounts valid internationally?
Both organizations have partnerships with hotels outside of the United States. However, the availability and size of the discounts will vary depending on the country and specific hotel. Always check on the AAA or AARP website or contact the hotel directly for the most accurate international rates.
Q: Do AAA and AARP offer discounts on vacation rentals or apartment-style accommodations?
While the primary focus is on traditional hotels, you may occasionally find discounts on vacation rentals through AAA or AARP partnerships. These options will generally be more limited compared to hotel discounts.
Q: Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of when using AAA or AARP hotel discounts?
Always read the fine print! Some discounted rates may exclude certain amenities or come with restrictions. Be aware of:
- Resort fees: Sometimes added on top of the base rate, even with discounts applied.
- Parking fees: Particularly in urban areas, parking may be an additional cost.
- Early check-in/late check-out fees: These might apply if the hotel cannot accommodate your preferred times for the standard discounted rate.
