salehunter.net Hitting the open road is a quintessential American experience. Whether it’s a cross-country adventure, a weekend getaway, or simply needing a reliable vehicle while yours is in the shop, renting a car offers flexibility and convenience. But rental costs can quickly add up. That’s where AARP membership benefits can make a significant difference, offering substantial discounts and perks on car rentals.
AARP, formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and over to choose how they live as they age. While the name might suggest it’s exclusively for retirees, membership is open to anyone 50 and older, and even those younger can access some benefits through a spouse or partner’s membership. One of the most valuable perks of AARP membership is access to exclusive discounts, including significant savings on car rentals.
Unlocking savings: How AARP car rental discounts work
AARP doesn’t directly rent cars. Instead, they’ve partnered with several leading car rental companies to provide exclusive discounts to their members. These partnerships mean you can enjoy savings without sacrificing choice or quality. The discounts typically apply to the base rental rate, which is the cost of the vehicle before taxes, fees, and optional extras like insurance are added. The percentage of the discount can vary depending on the rental company, the time of year, and the specific vehicle you choose.
Partner companies: Your gateway to discounted rentals
AARP has established partnerships with some of the biggest names in the car rental industry. These include, but may not be limited to:
- Avis: AARP members consistently receive discounts of up to 30% off base rates with Avis. Additional perks can include a free upgrade to a higher car class (subject to availability) and an additional driver at no extra cost.
- Budget: Similar to Avis, Budget offers AARP members discounts of up to 30% off base rates. They also frequently offer promotional codes for further savings, and benefits such as adding an additional driver for free.
- Payless: AARP members can enjoy a 5% discount on rentals from Payless. While the percentage discount might seem smaller, Payless often has lower base rates to begin with, making the overall cost competitive.
- Zipcar: For shorter trips or city driving, Zipcar offers a unique car-sharing service. AARP members can receive a discount on the annual Zipcar membership fee, making this on-demand car access more affordable.
- Hertz:**Although not every time, sometimes, AARP members get a discount at Hertz
It’s important to note that the specific discounts and benefits offered by each company can change, so it’s always best to check the AARP website or contact the rental company directly for the most up-to-date information before booking.
Maximizing your AARP car rental benefits
To get the most out of your AARP membership when renting a car, consider these tips:
- Book in advance: Like airline tickets, car rental rates tend to fluctuate based on demand. Booking your car well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, can often secure you a lower price.
- Compare rates: Even with the AARP discount, it’s wise to compare rates between different partner companies. The best deal might vary depending on your specific rental needs.
- Use the AARP website or app: The AARP website and mobile app have dedicated sections for car rental discounts. These resources provide easy access to the latest offers and booking links.
- Present your AARP card: Always have your AARP membership card handy when you pick up your rental car. You may be required to show it to verify your eligibility for the discount.
- Consider optional extras carefully: While the AARP discount applies to the base rate, be mindful of optional extras like insurance, GPS navigation, and child seats. These can significantly increase the overall cost. Evaluate whether you truly need them or if you can find more affordable alternatives (e.g., using your own car insurance or a smartphone navigation app).
- Look for additional promotions: Car rental companies sometimes offer additional promotions that can be combined with the AARP discount. Check their websites or sign up for their email newsletters to stay informed about these deals.
- Read the fine print: Before finalizing your booking, carefully review the terms and conditions of the rental agreement. Pay attention to details like mileage limits, fuel policies, and cancellation fees.
- Additional Driver Benefit:Take advantage that some car rental companies allow AARP members to add an additional driver to their reservation at no extra charge.
Beyond discounts: Other AARP travel benefits
Car rental discounts are just one aspect of the travel benefits offered by AARP. Membership can also provide savings on:
- Hotels: AARP partners with numerous hotel chains to offer discounts on room rates.
- Flights: While not as common as hotel and car rental discounts, AARP occasionally offers discounts or special deals on flights.
- Cruises: AARP members can often find exclusive discounts and onboard credits on cruises.
- Vacation packages: AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia provides a one-stop shop for booking complete vacation packages, often with member-exclusive pricing.
- Travel insurance: AARP offers travel insurance plans designed to meet the needs of older travelers.
Is AARP membership worth it for car rentals alone?
The annual fee for AARP membership is relatively low. If you rent cars frequently, even just a few times a year, the savings from the car rental discounts alone can easily offset the membership cost. However, the true value of AARP membership extends far beyond car rentals. The organization provides a wide range of resources, discounts, and advocacy efforts focused on issues important to people 50 and over, including healthcare, financial security, and social connection.
The discounts can be incredibly substantial. Saving up to 30% on a car rental can translate to hundreds of dollars, depending on the length of your rental and the type of vehicle you choose. This is particularly beneficial for longer trips or when renting premium vehicles.
Considering Alternatives: Other Discount Programs
While AARP offers excellent car rental discounts, it’s worth being aware of other potential discount programs. These might include:
- AAA (American Automobile Association): AAA also offers car rental discounts, often comparable to AARP’s. If you’re already a AAA member, compare the benefits to see which offers the best deal for your specific needs.
- Corporate discounts: Many companies have negotiated discounted rates with car rental companies for their employees. Check with your employer to see if you’re eligible for any corporate discounts.
- Credit card rewards programs: Some credit cards offer travel rewards, including car rental discounts or points that can be redeemed for rentals.
- Military discounts: Active duty military personnel and veterans often qualify for discounts from car rental companies.
- Senior discounts: Even without AARP membership, some car rental companies offer senior discounts to customers over a certain age (often 65 or older). However, these discounts may not be as substantial as the AARP discounts.
Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, the best way to save money on car rentals is to be a savvy shopper. Compare rates from multiple companies, consider different discount programs, and be flexible with your travel dates and vehicle choices if possible. AARP membership provides a valuable tool for reducing car rental costs, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. By combining AARP discounts with other smart shopping strategies, you can enjoy your road trips without breaking the bank.
Remember to always book directly through the AARP-approved links or phone numbers provided by the rental companies to ensure you receive your discount. Don’t rely on third-party booking websites, as they may not always apply the AARP discount correctly.
By leveraging your AARP membership and employing these strategies, you can unlock significant savings on car rentals, making your travel experiences more affordable and enjoyable. So, plan that road trip, explore new destinations, and enjoy the freedom of the open road, knowing you’ve secured the best possible deal on your rental car.
