Discover how being an AARP member before your 50s can unlock a treasure trove of discounts and benefits, proving that age is just a number when it comes to savings.

The Misconception about AARP

Every year, like clockwork, membership invitations from AARP find their way into your mailbox. Most individuals under 50 either scoff, laugh nervously, or cry, dismissing the offer with a defiant “not yet” as they toss the paperwork into the recycling bin. After all, AARP feels like a club meant exclusively for your grandparents—those lovely folks bargain-hunting in the aisles of grocery stores or cozying into early dinners just to snag those sweet discounts. But what if I told you AARP might actually be for you, even if you’ve still got a decade or two before the big five-oh?

Anthony Miyazaki, a professor of marketing at Florida International University, has been an AARP member for over a decade. He emphasizes the hidden gems of AARP membership, noting, “Many people don’t know that you do not need to be retired to be a member. People under 50 can join AARP and take advantage of unique benefits that aren’t restricted by contracts or law.”

So, before you toss that invitation into the bin again, consider this: even utilizing a single benefit could save you enough cash to cover the entire annual membership fee of just $12.

Who Can Join AARP?

Let’s clear up a common misconception: AARP stands for American Association of Retired Persons. While the name might suggest it’s a club solely for retirees, that simply isn’t the case. Membership is available to anyone aged 18 and up. Yes, you read that right! You can sign up straight out of high school and start saving long before you’re eligible to sip tea with the grandkids.

For the price of a couple of fancy coffees each year, you get access to AARP’s vast pool of discounts on everything from restaurants to travel. Often, the savings could even outweigh the cost of your membership, making this an investment too good to overlook.

Let’s Talk Discounts: What AARP Offers

AARP offers a staggering array of discounts that can benefit both young, savvy shoppers and seasoned travelers alike. Below, we dive into the most rewarding perks AARP members enjoy.

AARP Car Rental Discounts

Renting a car? AARP members can save up to 35% on base rental rates with Avis Budget Group by selecting the Pay Now option when reserving. Opting for Pay Later? You still get a fantastic 30% off. To sweeten the deal, AARP members earn a 3% credit on future rentals and enjoy free upgrades on car rentals. Plus, you’ll find helpful discounts at other car rental services, like Zipcar and Budget Truck Rental.

Discounts on Flights and Travel

Travel enthusiasts, rejoice! AARP has partnered with Expedia to make booking a breeze while unlocking exclusive discounts. In addition to these member benefits, AARP members can score up to $200 off flights with British Airways for round-trip transatlantic tickets. And let’s not forget the tasty $50 gift card bonus that comes with booking your travel through AARP’s Travel Center.

Fuel and Auto Discounts

Saving at the pump is no small feat, but AARP members earn extra rewards when linking their ExxonMobil Rewards+ account with their AARP membership. Gas discounts, roadside protection plans, and auto insurance discounts mean members can fill up their tanks without draining their wallets.

Hotel Discounts

When planning your next weekend getaway, AARP members can save at nearly 7,500 Choice and Wyndham hotels, who offer exclusive discounts and perks like late checkouts. Combine hotel reservations with flight bookings through the AARP Travel Center, and you might even score extra bonus gift cards.

Dining Discounts

Enjoying a nice meal doesn’t have to break the bank. AARP members enjoy discounts at various restaurants, from Auntie Anne’s to the classic Denny’s. And let’s not forget the local benefits; just type in your ZIP code to uncover nearby eateries offering discounts to AARP members.

Entertainment Discounts

For the entertainment buffs, AARP offers significant savings on streaming services like Paramount+ and access to local attractions at discounted rates. Even film lovers can find camaraderie through AARP’s Movies for Grownups program, featuring online showings complete with an interactive chat feature.

Health and Wellness Discounts

Maintaining health shouldn’t come at a cost: AARP provides members with discounts on various health products and services, from dental insurance to prescription medications at pharmacies like CVS.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a high school graduate curious about perks or a busy thirty-something looking to save on travel, AARP has a wealth of benefits that can make life just a bit more affordable and enjoyable. Membership brings a sense of community, along with the sweet satisfaction of saving money. So even if you’re nowhere near retirement, consider becoming an AARP member—it might just be the best decision you make before you hit 50!