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When my neighbor Margaret turned 65, she mentioned she’d finally joined AARP after years of getting their mailings. “I figured it was time,” she said with a shrug. But after she started telling me about all the money she was saving on everything from restaurants to travel, I realized I’d been missing out. At 68, I’d been putting off joining for no good reason other than the name made me feel old.
If you’ve been on the fence about AARP membership or wondering what all the fuss is about, let me share what I’ve discovered since joining two years ago. You might be surprised at how much this organization has to offer, especially when it comes to stretching your retirement dollars.
What Exactly Is AARP?
AARP stands for American Association of Retired Persons, though the organization dropped that full name years ago because you don’t have to be retired to join. Started in 1958, AARP has grown into the largest organization in the country focused on people over 50, with nearly 38 million members. While anyone 18 and up can join, their programs and advocacy work primarily benefit those of us navigating the second half of life.
AARP’s Mission The organization focuses on three main areas: health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment. But what does that mean in practical terms? AARP works to ensure that as we age, we can afford healthcare, have enough money to live comfortably, and maintain our independence and quality of life.
More Than Just Discounts While the member discounts get a lot of attention (and they’re substantial), AARP also serves as a powerful advocate in Washington D.C. and state capitals across the country. With nearly 38 million members, AARP has the political influence to shape legislation on issues like Social Security, Medicare, and prescription drug costs.
AARP Membership: The Basics
Who Can Join? Anyone 18 or older can become an AARP member. You don’t need to be retired, 50, or even thinking about retirement. I know a 25-year-old who joined just for the travel discounts alone.
Membership Costs As of 2025, AARP membership costs:
- $15 for your first year with automatic renewal
- $20 per year after that
- Multi-year options: $55 for three years or $79 for five years
What’s Included Every membership includes:
- A free second membership for anyone in your household
- Subscription to AARP The Magazine (bi-monthly)
- Subscription to AARP Bulletin (monthly)
- Access to hundreds of discounts and benefits
- Digital membership card through the AARP Now app
The Financial Benefits That Actually Matter
Let me be honest – I was skeptical about how much I could really save with AARP membership. But after tracking my savings for six months, I’m convinced the membership pays for itself many times over.
Travel Discounts
This is where AARP membership really shines. Through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, members can save on:
- Hotels and resorts (often 10% or more off)
- Car rentals (up to 35% off with Budget and Avis)
- Cruises (up to $100 off guided vacations)
- Flights (British Airways offers $65-$200 off for members)
Last year, I booked a weekend getaway to Chicago through the AARP Travel Center and was pleasantly surprised to save $180 compared to booking directly with the hotel.
Insurance Savings
AARP partners with major insurance companies to offer member discounts:
- Auto insurance through The Hartford with average member savings of $577
- Home insurance with bundling discounts
- Life insurance options
Pro Tip: The AARP Smart Driver course can qualify you for additional auto insurance discounts with many providers, even beyond AARP’s partners.
Everyday Savings
These are the discounts I use most often:
- Dining: Up to 15% off at over 7,000 restaurants nationwide
- Cell phone service: Significant discounts with select carriers
- Vision and dental: Access to discounted eye exams, glasses, and dental care
- Prescription medications: Discounts at participating pharmacies
Technology and Digital Benefits
AARP has really stepped up its digital game, offering resources that help members navigate our increasingly connected world.
AARP Games and Entertainment
The AARP Games section offers free online games designed to be both fun and brain-healthy. I’ve become slightly addicted to their daily crossword puzzles and word games (eat your heart out, Wordle!).
AARP Rewards Program
This loyalty program lets members earn points for various activities and redeem them for gift cards and experiences. As a member, you earn extra points (50% more than what non-members would earn) on challenging activities like quizzes and learning modules.
Free Digital Resources
- AARP Theater: Free virtual performances and concerts
- Online learning events and classes
- FREE workout videos from fitness experts
- Digital access to bestselling books
Health and Wellness Resources
AARP offers extensive health resources that go far beyond basic information.
Health Information and Tools
- AARP Hearing Center with advice on hearing loss and tinnitus
- Brain health resources and cognitive fitness tools
- Comprehensive Medicare guidance and enrollment help
- Drug interaction checkers and medication information
Fitness and Wellness
- Free online fitness classes and workout videos
- Nutrition advice and healthy recipes
- Access to health screening information and preventive care guides
Publications: More Valuable Than You’d Think
I’ll admit I was initially unimpressed by the idea of receiving magazines in the mail. But AARP’s publications have become some of my favorite reading material.
AARP The Magazine covers celebrity interviews, health and technology features, plus practical tips and reviews. The writing is excellent, and the topics are relevant whether you’re 30 or 80.
AARP Bulletin focuses on news and issues affecting older Americans, including policy updates, fraud alerts, and financial guidance.
Both publications are included with membership, and you can access digital versions immediately upon joining.
Local Benefits and Events
One surprise was discovering how many local AARP events and discounts are available in my community.
- Behind-the-scenes museum tours
- Discounted theater and concert tickets
- Educational workshops and seminars
- Community volunteer opportunities
Check your local AARP chapter to see what’s available in your area.
Is AARP Membership Worth It?
Based on my experience, absolutely. Here’s my honest assessment:
You’ll Likely Break Even If:
- You travel at least once a year
- You dine out occasionally
- You’re interested in advocacy on aging-related issues
- You enjoy the magazine content
You’ll Definitely Come Out Ahead If:
- You’re a frequent traveler
- You need insurance (auto, home, life)
- You want access to health and wellness resources
- You value having a voice in policy discussions
Consider Your Lifestyle If you rarely travel, don’t dine out, and aren’t interested in advocacy or publications, the membership might not provide enough value. But at $15 for the first year, it’s a low-risk way to test the benefits.
Common Misconceptions About AARP
“It’s Only for Old People” Anyone 18 or older can join and access most benefits. Some insurance products have age restrictions, but the majority of benefits are available to all members.
“I Have to Be Retired” Not at all. Many benefits are particularly valuable for working people, and AARP’s focus on issues like Social Security and Medicare affects your future benefits whether you’re currently working or retired.
“It’s Expensive” At $15-20 per year, AARP membership costs less than a dinner out. Most members save far more than the membership fee through just one or two discount uses.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to try AARP membership, here’s what to do:
- Join online at AARP.org for immediate digital access
- Download the AARP Now app for easy access to your digital membership card
- Add a second household member at no extra cost
- Explore the benefits that interest you most
- Set up automatic renewal to get the discounted first-year rate
Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Membership
- Always ask about AARP discounts when shopping, dining, or booking travel
- Keep your membership card with you (physical or digital)
- Sign up for AARP email updates to learn about new benefits and local events
- Use the resources to stay informed about issues affecting your retirement and healthcare
- Explore the free digital resources like games, fitness videos, and online events
- Take advantage of the Smart Driver course for potential insurance savings
- Join AARP Rewards to earn points on activities and purchases
AARP membership isn’t just about preparing for retirement – it’s about getting more value from your money and having a voice on issues that will affect all of us as we age. Whether you’re 25 or 75, the combination of discounts, resources, and advocacy makes AARP membership a smart investment in your present and future financial well-being.
