AAA Travel Tips & Articles

FAQs

Does AAA still give TourBooks?

Since 1926, AAA members have trusted the travel information in AAA’s free TourBook guides to help them plan their most memorable vacations. Now you can access AAA’s expert travel advice in an eco-friendly format, available on any device including your smartphone, tablet or desktop.

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What does AAA travel do for you?

An AAA membership can save you money on a wide variety of travel purchases, including hotels, rental cars, travel insurance, entertainment tickets, and cruises. Members are also able to take advantage of benefits like travel planning services and currency conversion

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Can I order travel books from AAA?

AAA Members can order TourBook Guides or maps for delivery by mail. Simply fill out the online form. This service is exclusively for AAA Members. Please allow 8-10 business days for processing.

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Can I get paper maps from AAA?

AAA maps. AAA members get free printed maps for the U.S., North America regions and provinces, all 50 states, most major cities, specialty maps, and more. The AAA Map Gallery has more than 400 digital maps of metro areas, national parks, and key destinations to download or print.

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What is a AAA TripTik?

If you’re a member, stop by your local AAA office. AAA’s team of knowledgeable travel professionals will create a TripTik Travel Planner routing for you, provide information on vacation packages, help you find the best travel deals and even help you rent a car for the trip.

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Does Expedia give AAA discounts?

Online travel agencies like Expedia and Priceline don’t make AAA rates available on their websites, so you will have to use the ?road less traveled? to find your discounts.

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What paper maps Does AAA have?

Wherever your travels take you, take along maps from the AAA/CAA Map Gallery. Choose from more than 400 U.S., Canada and Mexico maps of metro areas, national parks and key destinations. Maps can be downloaded or printed in an 8 1/2″ x 11″ format.

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Can I still get paper maps from AAA?

AAA still offers TripTiks, not only as a paper map through mail order and branch offices but online and on the mobile app. The app highlights Triple A® diamond-rated hotels and restaurants, directions, attractions and more, with information from AAA travel editors.

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Where can I find printable maps?

The National Atlas offers hundreds of page-size, printable maps that can be downloaded at home, at the office, or in the classroom at no cost.

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Is maps or Google Maps better?

Google Maps is the clear winner for the amount of data present and available. It sources its vast collection of information gathered from businesses, websites, users, and more. Apple Maps has a lot of data too, but even if it uses crowdsourced data similar to Google, it isn’t sourcing from as many locations.

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Is there a better map than Google Maps?

MapQuest is another of the great Google Maps alternatives, especially if you use public transportation for commuting. It will let you compare local transportation services for your route, like Uber or car2go, and also book cars right from the app.

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AAA Travel Tips & Articles

AAA Travel Tips & Articles iStockphoto.com/izusek AAA Travel Know Before You Go Travel Tips AAA Travel COVID-19 continues to challenge the travel industry and so many who are eager to travel. AAA urges travelers to work with an experienced travel agent who can alleviate stress by managing cancellations and re-booking travel arrangements. Your AAA travel agent provides you peace of mind by:• Informing you about testing, vaccine, document and mask requirements for your specific trip whether it is a hotel stay, a tour to a specific destination or a cruise.• Providing information on where and when to obtain a COVID-19 test before you leave home or before you return home from your final destination.• Matching the right travel insurance that meets your specific needs and budget.• Assisting with unexpected delays or changes that may occur during your trip.• Advocating on your behalf when there is a need to cancel or reschedule travel due to situations beyond your control.To help you navigate travel in this new environment, AAA’s travel experts offers the following travel tips and things to know before you go. Read More iStockphoto.com/Choreograph 7 Best Travel Tips for Families AAA Travel Editor Sherry Mims Planning efficiently is hard to do even on your own—much less with multiple family members. Here are some things to do to make traveling to a destination easier on everyone. Read More iStockphoto.com/monkeybusinessimages How to Travel with a Group (and not go crazy) Travel is the perfect way to build memories that will last a lifetime. But even the closest families or friend groups might find traveling together a bit of a battle. There’s nothing like a trip to magnify our personality traits—both the good and the irritating. That said, experiencing a new place or simply getting away with the ones you love most is worth the bumps in the road. Below are a few ways to tackle group travel’s biggest obstacles before they even happen. Read More iStockphoto.com/LuapVision 7 Reasons Why You Should Use a Travel Agent to Book Your Next Trip AAA Travel Editor Laurie Sterbens If you love to travel, dreaming of your next trip and planning it can be almost as much fun as the trip itself. While the internet has made researching destinations and booking a trip easier and more accessible than ever, the many options for flights, cruises, hotels and tours can overwhelm even the savviest of travelers. Add to that the new and ever-changing travel restrictions related to the pandemic and suddenly your vacation can go from dream to dread! If your plans include traveling in the near future, you may want to consider working with a travel agent. Now more than ever, these travel pros can work their magic to help you plan your trip and keep everything running smoothly. Here, AAA Travel Agents share some of their top reasons to consider working with an agent. Read More iStockphoto.com/FamVeld The Best Quick and Dirty Tips for Traveling with Kids If you have kids, you don’t have a lot of time to read. My pet peeve is a long-winded…

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AAA Travel Guides

AAA Travel Guides Trip planner source for U.S. and world travel Where in the world are you going on your next trip? Whether you’re planning to visit popular U.S. travel destinations, explore national parks, sightsee in Europe or bask on a Caribbean beach, travel guides from AAA – one of North America’s largest travel agency networks – provide expert insight about where to go, how to get around, what to do and see, and what not to miss. These vacation planners offer suggested itineraries, local transportation details, event schedules, passport and visa information, and more to help you best know how to plan a trip without missing anything along the way. Popular AAA Travel Guides Top Destinations in

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5 Essential Travel Tips for 2022 – AAA

Open-source framework for publishing content iStockphoto.com/YakobchukOlena 1. Plan Ahead and Be as Flexible as Possible If you haven’t taken a trip in a while, then you are probably feeling a bit overwhelmed. I get it. Travel, in general, can feel this way sometimes. This is why understanding what resources have improved and what has been introduced lately can alleviate some of your worries — and you’d be surprised how much has changed! Did you know, for example, that some major airlines have digitized a lot of their pre-travel processes? Many airlines have increased their contactless experiences even further, so that by the time you get to the airport, everything from your passports to your vaccination cards to your COVID-19 test results have already been uploaded and approved online, helping to speed up your check-in process and reducing your time in line. This is the case for most points of contact now, from renting a car to checking in to some hotels. Before booking, make sure that you have the necessary apps downloaded, and, if necessary, just give yourself a little extra time for flexibility around crowds. Also, don’t worry too much about booking tours or general attraction tickets too far in advance (unless, of course, they are for high-demand experiences, such as Broadway tickets or theme parks’ exclusive attractions!). Sometimes too much planning can ruin the vibe of spontaneity, which is always fun to keep in mind. iStockphoto.com/dima_sidelnikov 2. Know the Local Rules for Your Intended Destination In this day and age, every country has a different set of rules and restrictions for travel. On top of that, these rules often change from month to month. For example, if you plan to visit Italy, know that you cannot bring just any old face mask. Italy requires either FFP2 or KN95 masks for indoors, and you must show your vaccine card at most places. But then again, by the time you read this, who knows what changes may have taken place! But please, don’t add more stress by just guessing and going. In fact, I recommend leaning in for a helping hand, especially if keeping track of all the rules feels overwhelming. For example, use a travel advisor! They do more than just book travel, keeping track of all the moving parts during your trip so you just get to relax. It feels like quite the luxury, something this working mom can certainly appreciate! I also recommend checking with the U.S. embassy or consulate in your destination. They should all have an up-to-date COVID-19 information page. While you’re there, you should also enroll in their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This program allows you to receive up-to-date information via email and provides the nearest U.S. embassy with your emergency contact information. iStockphoto.com/Daisy-Daisy 3. Book Refundable Travel When you begin to book your trips, check the refund policies. Of all my essential travel tips for 2022, this is one of the most important. It’s better to pay a little more to be able to cancel, should…

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7 Best Travel Tips for Families – AAA

Open-source framework for publishing content Arrange Keep documents such as passports close but where they won’t fall out, and use tags for luggage and objects that might be easily lost. Plastic bags can be repurposed for not only trash but also shoes or wet clothing. Family members flying together should adhere to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) liquids rule, if applicable, and store items in a quart-size zip-top bag. Label medications appropriately. Baby food including breastmilk of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) is allowed. Separate these from your baggage, and notify a TSA agent prior to the security screening. Carry Incorporate a few redundancies because no one wants to run out of clothes, diapers or wipes at an inconvenient time. Babies and younger children will need additional clothing changes and products. (Go ahead and put some extras in for yourself as well.) In order to maximize space for clothing, consider neutrals and items that mix-and-match well together. If a child is big enough, themed backpacks or suitcases let them feel involved in the process and give everyone more space. Remember to put a change of clothes for each person in a carry-on in case of lost luggage. Consult Seek advice from a AAA Travel professional. You’ll get some extra planning help, including any relevant AAA TourBook® and TripTik® Travel Planner. Single parents or guardians traveling with children should ask what documentation, such as a letter of permission or medical proxy, are needed. Many AAA offices also provide notary services, International Driving Permits (IDPs) and attraction tickets. Members who are renting a car through Hertz should request a complimentary infant car seat or toddler booster seat. Eat Prevent a “hangry” mood by bringing several kinds of snacks as well as a bottle or sippy cup to fill with water, milk or juice. (Microwave steaming bags to sterilize bottles and accessories also are good to bring.) If you are flying with little ones, takeoff offers the perfect opportunity to feed them to prevent the inevitable popping sensation when the air pressure changes—a major reason for crying. Be advised some airlines require mothers to use a forward-facing seatbelt attachment for infants, which makes breastfeeding impossible during those takeoffs and landings. iStockphoto.com/damircudic Entertain In addition to bringing your child’s stuffed animal or lovey, think about adding a surprise. One great option is a coloring book with mess-free markers that won’t appear on surfaces other than the specialty paper. (You can find these at most bookstores and online retailers.) Think twice about bringing something with all the bells-and-whistles unless it doesn’t make noise; your fellow travelers will thank you. Plan Does your child shine with each sunny morning, or are you hoping he or she sleeps? Work with that schedule if you can afford it. Those planning overnight or red-eye flights with an infant should request a bulkhead seat and bassinet—mostly available on a first-come, first serve basis. Plan bathroom breaks when you can, especially prior to boarding. Drivers should allot extra time for stops on road trips. If a child’s small enough, bring along training pants even if the child is potty trained, in case of anxiety-related accidents. Relax Would you plan differently if you knew you’d encounter a delay or cancellation? Consider withdrawing a little extra money from the ATM, and then relax, knowing that you can grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant, find fun things to do or stay at a hotel if necessary. Responding in a calm way makes it easier on you and your family. (People also may be more likely to help.) Ask a AAA Travel professional for advice on travel policies, reservation changes and even travel insurance to ensure a relaxing experience. Start Your Next Vacation with AAA AAA Travel provides peace of mind when you travel—before, during and after your vacation! Members enjoy the advantages of membership including exclusive benefits, savings, map routing and travel planning, plus additional travel needs such as AAA Travel Guides, TourBook® guides, passport photos, International Driving Permits and travel insurance. Your next vacation starts with AAA—your complete travel solution. Visit AAA.com/Travel.

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12 Packing Tips for Any Trip – AAA

Open-source framework for publishing content First and foremost, give yourself plenty of time to pack. It’s a good idea to start planning 2-3 weeks ahead of time. Whenever you think of something you’ll need, jot it down or make a list on an app. Even better, leave your suitcase where you can see it and throw things into it during the weeks leading up to your trip. iStockphoto.com/gvictoria Next, create a travel checklist. On the list, write down your outfit for each day of your trip. Plan on wearing neutrals like camel, navy and black; if you like to wear color, a scarf or jewelry does the trick nicely. And remember, dark colors don’t show spills as much as light colors do. iStockphoto.com/Creative-Family Pack an extra phone charger and a portable power bank. It’s easy and fun taking photos for Instagram with your smartphone, but you can wear your battery down quicker than you may realize. And trying to find an outlet in a public place to charge your phone when your battery is at 4% power is almost impossible. Bring travel sizes of grooming items like toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant, or fill up little empties with your favorite brand to save valuable space in your suitcase. Stash an empty water bottle in your carry-on that you can fill at water fountains. This way you won’t have to throw away unfinished bottled drinks as you go through the TSA security screening line or wait for the flight attendant to bring you a beverage. Put shoes in thin plastic bags like a grocery bag or dry cleaning bag to keep them from touching your clean clothes. Pack footwear and other heavy things at the bottom of your suitcase to keep your clothes from wrinkling. iStockphoto.com/Svetlana-Cherruty Invest in a set of packing cubes to keep items separated. It will be much easier to find things in your luggage or duffel bag and the cubes keep your neatly folded or rolled clothes from wrinkling. Speaking of rolling clothes, many travelers firmly believe it’s the best way to keep your garments crease-free. Give it a try and see how you like the results. iStockphoto.com/PeopleImages Tuck a fabric softener sheet into your suitcase to keep your clothes smelling fresh. iStockphoto.com/Elke Meitzel Be prepared for bad weather and pack proper gear. If you find yourself in a sudden thunderstorm, you’ll be glad you brought a mini umbrella and a cheap plastic rain poncho. Nataliiap/iStockphoto.com Throw in some scented soap to add a touch of familiarity to your bath routine. Use a favorite scent to make you feel more at home and relaxed at the end of a long day of exploring your destination. Stow necessities in your carry-on. This may seem too obvious, but medicine, expensive tech equipment, jewelry and essential toiletries are things you don’t want to lose and should keep close at hand. iStockphoto.com/dlgltaloher Download the AAA.com app, where you’ll find detailed information about hotels, restaurants, gas stations and attractions as well as maps, directions, approved AAA auto repair facilities and roadside service. In addition, you can search for nearby savings with AAA Discounts & Rewards®. AAA Travel provides peace of mind when you travel—before, during and after your vacation! Members enjoy the advantages of membership including exclusive benefits, savings, map routing and travel planning, plus additional travel needs such as AAA Travel Guides, TourBook® guides, passport photos, International Driving Permits and travel insurance. Your next vacation starts with AAA—your complete travel solution. Visit AAA.com/Travel.

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Travel Advice for 2022: What AAA Wants You to Know …

Travel Advice for 2022: What AAA Wants You to Know Before You Go WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 19, 2022) — So far this year, flight cancellations, wintery weather and the COVID-19 omicron variant have all combined to create the perfect storm for travelers. However, AAA’s travel advice makes it possible to travel in the pandemic without losing your mind or your money. What to Know Before Traveling in 2022 Anticipate the expenses associated with delays and cancelations including the possibility of having to stay longer if stranded. Pack N95 or KN95 masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and disposable gloves in your carry-on and make sure it is easily accessible. Purchase travel insurance that specifically provides coverage for travel interruption and additional expenses due to COVID-19. Notify credit card providers of your travel details (specify location and duration) to reduce the risk of frozen cards due to unusual activity. Have photos of your vaccination card and other important documents (like your passport) on your phone as a backup. Understand your destination’s COVID-19 restrictions and requirements including if you will need to take a test ahead of leaving and/or returning home. If so, make an appointment for a COVID-19 PCR test at least one month before departure and make sure the date of your results adheres to the timeline set by your destination (i.e. 1 day, 3 days). AAA suggests requesting a QR code from the PCR tester since more destinations require this. What to Know about Travel Agents: They’re Back in Style The internet gave travelers the independence to book their flights, cruises, hotels, tours, rental cars, etc., yet it also forced them to go it alone when something went wrong. As recent events have shown, travelers benefit from having an expert in their corner when all or part of their trip is delayed or canceled without much notice. Another bonus, if you are a AAA member, the services provided by a travel agent are a member benefit. A trusted travel agent can: Save you time, money AND stress by handling the details, researching any travel restrictions or changes and coordinating plans within your travel group. Provide advice and advocate for you before, during and after a trip. Their extensive knowledge, training, expertise and experience help you better understand the current landscape, which at times is complicated. Match the right travel insurance that meets your specific needs and budget. Advocate on your behalf when you need to cancel or reschedule travel due to situations beyond your control. Quickly find alternative flights or accommodations for you if you find yourself stranded in a crowded airport. What to Know about Travel Insurance: It Protects Your Trip AND Your Wallet The days of skipping this part of travel planning are over. AAA recommends purchasing travel insurance, including flight protection, when booking a trip to cover unexpected delays or trip interruptions. There are a variety of policies to choose from depending on the type of trip, destination and mode of travel. The expertise of a travel agent can guide you on the best options, including if specific destinations require visitors to carry travel insurance. Insurance may add a little to the trip’s overall cost, but the peace of mind it buys is priceless. What to Know When Your Flight is Grounded In the last several weeks, travelers have faced daily flight delays and cancellations due to wintery weather and airline staff shortages, including those caused by the COVID-19 omicron variant….

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How to Prepare for a Road Trip – Your AAA Network

How to Prepare for a Road Trip Hitting the open road is a traveler’s dream. You get to decide where and when you want to go, how far you want to travel, what you want to see – it’s a freedom unlike any other form of traveling. However, that doesn’t mean that simply getting up and going is the best course of action. A significant amount of planning and preparation should go into any road trip you take. Here’s how to prepare for a road trip so that your next highway adventure is as carefree as you imagined. How To Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip Get Your Car Checked Beforehand  Your road trip can be over before it starts if your car is not up to the task. Before embarking on your journey, bring your car to an auto repair center for a thorough inspection. Check that tires are properly inflated and in solid condition, fluids are topped-off or changed if they are dirty or contaminated, radiator and cooling system are in proper operation, and belts and hoses are in good shape. If your car has a spare tire, make sure it is properly inflated and in working condition. All these steps are relatively easy and inexpensive. But if you wait until something breaks or goes wrong, it could lead to a costly repair. While You’re Gone Preparing your car for a road trip could also mean the cars you are leaving behind. If your road trip means keeping another vehicle at home, especially for more than a month, consider using a battery tender. These devices transfer power from an AC outlet to the car’s battery to keep it fully charged. It is also a good idea to fill your gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer, fill fluids and tires to appropriate levels, and remove anything that might attract critters, such as beverages (even water), snacks and pet food. Covering your car can protect the paint and prevent stains while you’re away. When you return from your trip, start the vehicle and drive it gently for several miles. Then have your repair shop look it over. More Ways to Prepare for a Road Trip Plan for an Emergency No matter how much preparation you put into your trip, emergencies can still arise. And when they do, you’ll want to be ready. In addition to having AAA Roadside Assistance on call, you should also have proper supplies on hand. Certain items you should pack are a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, jumper cables, motor oil, radiator fluid, nonperishable food, drinking water, blankets and a roadside emergency kit with flares and flashlight. Keep a lug wrench and jack in the car in case you need to change a tire. If your vehicle does not come with a spare tire (around 30% of new cars do not), consider buying one. On a long car trip, a flat-tire kit may not be enough. Make sure all your emergency supplies are easily accessible. Having them packed away deep within your car won’t help…

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