AARP’s Best-Kept Secrets: 15 Discounts You’re Probably Not Using (But Should!)
You pay $15 a year for your AARP membership. But you’re probably leaving hundreds of dollars on the table.
Most people think AARP is just for restaurant discounts and travel deals. That’s wrong. Your membership card gives you access to savings that most of the 38 million members never use.
Here’s the truth: AARP has deals that can save you $500 to $1,000 every year. These aren’t tiny discounts either. We’re talking about real money on things you already buy.
A study by SeniorLiving.org found that only 26% of people over 55 regularly use senior discounts available to them. That means 74% of people are missing out on free money.
Don’t be one of them.
1. Get a Free Second Membership (Most People Miss This)
Your AARP membership comes with something huge that most people don’t know about. You get a second membership absolutely free for anyone in your household.
How It Works:
- Any adult in your household qualifies (spouse, partner, adult child, roommate)
- Both people get separate cards with their own names
- Each person can use all discounts independently
- No relationship requirement needed
What You Get:
- Cut membership cost in half: $7.50 per person instead of $15
- Double savings opportunities: Two people can use discounts separately
- Separate magazine subscriptions for both members
- Individual AARP Rewards accounts to earn more points
Pro Tip: Many couples don’t realize they can both show their cards at restaurants for separate discounts when dining with friends. Or use different member benefits for the same purchase to stack savings.
How to Get It: Call AARP at 1-888-687-2277 or add the person online in your member account. They’ll send a second card within 2-3 weeks.
Real Savings: $15 per year, plus double the discount opportunities.
2. Save $200 on British Airways Flights (Any Age Can Use This)
AARP has a secret deal with British Airways that most members never use. You can save up to $200 on business class flights to over 130 destinations worldwide.
Key Benefits:
No age restrictions:
- Anyone 18+ with an AARP membership qualifies
- 130+ destinations: Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa
- Business class focus: Where $200 actually makes a difference
- Automatic discounts: No codes needed when booking through the AARP portal
Why This Matters:
A business class ticket to London might cost $3,000, so getting $200 off brings it down to $2,800. That’s meaningful savings on premium travel.
The discount shows up automatically when you book through the AARP link. You don’t need to enter codes or call anyone. Just log in with your AARP credentials and book normally.
Quick Fact: Most people think AARP travel deals are age-restricted, but this British Airways partnership isn’t. Even 25-year-olds can use it.
How to Get It: Log in to your AARP account, go to the travel section, and click on British Airways. Look for fares marked “Discount” during booking.
Real Savings: $200 per person on international business class flights.
3. Cut Your Walmart+ Bill by $40 Every Year
Walmart+ normally costs $98 per year. AARP members pay just $58. That’s $40 in savings for the same service that millions of people pay full price for.
What’s Included:
- Free delivery from your local Walmart store (orders over $35)
- Free shipping with no minimum order on everything else
- Free pharmacy delivery brings prescriptions to your door
- Paramount+ streaming membership included at no extra cost
- Fuel savings: 10¢ off per gallon at Walmart and participating stations
The Math That Matters:
If you buy 50 gallons of gas per month, that’s $5 in fuel savings monthly or $60 per year. The fuel savings alone exceed the membership cost.
Bonus: This stacks with other Walmart savings. Use manufacturer coupons, store sales, and your cashback credit card on top of the membership benefits.
The discount renews automatically as long as you keep your AARP membership active. Cancel AARP, and your Walmart+ goes back to regular pricing.
How to Get It: Go to the AARP website, search for “Walmart Plus,” and follow the link to sign up with your member discount.
Real Savings: $40 per year on grocery delivery and streaming.
4. Join Any Gym in America for $32 Per Month
Most gym memberships cost $50 to $80 per month. AARP members can access thousands of gyms nationwide for just $32 per month through Active & Fit Now.
What Makes This Special:
- No contracts – Cancel anytime without penalties
- No enrollment fees – Start immediately
- No annual charges – Just the monthly fee
- Same rate everywhere – $32, whether it’s a basic gym or fancy club
Participating Gyms Include:
- LA Fitness
- Anytime Fitness
- Planet Fitness
- Thousands of local gyms nationwide
Full Access Means:
- Weight rooms and cardio equipment
- Group fitness classes
- Pools and basketball courts (where available)
- All normal gym amenities
Pro Tip: Some locations that normally charge $100+ per month are available for the same $32 rate. You get full access, and the gym staff treats you like any other member because you are.
How to Get It: Visit the AARP benefits page, search for “Active & Fit Now,” and sign up online.
Real Savings: $18 to $48 per month compared to regular gym prices.
5. Get 5% Off Your Phone Bill Plus 30% Off Accessories
Consumer Cellular gives AARP members great deals, but here’s the real winner: two unlimited lines for $55 per month total.
The Numbers:
- $27.50 per line with unlimited talk, text, and data
- Compared to a major carrier: Verizon charges $60 per line for similar service
- Monthly savings: $65 for two lines compared to Verizon
- Annual savings: $780 for a two-line family plan
Additional AARP Perks:
- 30% off accessories like cases, screen protectors, and chargers
- 45-day money-back guarantee (vs. standard 30 days)
- 5% off the monthly service on all plans
- Same network quality – uses major carrier towers
Why It Works:
Consumer Cellular uses the same cell towers as major carriers, so your coverage and call quality are identical. You’re not sacrificing service quality for the lower price.
Customer Service Bonus: U.S.-based support with consistently high ratings. When you call for help, you talk to someone who speaks clear English and can actually solve your problem.
How to Get It: Call Consumer Cellular at 1-888-345-5509 and mention your AARP membership.
Real Savings: $20-40 per month on phone service for two lines.
6. Save $10 Per Month on AT&T Wireless
AT&T gives AARP members significant discounts that add up to serious money for families.
Monthly Savings Breakdown:
- $10 off per line (up to 5 lines maximum)
- Family of 4 saves: $40 monthly = $480 yearly
- Waived activation fees: Save $35 per line when starting service
- Waived upgrade fees: Save $35 per line when upgrading phones
- 15% off accessories: Cases, chargers, screen protectors
What You Keep:
- Full AT&T features: 5G access, call forwarding, voicemail
- Premium streaming services like HBO Max are included
- International calling to many countries
- Mobile hotspot data included in unlimited plans
How It Works:
AT&T stores honor the discount when you show your AARP card. Online orders work too if you verify your membership through the AARP portal.
Important: The savings continue as long as you maintain both your AARP membership and AT&T service. Cancel AARP, and AT&T starts charging full price again.
How to Get It: Call AT&T at 866-761-9208 or visit a store with your AARP membership card.
Real Savings: $120 per year per phone line.
7. Get 25% Off Movie Tickets at Major Theaters
AARP members save up to 25% on movie tickets at AMC, Regal, Cinemark, and other major chains, plus get access to exclusive movie experiences.
Theater Savings:
- 25% off regular tickets – typically $2-5 per ticket
- Premium formats included: IMAX and 3D movies are often discounted
- No convenience fees when booking online through AARP
- Advance booking savings: Reserve popular movies weeks ahead
Exclusive AARP Movie Perks:
- Free virtual screenings: New releases streamed online before regular streaming
- Special member events: Meet directors/actors in major cities
- Event perks: Refreshments included, costs less than regular tickets
- Concession discounts: Some theaters offer additional savings with an AARP card
Smart Booking Tips:
The discount works for advance ticket purchases, so you can book popular movies weeks ahead and still save money. No more paying full price because you waited until the last minute.
Pro Tip: Ask at the concession stand about additional AARP discounts. Many theaters offer deals on popcorn and drinks that aren’t advertised.
How to Get It: Buy tickets online through the AARP website or show your membership card at the theater box office.
Real Savings: $3-5 per ticket, depending on your local theater prices.
8. Cut Car Rental Costs by 35% Plus Get Free Upgrades
Avis and Budget give AARP members up to 35% off base rental rates, plus valuable extras that regular customers pay for.
Rental Discounts:
- 35% off base rates for most car classes
- Additional weekend savings for leisure travelers
- One-way rental discounts (normally carry hefty fees)
- Airport and off-airport locations both honor discounts
Free Upgrade Benefits:
- Compact to full-size upgrades when available (normally $20-50/day)
- Free additional driver (normally $10-15/day)
- Perfect for couples sharing driving on road trips
Rewards Program:
- 3% back as rental credit for future use
- Credits never expire and accumulate over time
- Example: Rent for $300, get $9 back for next trip
Real-World Example: A week-long rental that normally costs $350 becomes $227.50 with the 35% discount. Add a free upgrade worth $140 and a free additional driver worth $70, and you’re saving $332.50 total.
How to Get It: Book through the AARP travel portal or mention your membership when calling Avis (1-800-352-7900) or Budget (1-800-527-0700).
Real Savings: $15-30 per day on rental cars, plus free upgrades worth $20-50.
9. Save 10-15% at Restaurant Chains Nationwide
AARP works with over 7,000 restaurants to give members dining discounts at both major chains and local spots.
Major Chain Discounts:
- Outback Steakhouse: 15% off entire bill (including drinks)
- Denny’s: 15% off food and non-alcoholic drinks
- Carrabba’s Italian Grill: 10% off dine-in and takeout
- Landry’s restaurants: 10% off phone orders (Joe’s Crab Shack, Rainforest Cafe)
Money-Saving Math:
- $60 dinner for two at Outback: Save $9 with a 15% discount
- Monthly dining out: $9 × 12 months = $108 annual savings
- Weekly coffee at participating chains: $5 × 52 weeks = $260 savings
Local Restaurant Strategy:
Many small restaurants offer AARP discounts but don’t advertise them. Always ask: “Do you offer an AARP discount?” Many will give you 10% off just for asking.
Smart Ordering Tips:
- Discounts apply before tax – you save on the full meal cost
- Tip on the pre-discount amount to be fair to your server
- Takeout works too – mention AARP membership when calling
How to Get It: Show your AARP card before ordering or mention your membership when calling for takeout.
Real Savings: $5-15 per meal, depending on your order size.
10. Earn 3% Cash Back at Gas Stations and Drugstores
The AARP Essential Rewards credit card gives you cash back on purchases you make every week, with no annual fee.
Cash Back Structure:
- 3% back at gas stations – where you fill up weekly
- 3% back at drugstores – CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid purchases
- 2% back on medical expenses – doctor visits, prescriptions, equipment
- 1% back on everything else – no limits or caps
Special Features:
- 0% interest on balance transfers for 15 months
- No annual fee – every dollar earned is profit
- Works everywhere Mastercard is accepted
- Monthly cash back posting – money never expires
Real-World Earnings:
- $100 monthly gas: $36 cash back annually
- $50 monthly drugstore: $18 cash back annually
- $2,000 annual medical: $40 cash back annually
- Total potential: $94+ cash back yearly
Redemption Options:
- Statement credit applied to your bill
- Direct deposit to your bank account
- Gift cards to popular retailers
Important: You don’t need to be 50+ to get this card. AARP membership is the only requirement.
How to Get It: Apply at aarpcreditcard.com. You don’t need to be 50 or older.
Real Savings: $30-60 per year in cash back for typical spending.
11. Double Your Gas Station Rewards Points
ExxonMobil gives AARP members extra points on fuel and convenience store purchases through their Rewards+ program.
Points Earning Structure:
- Regular purchases: 3 points per gallon of gas
- AARP member days: 6 points per gallon (double points)
- Convenience stores: 2 points per dollar normally, 4 points on member days
- Welcome bonus: 500 points ($5 value) after first fill-up
How Points Work:
- 100 points = $1 in rewards
- Use for: Gas, car washes, snacks, drinks
- Points never expire (with account activity every 7 years)
- Member appreciation days happen several times monthly
Smart Strategy:
Time your gas purchases for member appreciation days when you earn double points. Use the app to track when these special days occur.
Buy coffee and snacks during your commute on double-point days to maximize earnings from convenience store purchases.
Annual Potential:
- Fill up twice monthly: 24 fillups × 15 gallons × 3 extra points = 1,080 bonus points = $10.80
- Convenience purchases: $20 monthly × 2 extra points × 12 months = 480 points = $4.80
- Total extra earnings: $15-20+ annually
How to Get It: Link your AARP membership to your ExxonMobil Rewards+ account online or through their app.
Real Savings: $20-40 per year in extra gas rewards.
12. Get 10% Off Hotels Plus Late Checkout
Choice Hotels and Wyndham Hotels give AARP members 10% off the best available rates, plus valuable extras that business travelers love.
Hotel Brands Included:
- Choice Hotels: Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion
- Wyndham Hotels: Days Inn, Super 8, Ramada, La Quinta
- Hampton Inn and other participating chains
Booking Benefits:
- 10% off best available rates – applies to advance and last-minute bookings
- No blackout dates during holidays or busy periods
- Extra loyalty points on top of discounted rates
- Late checkout until 2 PM (vs. standard 11 AM/noon)
Package Deal Bonus:
When you book flight + hotel packages through the AARP travel portal, you get a $50 gift card of your choice:
- Amazon gift cards
- Restaurant chain gift cards
- Gas station gift cards
Business Travel Advantage:
Business travelers can use the discount for work trips and keep the personal savings. The late checkout is perfect for catching afternoon flights without rushing.
Pro Tip: Weekend rates are often discounted more than weekday rates. Plan leisure trips around these deeper discounts for maximum savings.
How to Get It: To access AARP travel discounts, use their online portal or state your membership when booking a hotel by phone.
Real Savings: $10-30 per night on hotel stays.
13. Turn Daily Activities Into Gift Cards
AARP Rewards lets you earn points for everyday activities you’re already doing, then trade them for gift cards and local deals.
How to Earn Points:
- Reading articles: 15 points each (vs. 10 for non-members)
- Taking health quizzes: 30 points each (vs. 20 for non-members)
- Daily walking: 25 points for hitting 7,000 steps
- Special challenges: 100+ bonus points for weekly goals
AARP Member Advantage:
Members earn 50% more points than non-members for identical activities. This bonus applies to everything you do in the program.
Redemption Options:
- $5 gift cards: Typically, 500 points
- Amazon, Target, restaurants: Wide selection available
- Local business deals: 20-50% off nearby shops and services
- Monthly rotating offers: New local deals each month
Automatic Earning:
Sync a fitness tracker or smartphone to earn points automatically for walking. Hit your daily step goal and earn points without thinking about it.
Monthly Potential: Active members typically earn 750-1,000 points monthly through normal activities. That’s $7.50-10 in gift cards monthly, or $90-120 annually.
How to Get It: Sign up for free at aarprewards.com and sync your fitness tracker or smartphone.
Real Savings: $50-100 per year in gift cards.
14. Access Free Fitness Classes and Skill Training
AARP members get free access to workout videos, live classes, and educational content that normally costs $20-50 monthly.
Fitness Content:
- Expert trainers: Denise Austin, Kathy Smith, certified instructors
- Pilates classes: Live-streamed and on-demand sessions
- Multiple fitness levels: Beginner to advanced options
- Equipment-free workouts: Perfect for home exercise
Educational Classes:
- Cooking classes: Celebrity chefs and nutrition experts
- Technology training: Smartphones, social media, online banking
- Career workshops: Resume writing, interview skills for 50+ workers
- Financial planning: Retirement, Social Security, Medicare guidance
Class Features:
- Live interaction: Ask questions during live sessions
- Recorded versions: Watch anytime if you miss live classes
- Comfortable pacing: Designed for adult learners
- Expert instructors: Certified professionals in each field
Special Focus Areas:
- Age discrimination strategies for job seekers over 50
- Technology comfort for less tech-savvy adults
- Financial planning from certified advisors without consultation fees
Value Comparison: Individual fitness apps charge $15-30 monthly. Online cooking classes cost $20+ per session. AARP provides this content free with membership.
How to Get It: Visit the AARP website and look for “fitness videos” or “free classes” in the member benefits section.
Real Savings: $20-50 per month compared to paid fitness apps or in-person classes.
15. Cut Prescription Drug Costs at CVS and Other Pharmacies
AARP’s prescription discount program works at major pharmacy chains and can save money even if you have insurance.
Where It Works:
- CVS Pharmacy – nationwide locations
- Walgreens – all participating stores
- Rite Aid – most locations
- Independent pharmacies – thousands nationwide
How Savings Work:
- Generic drugs: 10-80% discounts (biggest savings category)
- Brand-name drugs: Meaningful discounts on expensive medications
- Pet medications: Works for veterinary prescriptions too
- OTC products: Some locations discount vitamins and health products
Smart Usage Tips:
- Compare with insurance: Sometimes AARP price beats your copay
- Family coverage: Help the non-member family when you’re present
- Pharmacy shopping: Compare AARP prices between different chains
- No restrictions: Use monthly or as-needed with no limits
Additional Benefits:
- No enrollment required – just show your AARP card
- Works immediately – no waiting periods or approvals
- Covers ongoing medications and one-time prescriptions
Real Example: A generic medication with a $25 insurance copay might cost only $12 with the AARP discount. Over 12 months, that’s $156 in savings on one medication.
How to Get It: Show your AARP membership card at participating pharmacies or ask for the “AARP prescription discount.”
Real Savings: $50-200 per year, depending on your medications.
How to Start Using These Discounts Today
Immediate Action Steps:
- Download the AARP Now app for your digital membership card
- Set up AARP Rewards to start earning points immediately
- Link fitness tracker, if you have one, for automatic points
- Choose your top 3 discounts based on your spending habits
Quick Wins This Week:
- Restaurant discount: Show your card at your next meal out
- Gas rewards: Link your ExxonMobil account today
- Movie tickets: Book online through AARP for weekend plans
- Phone bill: Call AT&T or Consumer Cellular for instant savings
Pro Tech Tip:
The AARP Now app sends location-based alerts when you’re near participating businesses. Turn on notifications to never miss a discount opportunity.
