How to Use AAA Membership for Vacation Planning

Steps You Can Take When Planning a Vacation

The following tasks and tips will take you from daydreaming about your vacation to living it. 

Choose a Destination 

Are you planning a romantic getaway? An outdoor adventure with friends? A family vacation packed with kid-friendly fun? Defining what you want your trip to be will help you narrow your choices.

As you ponder your options, consider what type of experiences you’d like to have. You might crave a beach vacation, or maybe you want to see some theater. If you’re traveling with others, ask which activities they’re most interested in.

Next, consider how much time you have. For example, if you have a four-day weekend, a nearby destination makes more sense than a trip halfway around the world.

Consider the season, too. You can find great deals in the tropics during hurricane season, but you’ll need to contend with high humidity and possible storm surges. Europe is popular in the summer, but usually more crowded and expensive.

A knowledgeable AAA Travel Advisor can suggest some budget-friendly destinations that will be ideal for you and your crew. Members can access discounted AAA Travel Advisor services at select branches.

Plan Your Vacation Budget 

Determine how much you can spend on your trip. Your budget should include flights, rental cars, accommodations, dining, and sightseeing excursions. Start saving up ahead of time if you need to.

To keep your adventure budget-friendly, look for travel discounts. AAA Members get exclusive travel deals on cruises, train journeys, and vacation packages around the world. They also get special AAA Member discounts on amusement parks and attractions.

For some expert guidance, a AAA Travel Advisor can help you create lifelong memories as a reasonable cost. Members can access discounted AAA Travel Advisor services at select branches.

Research Dates 

Check your calendar to find some windows for your trip. If you’re traveling with others, you’ll need to consider their schedules, too. And double-check the dates of any events you’d like to attend, such as a film festival, so you don’t miss it.

Book Flights and Hotels 

Once you’ve chosen your dates, book your flights and accommodations. 

If you’re flexible on flight dates, you may be able to save money on airline tickets. Flying out midweek, for example, can cost less than on a weekend. It’s also a good idea to compare different airports. Flights to one airport may have lower fares than another one in the same city. 

When choosing lodging, make sure it meets your needs. Do you value a convenient location, or a swimming pool for the kids to splash around in? Depending on what you’re looking for, some amenities might cost extra. Luckily, AAA Members receive exclusive discounts at select hotels. (When you’re on a road trip, you can use the AAA Mobile app to get directions to nearby AAA Diamond Rated and approved hotels.)

While booking your trip, keep in mind that you may be eligible for a discount when you buy a flight and hotel bundle (maybe with a rental car, too). 

Book Activities 

During the trip planning process, book attractions and activities ahead of time if you can. Buy theater or concert tickets, book a whale-watching tour, or make reservations for that restaurant you would absolutely love to try.

AAA Members can get discounts on amusement parks and attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland® Resort. Your AAA Membership also gives you access to more than 200,000 experiences and attractions.  

If your destination is in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, check out AAA TourBook® Guides, which are bursting with inspiration for your upcoming adventure.

Create an Itinerary 

Build a schedule of events for your trip. Include any tours, restaurant reservations, and visits with local friends, but make sure to leave some free time for relaxation or spontaneity. You don’t want to feel overbooked and overwhelmed during your vacation.

An itinerary will help you stay organized so you don’t miss anything. It can also help you determine if you need any transportation. You might plan to get around on foot if you’re staying in town. But if you also booked an event in the countryside, you may need a ride. If you’re in need of a set of wheels, AAA Members get discounts and deals on car rentals.

Get an International Driving Permit

Some countries don’t recognize a U.S. driver’s license. If you’ll be driving in another country, you may need an international driving permit. To find out, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website and search for the country you’re visiting. On that country’s page, see “Travel and Transportation” for driver’s license requirements.

AAA is the official organization authorized by the State Department to issue international drivers permits. To get one, apply by mail or visit your local AAA Branch. Learn more about how to get an international driving permit through AAA. 

Make Sure Your Passport Hasn’t Expired

For international travel, make sure your passport is current. Many countries require that your passport is valid for another six months after  your visit. If you plan to visit several countries during your vacation, your passport should have enough pages left for the stamps.

Need to renew your passport or get a passport for the first time? You can get a passport photo at your local AAA Branch.

Check Visa Requirements

In addition to a valid passport, international travelers may need a visa. Use the U.S. Department of State’s “Learn About Your Destination” tool to see the visa requirements for your destination.

Make sure to get the right visa for your needs. A single-entry visa will suffice if you’re entering the country once. If you plan on coming and going, you’ll need a multiple-entry visa.

Check Vaccination Advisories

If you’re visiting another country, safeguard your health by getting the necessary vaccinations before you travel. Visit the CDC’s website to learn about local health advisories and vaccination recommendations and requirements.

Plan for Children

It’s important to craft a plan for your kids, whether they’re traveling with you or staying home.

When traveling with kids, involve them in the travel planning process. Find some kid-friendly activities at your destination and let them choose their favorites. If you’re taking a road trip or a long flight, pack books, busy boards, or small toys to keep them occupied. Keep some healthy snacks on hand, too. 

For smooth travels, make sure your children’s travel documents are in order. The quicker your travel time, the better, so prebook transportation from the airport to your hotel. That way, you don’t need to wait curbside with a fussy toddler for a shuttle or taxi.

While you’re visiting an amusement park or other attraction, young kids can get excited and dash off. For peace of mind, you can buy temporary custom tattoos for kids online that say, “If lost, please call,” along with your phone number. 

If you’re traveling alone with a child, some countries require that you have custody documents or notarized consent from the child’s other parent. Check with your destination’s embassy to see which travel documents you might need for minors.

If you’re planning a trip without the kids, leave them in the care of a grandparent or someone else they know well. And arrange for backup care so you don’t need to cancel your trip if your childcare falls through.

Plan for Pets 

When traveling with pets, make sure they have up-to-date ID tags, in case they get lost. Pack a copy of your pet’s vaccination and health records in case you need to visit a vet or board your pet for a short time. 

Bring water, plenty of food, a comfy blanket, and your pet’s favorite toy, too

Research your destination’s pet rules. Many national parks require that you keep dogs on leashes in campgrounds, for example, and don’t allow them on some trails.  

If you’re flying with a pet, you’ll need to declare your pet (and pay a fee) when buying your airline tickets. Buy a USDA-approved shipping crate to transport your furry friend. At the airport, your pet will need to go through a security screening. Be prepared to remove your pet from their carrier so authorities can examine the carrier. If you’re traveling with an animal who’s prone to stress, ask your veterinarian about  a spray or medication to help them stay calm. That way, you’ll both worry less.

Try to book a direct flight and, if possible, bring your pet in the cabin with you. (Many airlines have size restrictions, so check ahead of time.) 

If you’re not taking your pet along, ask a trusted friend or family member to take care of them.  

Research Local Customs 

Learning about the local customs of your destination is part of the fun. (It also makes you a more gracious guest.)

Read guidebooks or search online for information about the local history, festivals, must-try food and drinks, and artisan crafts. Learn at least a few often-used phrases in the local language, too. There are plenty of language learning apps that can help you along.

Also, learn which behaviors to avoid. Hand gestures that you use at home, for example, might have offensive meanings in another country. Visitors are usually forgiven for mistakes, but it’s always good to be conscientious and respectful.

Get Travel Insurance

Snafus can happen as you’re traveling. You prepay for a tour, then the company goes out of business. You get stuck in terrible traffic and miss your flight. You get sick and need to cut your trip short.

Beyond the frustration and disappointment, these situations can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Travel insurance covers nonrefundable travel losses. AAA Travel Advisors can help you find a travel insurance policy that’s right for you.

Gather Important Travel Documents

Gather your travel documents and store them in one bag. Depending on where you’re going, you may need:

• A valid photo ID
• A REAL ID (if you’re flying domestically or internationally, beginning May 7, 2025)
• Your passport and your children’s passports (if you’re flying internationally)
• Your visa (if you’re visiting a country that requires one)
• Proof of immunization (if you’re visiting a country that requires it)
• Plane tickets
• Your international drivers permit (if needed)
• Your medical insurance card
• Your travel insurance policy
• Your pet’s vaccination/health records
• Your rental car contract (if you prebooked)
• Your itinerary
• Hotel reservations
• Tickets or receipts for tours, shows, sporting events, or other activities
• Your AAA Membership Card (if you’re driving or want to take advantage of discounts)

Be Prepared With Roadside Assistance

If traveling by car, make sure you have your AAA Membership Card or number handy. You can add your Membership number to your digital wallet using the mobile app. 

Make a Packing List

Create a packing list ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. When you’re heading out the door, it’s easy to focus on your luggage and forget to grab things like your house keys. So make your list comprehensive and check items off as you’re packing.

When creating your packing list, consider the climate and the activities you’ll be doing. If you’ll be hiking, for example, you’ll need appropriate shoes and clothing. And don’t forget items like medications and charging cords. 

Use Your AAA Membership for Travel Planning

Vacation planning may take some time, but it also takes away some of the stress and worry. Travel with even more confidence with the help of a travel expert. AAA Travel Advisors can help you plan and book your trip via phone or in person at select branches. 

With the work done, you can now relax and enjoy your adventure. 

Bon voyage!