What AARP Tours Are and How to Join

AARP Tours are group travel packages organized by AARP Travel, a division of AARP that arranges trips for members 50 and older. The tours cover destinations across the United States and internationally, with itineraries that typically last from a few days to two weeks. You do not have to be an AARP member to book a tour, but members receive discounts on most trips.

To join a tour, you contact AARP Travel directly by phone, through their website, or by mail. You will receive a tour catalog or can browse available trips online, select your destination, and provide your booking information. A deposit is required at the time of reservation, with the balance due closer to your departure date.

Tours are led by professional tour directors who manage the group, handle logistics, and provide information about each destination. Most tours include transportation, lodging, some meals, and admission to attractions. The size of tour groups varies, but many include 20 to 50 travelers.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP Tours are available to anyone 50 or older, but AARP members receive discounts that typically range from 5 to 15 percent off the base price.
  • Tours include transportation, hotel accommodations, a tour director, and most meals and attractions, though the exact inclusions depend on which trip you choose.
  • You can book by phone, online, or by mail, and you will need to pay a deposit when you reserve and the remaining balance before departure.
  • Cancellation policies vary by tour, so you should review the terms when you book to understand what happens if you need to cancel or change your dates.
  • Travel insurance is available as an add-on and covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, though it is not included in the base tour price.

Types of Tours AARP Offers

AARP Tours range from domestic trips within the United States to international destinations in Europe, Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean. Domestic tours often focus on national parks, historic cities, scenic drives, and cultural landmarks. Popular U.S. destinations include the Grand Canyon, New England, the Pacific Northwest, and Southern heritage sites.

International tours typically include guided sightseeing, cultural experiences, and stays in hotels selected for comfort and location. Common international destinations include Italy, France, Spain, Ireland, Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica. Some tours are themed around specific interests, such as gardens, wine regions, or art history.

Tour lengths vary from long weekends (three to four days) to extended trips (10 to 14 days). Pricing depends on the destination, length, time of year, and what is included. You can request a catalog or search the AARP Travel website to see current offerings and prices.

What Is Included and What Costs Extra

Most AARP Tours include transportation to and from the airport or a designated meeting point, hotel accommodations, a professional tour director, and admission to major attractions listed in the itinerary. Many tours also include breakfast and some dinners, though not every meal. Lunch is sometimes on your own so you can explore local restaurants.

Items not typically included are airfare (unless the tour specifically states it is included), meals not listed in the itinerary, tips for the tour director and driver, personal expenses, and travel insurance. Some tours offer optional excursions or activities at an additional cost. You should review the detailed itinerary before booking to understand exactly what is covered.

AARP members receive a discount on the base tour price. The discount amount varies by tour but is often 5 to 15 percent. Non-members pay the full price, though they can still book. Some tours offer early-booking discounts or seasonal promotions, so checking for current offers can lower your cost.

How to Book and Payment Terms

You can book an AARP Tour by calling AARP Travel at 1-866-454-8737, visiting the AARP Travel website, or requesting a printed catalog by mail. When you call or book online, you will select your tour, confirm your travel dates, and provide your name, contact information, and any special requests (such as a room on a lower floor or dietary restrictions).

A deposit is required to hold your reservation. The deposit amount is typically $250 to $500 per person, depending on the tour price. The remaining balance is due 30 to 60 days before departure, depending on the tour operator. You will receive an invoice showing the deposit, balance due date, and payment instructions.

Payment methods include credit card, check, or bank transfer. If you are paying by check, mail it to the address provided on your invoice. You will receive a confirmation number and receipt once your payment is processed. Keep these documents for your records.

Cancellation and Travel Insurance

Cancellation policies vary by tour and tour operator. Most tours allow you to cancel up to 30 to 60 days before departure with a full refund of your deposit, minus a small cancellation fee (often $50 to $100). Cancellations made closer to the departure date may result in loss of the full deposit or more.

If you need to cancel within a few weeks of departure, you may lose most or all of your payment. Some tours offer a credit toward a future trip instead of a refund. You should review the specific cancellation terms for your tour when you book.

AARP offers travel insurance as an optional add-on that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies abroad, emergency evacuation, lost luggage, and travel delays. Insurance costs vary based on the tour price and your age but typically ranges from $150 to $400 per person. Insurance must be purchased at the time of booking or within a set number of days after your initial deposit.

What to Expect During Your Tour

Your tour director will meet the group on the first day and provide an overview of the itinerary, daily schedules, and logistics such as meal times and meeting points. Each day typically includes guided sightseeing, visits to attractions, and time for meals. Some days may include walking tours or optional activities.

The pace of tours varies. Some are more active with multiple stops and walking each day, while others move at a slower pace with more free time. The tour description and itinerary will indicate the activity level. If you have mobility concerns, you should contact AARP Travel before booking to discuss whether a particular tour is suitable.

Accommodations are usually in mid-range to upscale hotels selected for their location and amenities. Rooms are typically double occupancy, though single rooms are available at an additional cost. Most hotels have elevators, but some older properties may not. You can request specific room preferences when you book, though they are not may provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an AARP member to book a tour?

No. AARP Tours are open to anyone 50 or older. AARP members receive a discount on most tours, but non-members can book at the full price. If you are not a member and want the discount, you can join AARP at the time of booking.

What happens if I get sick or injured during the tour?

Your tour director can help you find medical care and contact your insurance company. Travel insurance covers medical emergencies and emergency evacuation if needed. You should carry copies of your health insurance card and any prescription medications. Let your tour director know when ready if you become ill.

Can I extend my trip or arrive early?

Yes. You can arrange to arrive before the tour starts or stay after it ends. AARP Travel can help you book additional hotel nights or flights. You will pay extra for these extensions, and they are not part of the group tour package.

Are there tours for people with mobility limitations?

Some tours are designed for travelers with limited mobility and include accessible hotels and transportation. The tour description indicates the activity level and any physical demands. Contact AARP Travel directly to discuss your specific needs and find a tour that works for you.

What if the tour is cancelled?

If AARP cancels a tour due to low enrollment or circumstances beyond their control, you will receive a full refund or the option to transfer to a different tour. AARP will notify you as soon as possible if a tour is cancelled.