Picking where to go, making reservations and counting down the days are all part of trip-planning. But let’s face it; booking a good hotel at the right price can quickly turn fun into frustration. Compulsive scrolling, rate comparing and just plain wondering if you’re getting the quality you deserve can take the joy out of reserving a room in a great destination. That’s where AAA comes in.
With a AAA membership, making a hotel room reservation becomes one of the easiest parts of booking your trip. Not only can you save money with special member rates, but you'll also gain peace of mind with AAA Diamonds, a designation trusted by both AAA members and the travel industry at large. Follow along to learn how AAA makes it simple to book a hotel and why a AAA Travel Agent can save you time and money. Your membership may pay for itself with just one trip.
Save on Hotels with AAA Travel Agent Expertise
Hotel prices change based on demand, aka dynamic pricing. When rooms fill up, rates rise. When demand drops, rates fall.
So prices go "up and down," according to Kristin Zapf, Travel Reservations and Support Center Manager, who works at the travel reservation center at AAA East Central, collaborating closely with department advisors to ensure smooth operations. She also manages the internal help desk, supporting office agents, call center staff and AAA.com bookings to address needs across various platforms.
Among the factors of booking are timing, like day (Tuesday and Wednesday being the best days to book) and time of the year as well as the number of rooms. If a destination is fully booked, "there could be some kind of event," which you'd either plan for or book around.
AAA Travel Agents understand these trends, can price out hotels and track those changes for you — knowing when prices dip to help you lock in deals. They can compare booking early to holding out for last-minute discounts, offering recommendations for your trip. It's best to plan 30 days out, but it depends on the season. Travel agents can help you achieve the "optimal, best rate."
"Some of the pros and cons of booking early versus last-minute are really going to depend on your availability as the consumer. Booking early gives you a lot more choices and usually better rates, where last-minute can sometimes save you money, but you're taking a gamble on what's still available," she says. Generally, you'll want to book early if you want a certain hotel — unless you're flexible, which can lead to an even better deal.
Bundling hotels with flights or tours is also something a travel agent can do — simplifying and ensuring there's only one point of contact in case any changes need to be made. Bundling can unlock discounts and extra perks with preferred partners on trips by rail, Pleasant Holidays or Hertz, providing even more value to AAA members, according to Zapf.
Enjoy Exclusive Savings and Benefits When Booking a Hotel
AAA members unlock savings you can’t get elsewhere, and Zapf says members using a Travel Agent can expect to save from 5 to 15% extra and earn extra hotel perks, such as late checkout or free breakfast. They also know the latest savings and benefits, whether on AAA Tickets or AAA's travel credit card (terms apply).
Independent travelers can save, too. Thanks to partnerships with major hotel brands, a number of savings and benefits are available online. AAA/CAA Preferred Hotels offer a discounted rate of 5 to 10%. Even better, you don’t have to miss out on rewards from hotel loyalty programs; you can book through AAA and input your hotel loyalty ID to enjoy benefits.
Experience Peace of Mind with Hotel Quality Assurance
When choosing a hotel, trust is critical. That’s why so many travelers rely on AAA Diamond-designated properties (ranging from AAA Approved to AAA Five Diamond) to remove guesswork and book with confidence. With a team of expert traveling inspectors, the program assists in finding hotels that match both consumer needs and expectations.
“Why Diamonds? Members rely on our assurance that every Diamond-designated property has met our standards for guest quality, cleanliness and condition,” says Director of the AAA Diamond Program Chris Andersen. With this commitment, you can travel knowing you’ll avoid unwelcome surprises.
The AAA Diamond Hotel program takes quality seriously. Since 1937, AAA Inspectors have visited properties, offering insights on amenities and comfort and highlighting standout hotels through designations like AAA’s Best of Badges.
With a AAA membership and smart booking tips, you save time, skip stress and get the amenities you want. Think about location, activities, and your must-haves, such as pet-friendly rooms. For any trip, the AAA Diamond system removes uncertainty and lets you choose with confidence, as Andersen underscores.
“Only properties that pass our rigorous inspection can earn AAA Diamond designations, so consumers can book with confidence knowing that at any Diamond level, they'll get the service and amenities they expect.”
Book Your Next Hotel with AAA
Booking the right hotel room is an essential part of any successful trip, and AAA makes it easier than ever. With travel tools like the all-in-one AAA Trip Canvas, you can research and book options that fit your preferences and budget, ensuring a stress-free travel experience, while AAA Diamond Hotel program takes the guesswork out of quality by evaluating properties to meet both trusted industry standards and guest expectations. You can rest easy knowing your accommodations are top-notch.
If you’re traveling internationally, it’s important to do your research; some countries require proof of a confirmed hotel booking for entry. Check your destination’s entry requirements to avoid surprises upon arrival. Make sure your travel documents, like U.S. passports and/or visas, are up to date, and consider travel insurance to protect against unexpected issues like cancellations or lost luggage. If you’re flying, arrive early to navigate security lines and last-minute changes with ease, ensuring the journey is as smooth as the hotel stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Booking Hotels
1. What’s the best way to reserve a hotel through AAA?
Joining AAA and booking directly through AAA will get you the best rates and exclusive member savings and benefits. AAA Travel Agents can help you compare options, find hidden deals and secure extras like free breakfast or late check-out. Plus, you’ll avoid the risks that sometimes come with third-party hotel reservations, like unexpected fees or unknown cancellation policies, since a AAA Travel Agent has access to vendor information and can reveal what's refundable versus pay when you arrive.
2. When is the best time to book?
Big events and holidays lead to higher prices, so it’s smart to book as soon as you know your dates. AAA Travel Agents suggest booking domestic hotels at least 30 days out and international stays 1-3 months ahead, depending on the season. Generally, shoulder season is more affordable, while midweek (mainly Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are cheaper days of the week to book a stay. Shifting your travel by just one day can sometimes lead to huge savings.
3. What are some hotel booking tips to save more with AAA?
To maximize your savings, combine your AAA discount with other offers like seasonal promotions or loyalty programs. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider booking during the shoulder season for lower rates. Check for AAA’s exclusive vacation packages, too. Booking a vacation package through AAA often includes added value like parking or dining credits.
4. Are AAA hotel discounts available if you travel internationally?
Yes! Your AAA membership works globally with partnerships at hotels in major destinations. Along with savings, you get support for international travel, including advice on requirements, customs and help if something goes wrong.
5. What are the benefits of booking travel through AAA?
AAA members enjoy exclusive discounts, access to travel experts and extras like travel insurance. AAA takes the stress out of planning while you save money and focus on your next adventure.
