aaa for travel

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

AAA Travel Insurance Review 2024: Is it Worth the Cost?

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

What does AAA travel insurance cover?

Aaa single-trip plans, aaa annual plans, which aaa travel insurance plan is best for me, can you buy aaa travel insurance online, what isn’t covered by aaa travel insurance, aaa travel insurance, recapped.

• You don't need to be an AAA member.
• Annual or single-trip policies are available.
• Can add on a Rental Car Damage protector plan.
• Cheapest option doesn't include medical coverage.
• CFAR upgrade is only available for higher-cost plans.

Before going on a trip, it's important to give travel insurance some serious thought as it can protect you if anything goes wrong on your vacation. One provider to consider is AAA Travel Insurance.

The company’s policies are administered by Allianz Global Assistance, an insurer that serves 40 million customers in the U.S. and operates in 35 countries. You do not have to be a AAA member to purchase AAA travel insurance.

AAA offers annual or single-trip policies for domestic and international travel. The policies vary by state and travel destination, so the plans available in your home area may differ from the examples shown below. Use AAA's Get A Quote tool to see your specific pricing.

» Learn more: The majority of Americans plan to travel in 2022

AAA’s single-trip plans are designed for travelers who are leaving their homes, visiting another destination, domestic or international, and returning. To get an idea of which plans are available, we input a sample itinerary of a $3,000, two-week trip to Spain by a 45-year-old from Indiana. For this itinerary, AAA offered four single-trip plans.

* Higher limit requires receipts to be submitted.

AAA single-trip plans cost

The Essential Plan ($97) is ideal for those who just want the basics of trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance and don't need the other protections. This is a good fit for domestic travelers who already have health coverage in the U.S. and don't plan on bringing business equipment.

The Basic Plan ($111) includes all the features of the Essential Plan, along with medical coverage and some increased protections for baggage and travel delays.

The Classic ($140) and Premier Plans ($174) are nearly identical, but the latter provides double emergency medical coverage, emergency transportation, trip delay and baggage delay limits.

The Classic Plan offers a "cancel for any reason" optional upgrade for $71, which would bring the total to $211.

There is also a Rental Car Damage protector plan for $135, which provides $1,000 of trip interruption and baggage loss coverage and $40,000 of rental car damage and theft benefits. This plan will cover your costs if the rental car is stolen or damaged. In addition, you’ll be reimbursed for the unused portion of your trip and if your bags are lost or damaged. This plan offers an alternative to purchasing coverage at the rental counter.

» Learn More: Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) travel insurance explained

The annual policies provide 365 days of domestic and international coverage and are best suited for those who travel often. To see which plans are available, we input a $15,000 annual travel budget for coverage starting in July 2020 for a 30-year-old from New Hampshire. For this itinerary, AAA is offering four policies, with the three higher-end plans geared toward business travelers.

AAA annual plans cost

The Annual Deluxe Plan ($275) is designed for those who aren’t too concerned with pre-trip cancellation benefits or business equipment protections and are more interested in medical coverage while abroad. If you already have some travel insurance through a credit card, this plan may be sufficient.

The next three Annual Executive Plans ($500-$785) are tiered based on the amount of trip cancellation and interruption coverage provided ($5,000, $7,500 or $10,000). All the other protections under the Executive Plans are identical. All three plans include business equipment coverage as well as business equipment rental and delay protections. If you’re traveling for work, these plans may be your best bet.

Although all four of these are annual plans, no individual trip can exceed 45 days. For trips longer than 45 days, Allianz offers an AllTrips Premier plan , which provides coverage for up to 90 days per trip.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

Choosing the right plan for your trip involves understanding what type of coverage you will want while you’re traveling.

If you have a premium travel card that already provides you with a sufficient level of trip cancellation coverage, you may only need to get a standalone emergency medical policy. For example, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers $10,000 per trip and $20,000 per year in trip cancellation benefits. Terms apply. Only the Annual Executive Plan ($10,000) has a comparable level of trip cancellation coverage.

If the coverage provided by your card isn’t adequate, you don’t have credit card coverage or you didn’t pay for your trip with that credit card, then you might be better off with a comprehensive plan like one of the single or annual trip plans, depending on your travel goals.

If you’re a long-term traveler and expect to take many trips, the annual plans will be the most suitable. However, with coverage for each trip capped at 45 days, you’ll want to look at other options if you will be away from home for longer.

Yes, you can buy AAA Travel Insurance onlince. Head over to Agentmaxonline.com , input your trip details and choose “Get Quote” to see a list of available plans.

Trip insurance plans have a lot of exclusions that you need to pay attention to so you know exactly what type of coverage you’re getting. Here are some general exclusions you can expect:

High-risk activities: Skydiving, bungee jumping, heli-skiing and other types of high-risk sporting activities that the insurer deems unsafe.

Intentional acts: Losses sustained from intoxication, drug use, self-harm and criminal activity.

Specifically designated events: Epidemics, natural disasters and war are specifically mentioned in the policy as exclusions.

It's important to note that exclusions may vary based on the policy and where you live, so it's always best to review the fine print to ensure you’re clear about what is and isn’t covered.

» Learn more: Will travel insurance cover winter weather woes?

Yes. However, plan choices depend on your state of residence and trip duration. We performed various searches for sample trips and found policies for single trips and annual trips. Single-trip plans are great for travelers who are traveling from their home to a different destination (domestic or international) and then returning. Coverage ends when the traveler returns home. Annual trip plans are designed for those who want to take several trips during a specific period of time, regardless of how many times they return home during the covered period.

The cost of a travel insurance policy depends on many factors , including the trip length, your state of residence and how much coverage you’d like. Our sample search for a $3,000 two-week trip to Spain showed policies ranging from $97 to $211, representing 3% to 7% of the total trip cost.

Yes, AAA’s travel insurance policies offer coverage for international travel. To check the type of plans available for your intended destination, visit AAA’s travel insurance site and enter your trip details.

Travel insurance offers a safety net so that if something goes wrong while you’re on vacation, you’re not alone. Whether it's a cancelled flight, lost luggage or emergency medical care, travel insurance coverage will come in handy. Although it's never fun to think about unexpected emergencies that can derail your trip, consider how much risk you’re willing to take before deciding to not purchase a policy. That will help you decide if travel insurance is worth it .

The cost of a travel insurance policy

depends on many factors

, including the trip length, your state of residence and how much coverage you’d like. Our sample search for a $3,000 two-week trip to Spain showed policies ranging from $97 to $211, representing 3% to 7% of the total trip cost.

Yes, AAA’s travel insurance policies offer coverage for international travel. To check the type of plans available for your intended destination, visit

AAA’s travel insurance site

and enter your trip details.

Travel insurance offers a safety net so that if something goes wrong while you’re on vacation, you’re not alone. Whether it's a cancelled flight, lost luggage or emergency medical care, travel insurance coverage will come in handy. Although it's never fun to think about unexpected emergencies that can derail your trip, consider how much risk you’re willing to take before deciding to not purchase a policy. That will help you decide if

travel insurance is worth it

AAA was found to be one of the best travel insurance companies according to NerdWallet's most recent analysis.

Before shopping for a policy, check to see what coverage you may already have. Some premium credit cards provide travel insurance. If you hold one of these credit cards and the coverage limits are adequate, you may only need a standalone emergency medical insurance policy . However, if your credit card doesn’t cover you sufficiently, a comprehensive travel insurance plan might be the right choice. AAA offers a few plans to pick from, but the choices boil down to annual or single-trip insurance plans.

No matter what type of traveler you are, AAA offers various trip insurance options to choose from. Rates and options vary by state, so be sure to input your information into the online tool.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

AAA forecasts nearly 44M travelers for Memorial Day weekend: See best times to travel

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, which means people will be flooding highways and airports this weekend looking to get away for some rest and relaxation.

The American Automobile Association is projecting nearly 44 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period, which is defined by the organization as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27.

"We haven't seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years," said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a news release. "We're projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we're exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead."

The organization projects over 38 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, over 3.5 million will travel by air and nearly 2 million will travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises and trains.

The 38 million drivers is the highest number for Memorial Day since AAA began tracking data in 2000 and is up 4% compared to last year. The 3.5 million air travelers is an increase of nearly 5% over last year and, according to AAA, this will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

When is Memorial Day?: Here's when the holiday falls and what to know about its history.

Best, worst times to travel for Memorial Day weekend

Drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters, AAA said, citing data from transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Drivers going back home Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in the news release.

Here's a breakdown of the best and worst times to travel by car depending on which day you are traveling:

Thursday, May 23

• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between noon and 6 p.m.

Friday, May 24

• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m. and after 8 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between noon and 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 25

• Best travel time: Before 1 p.m. and after 6 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Sunday, May 26

• Best travel time: Before 1 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Monday, May 27

• Best travel time: After 7 p.m.

Gas prices continue to decrease heading into Memorial Day weekend

According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of gasoline has fallen four cents since last week, to $3.60. The primary reasons are weak domestic demand and oil costs below $80 a barrel, according to the organization.

“Barring some unforeseen event, this pokey drop in pump prices is not likely to change anytime soon,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson, in a news release. “There are seven states with county gas averages at less than $3 a gallon. This trend will likely accelerate as more gas outlets east of the Rockies drop their prices.”

This Memorial Day weekend, drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was about $3.57.

"Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks," AAA said in the news release, while also noting that prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway.

The wildcard remains the cost of oil, according to the organization, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

Join AAA today Membership gives you access to Roadside Assistance, Deals, Discounts, and more.

• Add Members
• Gift Membership
• Member Benefits Guide
• The Extra Mile
• Renew Expires in 28 days

AAA Visa Signature® Credit Cards

Earn a $100 Statement Credit

After spending $1,000 on your card within 90 days of account opening.

• Advice back All Advice Travel Auto Money Home Life
• Destinations back All Destinations Northeast States Southeast States Central States Western States Mid-Atlantic States National Parks Road Trips International Travel Inspiration
• Connect back All Connect Community Stories Authors & Ambassadors
• Guides back All Guides Doing Your Taxes Protecting Your Valuables Winter Driving Buying and Selling a Car Buying and Selling a Home Getting Organized Home Improvement Improve Your Finances Maintaining Your Car Saving Money Staying Healthy Traveling
• Series back All Series AAA World Garden Road Trips Member News AAA's Take Good Question Car Reviews AAA Traveler Worldwise Foodie Finds Minute Escapes

WHETHER YOU’RE DISCOVERING YOUR ROOTS OR BRANCHING OUT TO OTHER DESTINATIONS, THESE TIPS WILL HELP YOU MAKE EVERY TRIP MORE MEMORABLE

June 03, 2024 | 4 min read.

Black Americans have been traveling ambitiously for generations. Trains, buses and cars helped Black families move up North and out West during the Great Migration that occurred between the 1910s and 1970, and those same vehicles took us back down South to visit family and friends. The Green Book, a guidebook for Black drivers during segregation, made road trips much safer and even offered information on Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. Then as the Civil Rights Era progressed, air travel desegregated, making going overseas more possible.

Today, the Black travel market is robust. Black American travelers spent $109.4 billion on domestic leisure trips in 2019, according to a report by research firm MMGY Travel Intelligence.

Despite the resilience of Black travel, the community faces risks on the road. Black drivers are more likely to be stopped and searched than their white counterparts, according to research from New York University and Stanford University published in 2020, and some of these stops have become violent if not fatal. Discrimination also happens during air travel and in certain destinations, prompting the NAACP to issue travel advisories.

Traveling while Black can be challenging, both in the US and abroad. Here are some helpful strategies for planning trips in a way that’s not just safe but also enjoyable, educational and deeply personal.

1. LEARN YOUR DESTINATION’S BACKSTORY Tapping into a place’s Black history can turn a regular outing into something more memorable. Black resorts in Atlantic City, New Jersey; Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts; and Sag Harbor, New York—among others—were havens for Black families during the early to late 20th century. And, although the Green Book has been out of publication for decades, some hotels that were listed in it are still here and sharing their stories, like The Historic Magnolia House in North Carolina. Famous Black authors, artists and activists who traveled abroad during the 20th century continue to inspire people’s trips today, like Maya Angelou and Malcolm X in Accra, Ghana, or James Baldwin and Josephine Baker in Paris.

2. USE THE MODERN-DAY ‘GREEN BOOK’ The Black Travel Movement—an online community that encourages Black people to travel far and wide—does what the Green Book once did: It keeps Black travelers informed, connected and safe. Leading the movement is Nomadness Travel Tribe, a 70,000-follower Facebook group that’s been around since 2011. It’s one of the best ways to get useful intel in real time and connect with people who will be on the ground wherever you’re heading. There’s also The ABC Travel Green Book by diversity consultant Martinique Lewis, an updated version of the original Green Book that’s international in scope and also available as an app.

AAA Travel Advisors can provide vacation planning guidance to make your next trip unforgettable. Find a Travel Advisor

3. FIND BLACK SERVICE PROVIDERS Black hoteliers, restaurateurs and tour guides can tell local stories and acquaint you with the global African diaspora. A great resource for finding Black-owned businesses (BOBs) is the Black Elevation Map. The ABC Travel Green Book is full of BOBs, too.

4. CONSIDER YOUR ROOTS Heritage trips to Africa can be especially transformative. Many Black Americans struggle to trace our roots on paper, in part because during slavery and segregation, we were barred from voting, marrying, owning property and doing other things that carried official documentation. That’s where a DNA test can fill in some gaps and introduce us to places in Africa of meaning to us. There are companies that specialize in this type of trip-planning.

5. OR BRANCH OUT FROM YOUR ROOTS In addition to celebrating the African diaspora, the Black Travel Movement shows that Black people can travel anywhere and everywhere. Social media can help you find knowledgeable Black expats in places like South Korea or Turkey that see relatively few Black visitors.

6. SPEAK UP ABOUT DISCRIMINATION Members of Nomadness routinely discuss their positive and negative experiences on planes, in hotels and on the ground in their destinations. It’s designed to be a safe space to talk about discrimination, and the more we talk openly, the better we can help each other. Many influencers also share their opinions on traveling while Black, as Emmy-winning media personality Oneika Raymond does on her blog and on Instagram.

The logistics of travel may have changed a lot over the last few generations, but for Black Americans, the tradition of travel is strong as ever. The digital connections between us will open up more destinations for years to come.

• facebook share
• link share Copy tooltiptextCopy1
• link share Copy tooltiptextCopy2

8 Mistakes to Avoid When Using ATMs Internationally

13 Packing Hacks for Your Next Beach Vacation

The Best Beaches in the US, According to Dr. Beach

Related articles.

3 Destinations Where I Felt Safe As A Black Traveler

4 Tips For Planning Solo Travel

Top Destinations for Solo Travel

Limited Time Offer!

Please wait....

How AAA Members Can Save Big Money When Traveling

I f you're a frequent traveler, you're no stranger to all the ways you can save money so you can travel more often. From travel credit card perks to airfare booking strategies , you've probably got it all figured out. However, you might be surprised when we say that if you're not a AAA (American Automobile Association) member, you might be missing out on amazing deals.

AAA is a non-profit organization -- technically a federation of motor clubs -- that is dedicated to enhancing its members' travel experiences throughout the U.S.A. It offers a range of benefits that can significantly contribute to cost savings for your trips while also providing peace of mind while on the road.

Perks range from 24/7 roadside assistance to exclusive discounts on car rentals and hotel stays. However, you won't just get perks for road trips -- AAA will also take to the skies with you with deals on airfare and travel abroad with all-inclusive trips to Mexico , the Caribbean , and beyond.

AAA 'S Membership Tiers Offer Great Value For Travelers

Since it was established in 1902, AAA has reliably served travelers across the United States. Now, with a century of experience, it has become a trusted organization best known for its comprehensive travel services.

AAA offers three main membership levels: Classic, Plus, and Premier, all with incredible perks. The Classic membership is the basic tier, but there's nothing simple about it. This tier still provides all the essential services, such as roadside assistance, $60 dollars toward locksmith services, and access to travel resources. However, it also includes discounts on rental cars, identity theft protection, and expedited passport and travel visa services.

The second-tier Plus membership includes all of that but simply in greater amounts. For example, you get 100 miles of towing (whereas Classic provides 7), emergency fuel delivery that is completely free (including the fuel), along with 50% off European travel guides.

The Premier membership offers the highest level of coverage and benefits and includes everything from the Plus and Classic tiers with even greater discounts. Premier members can expect to receive amazing extras like one-day free car rentals and concierge services for those bougie budget-conscious travelers.

Membership costs will vary depending on your zip code and the level chosen. For example, the Classic tier in California costs around $36 per year but in neighboring Arizona goes up to $65. No matter the cost, considering the potential savings and benefits, the value received should make it worth your while.

Get Great Discounts On Travel With AAA

Through its extensive network of partnerships, AAA members can save a trunkload of money. As a member, you will gain access to a wide range of discounted travel options, including all-inclusive resort or cruise packages or piecemeal -- if you like to book things separately -- hotel accommodations, car rentals, and airfare.

For example, when booking hotel accommodations, AAA members often receive discounted rates that can range from 5 to 10% off the regular prices for hotels chains like Hilton, Best Western, and MGM. This means significant savings on popular hotels and resorts located both in the U.S. and worldwide. You'll even earn loyalty points when you book through AAA , which can be applied towards your next membership renewal.

Similarly, when renting a car, AAA members can benefit from discounted rates (up to 35% on electric vehicles ), free upgrades, and additional perks like fuel discounts with their main partner Hertz or budget car rental companies like Thrifty and Dollar. AAA will even waive the additional driver and young renters fees if you're between the ages of 20 to 24.

AAA Offers Members Expert Travel Planning Support

While all the roadside assistance is great for long road trips, what really makes the organization stand out is that it's actually the largest travel agency in the U.S. Their advisors are available to chat with you in-person or virtually. AAA travel agents won't just help you plan an amazing trip but they can also find you the best deals through their exclusive discounts.

If you're thinking about planning a road trip , AAA also offers their own travel app called TripTik. This is an interactive road trip planning tool that can help you plan out stops along your route for gas and rest stops, restaurants, hotels, and attractions. If you need some inspiration, the app also has 600 pre-planned scenic drives including recommended stops.

For those who enjoy the analog versions of things, AAA is one of the few organizations that still offer paper maps to its members for free. However, if you prefer digital, they haven't forgotten you. You can grab AAA's digital TourBooks which provide access to information about destinations across North America and the Caribbean.

Get Everything You Need To Travel In One Place

Now that you know where you want to go, you just have to get there. Luckily, AAA offices can be your one-stop-shop for (almost) all your official documents.

If you know you have air travel planned soon, and you don't have a passport or need to renew it quickly and/or you need a travel visa, head to your nearest AAA office instead of the post office or passport office. With AAA , you can take your passport photos (at a discount for AAA members) and get your passport and visa application expedited through AAA 's connections with RushMyPassport.

If you're planning to drive while abroad, you may also want to consider grabbing an International Driving Permit (IDP). Since a U.S. Driver's License is not accepted in all countries, an IDP is a surefire way to avoid issues. An IDP can also reduce issues with language barriers and it may be required to rent a car. The best part is that with AAA you can get an IDP the same day you apply for only $20, plus additional (but still discounted) fees for the passport photos required for the document.

Lastly, to be prepared for any eventuality that may occur on your trip, you can also purchase automotive and travel insurance through AAA . They partner with Allianz Global Assistance so members can take advantage of insurance policies that cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, and emergency medical coverage.

Read this next: Safety Items You Should Pack For Your Next Road Trip

9 Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers [2024]

Updated : May 29, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, SMS

Table of contents.

• Holland America Cruise Line
• Silversea Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Azamara Cruise Line
• Cunard Cruise Line
• Viking River Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruise Line 
• Celebrity Cruises

How To Avoid Single Supplements 

Book your solo cruise with aaa.

With plenty of ways to mingle with other passengers (or enjoy some quality alone time), going on a cruise alone is the perfect getaway for solo and single travelers .

However, you’ll need to do your research before booking since cruising solo can get expensive. Some cruise lines charge single supplements, which means you'll pay extra when traveling alone and staying in a room that's usually meant for two people.

Luckily, as solo cruising has become more popular, certain cruise lines have started to cater to the needs of guests traveling alone and even offer cabins specifically designed for solo cruisers. 

Read on to discover the best cruise lines for solo travelers. 

1. Holland America Cruise Line

Single cabins: Yes

Solo travel perks: Single Partners Program

AAA Member Benefit: 

• $50 onboard spending credit per person

AAA Vacations ® Benefit:

• 50 Denali Dollars per person on Alaska cruises for Verandah staterooms and above

Known for having some of the best customer service in the industry, it should come as no surprise that Holland America Line is dedicated to providing an exceptional experience to solo travelers onboard their fleet of ships. 

The line’s newest ships—Rotterdam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam—have 12 single staterooms perfect for solo travelers. Each of these rooms is approximately 127-172 square feet and equipped with full-size and modern amenities. Plus, every single cabin boasts an ocean view, so you can enjoy the scenery during your voyage. 

Holland America Line also does a great job at creating an atmosphere of camaraderie on their ships. The Single Partners Program, offered on most voyages, puts on activities, cocktail parties and mixers for singles and solo travelers to mingle during the cruise. Whether you enjoy exercise classes, wine tastings or trivia, you’re sure to meet other travelers with similar interests through this program. 

2. Silversea Cruise Line

Single cabins: No

Solo travel perks : Low single supplements 

AAA Member Benefit:

• Up to $300 per person in onboard credit on select voyages

Smaller cruise lines are great for solo travelers since you’ll see familiar faces throughout your journey, which can make it easier to strike up conversations and form connections with fellow travelers. 

One of the best small cruise lines for solo travelers is Silversea Cruise Line. While they don’t offer single cabins, they have extremely low single supplements of just 25 percent on certain voyages. For reference, most cruise lines have single supplements that are 50 percent to 100 percent of the fare, so Silversea’s rate is very affordable in comparison. 

At the beginning of your voyage, there will be a champagne Welcome Reception which serves as the perfect opportunity to mingle with other solo travelers. During certain journeys, Gentlemen Hosts will be available aboard to welcome solo guests.

3. Royal Caribbean

Solo travel perks : Solo traveler meet-ups 

• Free 8x10 photo per stateroom on 7+ night balcony or suite bookings

AAA Vacations® Benefit :

• Complimentary sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries 
• $25 onboard spending credit per stateroom for six nights or less voyages
• $50 onboard spending credit per stateroom for 7-10 night voyages
• $100 onboard spending credit per stateroom for 11+ night voyages 

Royal Caribbean offers studio staterooms on certain ships that are perfect for solo travelers and adult cruisers . When you book one of these rooms, you can avoid paying the typical single supplement fee. These rooms range from 101 square feet to 199 square feet, and you can choose from an inside stateroom, a virtual balcony stateroom or an ocean-view stateroom with a balcony. 

Studio staterooms are available on the following ships in their fleet: 

• Anthem of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas 
• Harmony of the Seas 
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas

Once onboard, Royal Caribbean offers a ton of on-board activities, shows and dining experiences that make it ideal for solo travelers. Plus, they often have meet-ups for solo travelers looking to make friends while onboard. 

4. Azamara Cruise Line

Single cabins : No

Solo travel perks : Special rates as low as 25-50% off stateroom fares and gatherings for solo travelers 

AAA Member Benefit :

• $150 per stateroom onboard credit on select Club Ocean View or above sailings.
• Onboard spending credit of $200 per stateroom 

Azamara Cruise Line operates a fleet of mid-sized ships that journey to destinations all over the world. The cruise line is known for its Destination Immersion® experiences that feature intimate ships, access to smaller ports that other cruise ships can’t visit and longer stays at ports. 

Azamara provides special rates for solo travelers as low as 25-50 percent off stateroom fares. Additionally, they offer thoughtfully created activities and gatherings for solo travelers to socialize with each other onboard. 

5. Cunard Cruise Line

Solo travel perks : Group dining, coffee chats and cocktail parties for solo travelers

• Onboard credit for all voyages that are 7 nights and longer 

Cunard is among the best luxury cruise lines , and it’s a great option for solo travelers looking for upscale service, socialization opportunities and elegant staterooms. The cruise line offers single staterooms aboard their Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth ships. During your time aboard, you’ll enjoy 24-hour room service, luxury toiletries and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. 

The cruise line is also known for its delicious culinary options and for going out of the way to ensure solo travelers have an enjoyable dining experience. While you can always choose to dine solo, they also provide the option to dine with fellow travelers at a shared table. Solo travelers can also attend coffee chats and cocktail parties to socialize with other guests. 

6. Viking River Cruises

Solo travel perks : Special solo traveler fares 

• $100 per person shipboard credit for cruises 8-11 days
• $200 per person shipboard credit for cruises 12+ days 

If you’re looking to embark on a solo river cruise in Europe , look no further than Viking River Cruises. The cruise line is known for its immersive journeys sailing through the world’s greatest rivers while offering world-class accommodation, incredible customer service and unique cultural events along the way. 

While Viking doesn’t have single cabins, they will occasionally offer special solo traveler fares. Plus, you can check for other discounts available for the cruises you’re interested in to save money on your travels.  

7. Seabourn Cruise Line

Solo travel perks : Special offers for solo travelers on select voyages 

• Singles receive $150 per suite onboarding spending credit on select sailings 

AAA Vacations® Benefit:

• $200 per suite onboard spending credit on select sailings 

Prefer to feel like you're on a private yacht instead of a cruise ship? The small-ship cruise line, Seabourn provides an intimate experience complete with personalized service, optional shore excursions and entertainment options. 

The cruise line offers a discounted single supplement, beginning at just 10% more than current fares for certain voyages and suite categories. The discount is available for cruises to Alaska , Greece, Iceland, Greenland and more. 

8. Oceania Cruise Line 

Single cabins : Yes

Solo travel perks : Social events and group dining tables

• $100 per person onboard spending credit on select sailings 
• Complimentary pre-paid gratuities
• Free group wine tasting with a sommelier

From friendly crew members to social events, The Oceania Cruise Line goes above and beyond to make solo travelers feel at home on their ships. Solo cruises can attend cocktail parties or opt into group dining to meet other guests onboard. The small ships are also easy to navigate and provide a relaxing atmosphere. 

With solo staterooms available aboard the Vista, Regatta, Insignia, Nautica and Sirena ships, you don’t have to worry about solo supplements driving the price up. The accommodations feature private verandas or ocean-view windows as well as many amenities to keep you comfortable during your voyage. 

9. Celebrity Cruises

Solo travel perks : Hosted social events

• Onboard credit based on the stateroom category booked

Celebrity Cruises is another popular cruise line for solo travelers, offering social events to help solo cruisers make new friends. Known for its inclusivity, Celebrity Cruises is also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cruise lines in the industry. Their itineraries, such as their Bali, Malaysia and Thailand itineraries, are some of the best cruises for solo travelers looking for excitement and adventure. 

Celebrity’s solo cruise cabins are available on the Celebrity Edge®, Celebrity Apex®, Celebrity Beyond℠ and Celebrity Ascent℠ ships. Solo travelers can choose between an ocean-view room with a veranda and an inside stateroom. All of the solo rooms come with the same products and services as the regular staterooms. 

The easiest way to avoid single supplements is to opt for a cruise line that offers solo cabins. However, if your heart is set on a cruise line or ship that doesn’t have this perk, consider looking out for specials that waive or discount single supplements. You can also try using a roommate matching program that some cruise lines offer, which pairs you in a room with another solo traveler. 

Whether you're looking to book a quick getaway or an around-the-world cruise , embarking on a solo cruise is a rewarding experience offering adventure, relaxation and the freedom to cater your journey around your preferences. Not to mention, you can partake in the many things to do on a cruise and make life-long friends along the way.  

Book your solo cruises with AAA Travel and ensure you’ll have peace of mind during your once-in-a-lifetime trip. With your AAA Membership , you'll receive exclusive deals, onboard spending credits and other perks.

More Articles

Travel like an expert with aaa and trip canvas, get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Travelers cope with crowds and high prices on the busiest day of Memorial Day weekend

Highways and airports are likely to be jammed the next few days as Americans head out for Memorial Day weekend getaways and then return home.

Airports around the country are bracing for the travel rush as Americans head out for Memorial Day weekend. AAA predicts 43.8 million people expected to travel between Thursday and Monday. (AP Video: Tassanee Vejpongsa)

Highways and airports are likely to be jammed this weekend, as Americans head out on Memorial Day weekend getaways. AAA says this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years.

Travelers on Florida’s Turnpike are experiencing relatively light traffic at the start of the Memorial Day weekend, with no major congestion reported, allowing them to focus on their wallets instead of their anxiety about traffic. (AP video by Cody Jackson)

Travelers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport Friday, May 24, 2024, in Salt Lake City. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

• Copy Link copied

Travelers move through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ahead of Memorial Day, Friday, May 24, 2024, in Atlanta.(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Michelle Winters plays the violin as passengers stand in line at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ahead of Memorial Day, Friday, May 24, 2024, in Atlanta.(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Cars drive through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ahead of Memorial Day, Friday, May 24, 2024, in Atlanta.(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Gasoline prices are displayed on a sign outside a service station as the Memorial Day holiday travel period kicks off Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Greenwood Village, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Traffic slowly moves along Interstate 405 on Thursday, May 23, 2024, in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles. Highways and airports are likely to be jammed in the coming days as Americans head out on and home from Memorial Day weekend getaways. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Travelers contended with big crowds and flight delays Friday, which was expected to be the busiest day of the Memorial Day weekend.

More than 6,000 U.S. flights were delayed by early evening on the East Coast, continuing a trend that has tested the patience of travelers all week. Cancellations were more modest, at slightly more than 200, according to tracking data from FlightAware.

There were delays on the highways, too.

Along Florida’s Turnpike, Wallis Tinnie said a traffic accident and road work slowed her drive to an African American history commemoration in the Florida Panhandle, the site in 1816 of the first battle of the Seminole Wars.

“But we’re comfortable with it,” the Miami woman said during a stop at Port Saint Lucie. “We left early, and our event is tomorrow. So hopefully — God willing, creek don’t rise — we’ll be there in plenty of time.”

The Transportation Security Administration predicted that Friday would be the busiest day of the holiday weekend for air travel, with nearly 3 million people expected to pass through airport checkpoints . TSA screened just under 2.9 million people Thursday, coming within about 11,000 of breaking the record set on the Sunday after Thanksgiving last year.

Pasha Pidlubniak waits for a domestic flight at Miami International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

“Airports are going to be more packed than we have seen in 20 years,” AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said.

Highways also are likely to be jammed as motorists head out of town and then return home. AAA predicted this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years, with 43.8 million people expected to roam at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday — 38 million of them taking vehicles.

The annual expression of wanderlust that accompanies the start of the summer travel season is happening at a time when Americans tell pollsters they are worried about the economy and the direction of the country.

“Memorial Day is a holiday weekend. I get to hang with family and friends, so I’d say that’s priceless, right?” Nene Efebo said during a two-hour wait for a delayed flight at Denver International Airport. “Anything to hang out with family and friends.”

Victoria Ramos Valdes of Miami was taking a driving vacation with her husband, Blake, and their children, ages 3 and 4 months old.

“We said, hey, we’re going to go for a $300 budget, and the hotel is around $150,” she said, but it has a water slide, providing plenty of entertainment. “We’re taking a nice family trip and doing our best to have the best Memorial Day weekend possible.”

Some travelers reported experiencing sticker shock when they booked their trips. Upon arriving at Philadelphia International Airport, Ciarra Marsh said the city “was not our original destination, but we chose here because it was cheaper.”

At Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, Larisa Latimer of New Lenox, Illinois, said her airfare was reasonable but other expenses for a getaway to New Orleans were not.

Motorists travel along Interstate 24 near the Interstate 40 interchange Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. A record number of Americans are expected to hit the pavement over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

“I just have to make the accommodation,” she said. “The rental car is up ... this year, the hotel accommodations were very unusually expensive.”

Kathy Larko of Fort Myers, Florida, used frequent-flyer miles — and some flexible scheduling — to pay for her trip to Chicago.

Travelers wait at a TSA checkpoint at the Los Angeles International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Los Angeles. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

“I’m really conscious of looking at the cost of the entire trip. We’re staying a little farther out than we normally would” to get a lower hotel rate, she said. “We’re also flying back a day later, because we could get cheaper miles.”

The weekend’s highway traffic and crowded airports could be a sample of what is to come for several more weeks. U.S. airlines expect to carry a record number of passengers this summer. Their trade group estimates that 271 million travelers will fly between June 1 and August 31, breaking the record of 255 million set – you guessed it – last summer .

George Ridley, 4, left, rides on a suitcase as he and his father Chris Ridley make their way through the Nashville international Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

This story was previously updated to correct the spelling Fort Myers, Florida.

Cody Jackson in Port Saint Lucie, Florida, Melissa Perez Winder in Chicago and Shelley Adler in Washington contributed to this report.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

TSA screens record number of travelers as Memorial Day weekend kicks off

Jaclyn Diaz

Motorists travel westbound along Interstate 40 on Thursday in Nashville, Tenn. A record number of Americans are expected to hit the pavement over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. George Walker IV/Getty Images North America hide caption

America is back, baby.

Airports and roadways are expected to be jam-packed during the Memorial Day weekend, making up for travel lost during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new analysis from AAA. But severe and potentially destructive storms forecast for the Plains, Midwest and mid-South through Memorial Day weekend may dampen the fun.

On Friday, Transportation Security Administration officers screened 2,951,163 passengers at checkpoints nationwide — breaking the agency's record for most travelers screened in a single day. The previous record was set last year a few days after Thanksgiving on Nov. 26.

But it doesn't stop there. The TSA expects that from Thursday to Sunday, more than 18 million passengers and crew will be screened — up 6.4% compared to the same time last year.

AAA projects 43.8 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home from Thursday, May 23 through Monday, May 27 — "the second highest Memorial Day weekend that we've ever tracked" and up 4% from last year, Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman for AAA, told NPR.

About 38.4 million people are projected to drive over Memorial Day weekend — "the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000," the organization said.

Another 3.5 million people will take to the skies.

AAA says this indicates America is back to pre-pandemic travel numbers. "Not only that, but we're surpassing them," Diaz said.

"A lot of people are wanting to get away to sort of get that first taste of summer. But also this continues this pattern of post pandemic travel," Diaz said. "It started off as revenge travel right after the pandemic around like 2021, 2022. But what we've really seen the past couple of years is that more people now are prioritizing travel."

Motorists travel westbound along Interstate 40 on Thursday in Nashville, Tenn. A record number of Americans are expected to hit the pavement over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. George Walker IV/AP hide caption

Tips to prepare for bad weather and traffic

Bad weather, including thunderstorms, wildfires and even snow, is forecast to hit areas including Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Montana as "multiple jet stream disturbances tap into warm and humid air," Weather.com said citing outlooks from NOAA's Storm Prediction Center.

Threats this weekend also include tornadoes, damaging wind and hail. This is all set to come after a tornado swept through Iowa earlier this week killing four people and injuring at least 35.

Despite this, most travelers have already left or are planning to leave on Friday.

"So right now we're in the thick of it," Diaz said. The best chance to avoid jam packed roads is to "avoid hitting the road during those rush hour times when many people who are still going to work on Thursday and Friday, are mixing with travelers on the roads," she said.

Diaz also recommends travelers "try to leave as little to chance as possible."

That means heading to the airport at least two hours early, preparing for long TSA lines, gassing up vehicles before hitting the interstate and packing cars with an emergency kit (filled with snacks, extra water and blankets).

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season will be 'extraordinary,' forecasters warn