(BPT) - The verdict is in, Punxsutawney Phil said spring is early this year - and that means it's time to start planning for spring travel. While the goal of most trips is to relax, sometimes the cost of those trips and the planning that goes into it can be sources of stress. According to a recent Forbes Advisor Survey, nearly half of American travelers are likely to change their travel plans in 2024 due to high costs and inflation.

Vacation expenses can pile up, from airfare, hotels, car rentals and even healthcare needs, turning relaxing getaways into travel headaches. But not for AARP members, according to Steve Guilday, AARP Services Travel Director.

'The goal of a vacation is to take your mind off of your everyday stressors and AARP members have the opportunity to save critical dollars on some of the typically hefty travel expenses by utilizing their benefits,' said Guilday. 'Whether traveling solo or with family and friends, AARP member benefits provide the savings you need to kick up your feet and enjoy that trip away from home.'

1. Dream Savings at Resorts

If resort life is calling you but you don't want to break the bank, AARP members can save up to 10% off the best available rate at Hilton Hotels, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Choice Hotels. At Hilton, members receive late check-out until 2 p.m. when available. Add your AARP membership number to your Hilton Honors profile to ensure AARP rates surface when booking and to get instant Hilton Honors Silver status at all Hilton hotels, including Hampton by Hilton and Embassy Suites. Wyndham Rewards^® members earn points on qualified stays and receive exclusive members-only perks. From all-inclusive and beachfront getaways to road trip-ready locations, there's a Hotel by Wyndham waiting to welcome you, including Trademark Collection^®, La Quinta^® and Wyndham Grand^®. With Choice Hotels, explore nearly 7,500 of their locations worldwide, including Country Inn & Suites, Cambria Hotels, Comfort Inn & Suites and Quality Inn.

2. Say Goodbye to Stress and Anxiety

Meditation and mindfulness have benefits that have become a core focus for people in recent years. According to FinancesOnline, approximately 200-500 million people engage in meditation worldwide, taking advantage of these mental and emotional benefits every single day. Meditation and calming your mind can also contribute to a more restful sleep. Many people have a hard time sleeping when they're away from home, but you can get a good night's rest and clear your mind while traveling with the click of a button by downloading Calm. AARP members receive an annual 30% off the first three years of their Calm Premium annual subscription, to help you get the relaxing sleep you need during your trip, or the night before a big departure.

Looking for another way to unwind? Wyndham Hotels & Resorts offers access to spa deals and packages at select locations across the world, including Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, FL, and Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa in Tucson, AZ. Choose from blissful treatments like massages, facials, body wraps and more.

3. Great Deals for Reliable Wheels

Whether you're looking to explore nearby local spots or traveling afar to view this year's solar eclipse on April 8, Avis and Budget take the load of expensive car rentals off your shoulders to help you explore new destinations.

AARP members save up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% when selecting Pay Now and will receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, members get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability), and an additional driver at no cost.

4. Feel Good When You're on the Go

The cost of prescriptions should be the last thing on your mind when you're preparing for a vacation. AARP^® Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum Rx^® can help keep the costs of those prescriptions down, so you can spend your money on fun excursions or a relaxing spa day at your destination. AARP members and nonmembers can get a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide for savings on FDA-approved medications. AARP members also receive additional benefits, like deeper discounts on medications, home delivery, coverage for dependents and more.

Before you leave for your spring trip, consider getting your hearing checked so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. With AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare^® Hearing, members can save an average of $2,000 per pair on prescription hearing aids and 15% on accessories - no insurance needed! Plus, receive a no-cost hearing exam and consultation with personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing care professionals. Whether your destination is tranquil nature or the middle of a bustling city, vacation is better when you can hear the world around you.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for spring travel, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.