For some people, spring is more than just a season between winter and summer. It is a rite of passage in which many families embark on family vacations, college students travel for spring break from classes, and people find events and outings to attend after being cooped up indoors all winter. If you are thinking about planning a trip, you may find the most help from your local AAA chapter. You can make your next and future vacations more pleasurable if you make use of the services they offer. You may even find that the AAA offers benefits that you may not find elsewhere, and any assistance you may need while at home or on the road is available through a toll-free number that is available around the clock.

What is the AAA?

The AAA, or American Automobile Association, is a nonprofit organization comprised of motor clubs across the country that are independently owned and operated. This organization is known across America for being the premier source for help with travel planning, directions, roadside assistance, and other benefits. In order to take advantage of its many benefits, you need to be a member. To gain membership, you should contact your local or regional office for information. Many people have depended upon the AAA to help them organize their trips and to find alternate routes to their destinations. Other people acquire membership strictly for the roadside assistance benefits and rarely if ever use the other services.

Trip Planning and Itineraries for Spring

Many people use AAA for driving directions or for an itinerary for all types of vacations. You can assemble itineraries that will accommodate the entire family or just the single person on sabbatical. You can get estimates for the amount of time it would take to reach your travel destination and which routes would be the best ones to take. If you are traveling to another state or region, you can get information about the weather conditions of your destination as well as information about lodging, attractions, dining, and entertainment. Some offices can even give you information about road closings and detours and offer alternative routes you can take or you can request a more scenic route to take if you desire.

Things You Should Know About the AAA

Before you take advantage of AAA services, you should make sure that you fully understand the terms and conditions. Since each office is independently owned, terms will vary from office to office. One office may provide towing free of charge for a specific number of miles and another office may offer the same thing for a larger number of miles. One office may provide towing to an auto repair shop of your choice while others may only provide free towing to an auto repair shop that is approved by them. Some offices provide free general car maintenance to its members and others do not. You should also be sure to explore the additional benefits provided to you through your membership. Services such as shopping discounts, emergency cash acceptance, and a travel agency are just some of the features you can use while vacationing. Be sure to check through your local office for the benefits that are available to you in your area.