(BPT) - Gap years are historically associated with recent high school or college graduates who seek to explore and recharge before life's demands take over. But, who says there is a set age for this experience? If you're craving adventure, purpose and a pause from the nine-to-five hustle, it might be time to consider taking an adult gap year - or just a month or two - to discover the benefits of tapping out. More than 80% of U.S. workers experience workplace stress and over half say it impacts their home life. With burnout on the rise, an adult time-out could make a world of difference emotionally, physically and spiritually.
"We're seeing more people prioritize their work-life balance and nowadays, the standard week or two of vacation is no longer cutting it to return to the office truly restored," said AARP Services Director of Travel Steve Guilday.
Whether it's planned way in advance or a spur of the moment decision, an AARP membership can help you save throughout your open-ended journey. "No matter how long your extended leave lasts, an AARP membership offers a way to help you plan smarter and save more when taking a break from the daily grind," said Guilday.
Max out the experience, not your credit card
Taking extended time off to combat burnout, pursue a passion, travel or all of the above, requires careful consideration of finances and your career, plus a plan on how to make the most of your time off. AARP members get exclusive deals, seasonal offers and special savings by booking through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia, including a $50 gift card of your choice when you book any flight package. For a limited time, members can take advantage of 9 curated trips created specially for AARP members to experience the joy of travel with the perfect mix of city life and coastal tranquility. For those bringing a furry friend along for the ride, make it easy when you stay at thousands of pet-friendly hotels, such as La Quinta® by Wyndham and Baymont® by Wyndham. AARP members save 20% off the standard rate when booking at least seven days in advance and selecting the "Pay Now & Save, Non-Refundable" option. Or, you can save 10% off the standard rate and get flexible booking when you select the "AARP Members: Save 10%" rate.
If your plans are taking you abroad, make sure to double-check that all your travel documents are up-to-date. While you can travel up to six months before its expiration date, many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. If your passport needs to be renewed, even expediting it can take two to three weeks, so begin the process with enough time in advance. AARP members and their families can save 15% on expedited U.S. passport and travel visa services through RushMyPassport. This perk offers expedited options for all passport types and customer support to simplify the process of obtaining travel documents.
Plan your adventure, choose your route
A grown-up gap year not only affords the opportunity to see new places and meet new faces, but it gives you the time to do so at your own leisure and pace. Explore the scenic routes and add in a spontaneous stop or two by choosing to explore destinations through a road trip adventure. In fact, if you're a road warrior then consider the centennial anniversary of U.S. Route 66, the Mother Road of the United States, next year and travel across eight states. With an AARP membership, save up to 35% off base rates with Avis and Budget when choosing the Pay Now option at reservation or up to 30% off when you choose to Pay Later at the pickup counter. Plus, members receive a 3% credit to apply to future rentals, a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (subject to availability) and an additional driver at no extra cost.
For additional savings while on the road, link your AARP membership with your Exxon Mobil Rewards+™ account to earn extra points on everyday purchases like fuel, car washes and convenience store items, plus 2x the points on fuel on member days. AARP members who are new to the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ program also get a 500-point welcome bonus after their first fill-up. Every 100 points equals $1 in savings redeemable on fuel, car washes or store items. Use the Exxon Mobil Rewards+™ app or your phone number and PIN at the pump once linked.
Secure yourself and your home while you explore
Even with everything planned and seemingly perfectly prepped, unexpected issues can come up back at home while you're miles away. Don't leave the protection of your home up to chance: AARP members can save 5% on monthly 24/7 ADT Professional Monitoring. ADT offers customizable security to fit your unique needs, and this special member offer is combinable with their other smart home security promotions. Some restrictions apply.
Accidents and injuries can happen. Most travel medical coverage will only get you to the "nearest adequate" facility. If you prefer to be treated at a hospital at home, to get you back on your feet, look into an air medical transport membership like Medjet. As an AARP member, you can save up to 20% on MedjetAssist memberships which cover medical transfers, including all transport costs, when you're more than 150 miles from your home. Their MedjetHorizon adds worldwide crisis response benefits, including security evacuation if necessary.
Taking extended time off doesn't mean you have to feel the pinch once you're back home thanks to an AARP membership. To learn more about additional discounts for AARP members, visit AARP.ORG/SAVE.