Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!

Even though windshield wipers are critical for safe driving, we tend to not think about them until it’s raining or snowing. It’s only after you flip them on and streaks spread across your windshield that you remember it’s time for new ones.

We asked Justin Fortier, general manager of AAA Approved Auto Repair facility Fortier’s Auto Sales & Service in Fall River, Massachusetts, exactly how often to replace windshield wipers.

He recommends at least once a year, and twice is probably better.

“I replace mine in the fall and the spring,” he said.

At Fortier’s shop, wipers usually come up when a customer is getting the oil changed. The technician may notice that the wipers are worn or are cracked while cleaning the windshield.

“The average customer doesn’t mention wipers unless it’s raining,” he said. “They put it out of their minds.”

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windshield Wipers

• Wearing occurs when the blade’s square rubber edges become rounded. This happens after extensive use.
• Splitting occurs when ultraviolet rays from the sun penetrate the blade’s rubber squeegee, causing it to break down and separate from the blade frame.
• Streaking occurs when the wiper’s rubber squeegee dries, hardens and cracks.
• Skipping occurs when the blade develops a curvature due to underuse.

Conditions That Influence Windshield Wiper Efficiency

Wear and tear, infrequent cleaning and environmental factors can all affect windshield wiper performance. Fortier suggests using alcohol to clean the blades regularly to help maintain them.

Ice and snow can take a toll on wipers, especially if the wipers freeze to the windshield. Before a snowstorm, Fortier recommends you stand your wipers upright, but when it is time to put them down, do so slowly; people have broken their windshields by dropping the wipers onto the glass.

Another tip to save your wipers when the temperature drops: Turn the wipers off before shutting off the car. If you don’t and the wipers freeze to the glass, they could break or the windshield could shatter when you turn the car on.

Replacing Wiper Blades

When it’s time to replace your windshield wipers, “try to get a name brand with a guarantee,” advised Fortier. An autobody shop could help you put them on if you are not comfortable tackling the task on your own.

AAA members get discounts at NAPA Auto Parts, online and in select stores.

Do you replace your windshield wipers often enough? Tell us in the comments.

For auto repair and maintenance you can trust, find a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near you. With savings up to $75 per visit on labor, it’s a service that essentially pays for your membership.

For answers to more of your car questions, check out our Ask a Mechanic series.

Expansive beaches, rocky shores, miles of hiking trails, charming towns, gourmet seafood — it’s all yours to enjoy on a road trip along the Bay of Fundy coast in New Brunswick, Canada. About a 200-mile drive can give you a taste of all this amazing region has to offer.

Located east and northeast of Maine, New Brunswick is a proud mix of Indigenous, Acadian (French), English, Irish and Scotch cultures that define the province, along with its seafaring history, all of which are on display as you take to the roads.

Use this TripTik Travel Planner to help you navigate your adventure.

Launch From Saint Andrews by-the-Sea

A good place to start your journey is Saint Andrews by-the-Sea. Book a whale-watching cruise and stroll around historic Water Street.

Sample the area’s renowned fresh lobster and seafood, then dive into the fascinating world of local marine life at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre. At the Fundy Discovery Aquarium, you can interact with local sea creatures through touch tanks and engaging exhibits.

Afterward, relax at Algonquin Resort Saint Andrews by-the-Sea Autograph Collection, a historic hotel featuring a spa, pool and breathtaking views of Passamaquoddy Bay.

Explore the Bay of Fundy and the City of Saint John

Continue your journey by driving east about 60 miles to the City of Saint John.

New Brunswick’s famous Bay of Fundy boasts the highest tides in the world, reaching up to 52 feet. For an unforgettable experience, you can walk on the bay floor three hours before and three hours after the low tide mark. You can also go kayaking on the Bay of Fundy or Saint John River, but before any tidal activities be sure to check the tide schedule.

Book a kayaking adventure with AAA.

While you are here, you have to see the Reversing Falls Rapids, another amazing natural phenomenon that happens twice a day when the bay reaches high tide and its powerful waters collide with Saint John River and reverse the river’s flow.

Discover the city of Saint John through three self-guided historic walking tours that focus on Loyalist history, architecture and residential history. Explore the Saint John City Market, the oldest continuously operating public market in Canada. Browse unique local vendor booths at the Area 506 Waterfront Container Village and stop by the Saint John Arts Centre.

Ready for a bite and a drink? There is something for every taste bud and budget. Saint John has more than 80 bars and restaurants within a 10-block radius in the city. Seafood, of course, is at the top of many menus.

Diners might also want to try dulse, a dried red seaweed. Eaten plain or mixed in with other foods like salads and sandwiches, the dulse harvested from the Bay of Fundy is said to be the best in the world.

If you are a beer drinker, take a tour of the Moosehead brewery, Canada’s oldest family-owned independent brewery.

After a busy day, retreat to Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John to call it a night.

Fun for the Whole Family in Moncton

After you bid the City of Saint John goodbye, continue driving east and stop in the town of Moncton, in the area known as the Hub of the Maritimes. Sample local spirits at the Magnetic Hill Winery, one of 19 wineries in New Brunswick.

If you are traveling with children, head to Magic Mountain, Atlantic Canada’s biggest waterpark, with waterslides, a lazy river and wave pool, plus games and golf.  For a drier outing, visit Magnetic Hill Zoo, a 40-acre park home to more than 60 native and exotic species of animals and a fun zone with inflatables.

Book a hotel near Moncton.   

More of New Brunswick’s Natural Wonders

Next, it’s off to the show-stopper — Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, where the beach features more than 20 sea “stacks” of rocks shaped over thousands of years by the highest tides in the world. Visitors can descend stairs (99) or use a ramp to get to the sea bottom at low tide. When the tide is in, kayak around and through the sea stacks for amazing views. The admission fee covers two full days, so visitors can experience high and low tides.

Book your visit to Hopewell Rocks with AAA.

Fundy Trail Provincial Park is another New Brunswick icon you don’t want to miss. As you head back home, take the scenic Fundy Trail Parkway down along the coast and find waterfalls, beaches, hiking and biking trails and inspiring lookouts along the way.

So, bring your explorer’s spirit, hiking boots and a passion for seafood as you set out on your Fundy Coast road trip. Book now.

Featured image: Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park

Amsterdam may have once taken on a mythical quality for those who have never visited. Too often, the capital city of the Netherlands was portrayed either as a quaint land of tulips, windmills and wooden shoes or as a party destination with a wild nightlife. 

The true identity of Amsterdam is more vibrant and nuanced than either of these caricatures, of course. Amsterdam is one of the rare European cities that has a contemporary feel while still retaining its old-world charm. The city is dotted with welcoming cafes, inviting parks and cultural attractions. It is eminently walkable and even easier to travel by bike, with great public transportation also available.

Amsterdam is also considered one of the safer large cities in Europe, and many of its inhabitants speak at least some English, making it a welcoming destination for U.S. families.

If you ever have the good fortune to visit, here are some suggestions for what to do in Amsterdam.

6 Things to Do in Amsterdam

Take in Museum Quarter

Three of the Netherlands’ most important art museums are within walking distance from each other in this quarter. Rijksmuseum offers an encompassing survey of Holland’s rich art history, including works by Rembrandt and Van Gogh. The Van Gogh Museum features the world’s largest collection of paintings by the famous Dutch painter. Be advised that tickets should be booked well in advance for this museum. For a different vibe, check out the Stedelijk Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Design, which also serves as a community art-making hub.

The Museum Quarter is lined with high-end shops and welcoming cafes. In warm weather months, you also can find great options for outdoor dining and street food.

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Tiptoe Through the Beauty

Tulip season in Holland runs from mid-March to mid-May, and it is truly a sight to behold. If you happen to be in Amsterdam during the height of tulips, be sure to visit Keukenhof botanical garden, one of the largest flower gardens in the world. A short ride from the city, Keukenhof has some 7 million bulbs, making a vibrant backdrop for any trip photo. 

There are windmills in the garden, but there is also the historic Molen van Sloten Windmill within Amsterdam’s city limits. The 1847 mill is still in use today, and both the windmill and a connected museum are open to the public. Also, the bridges spanning Amsterdam’s canal system are picturesque. You can hop aboard one of several canal rides to pass under them all and be given a guided tour of the city’s history.

Walk Through the Markets

Amsterdam has many great opportunities for casual shopping. Most famously, the Albert Cuyp market in the city center is a three-block open-air market with an eclectic mix of wares for tourists and locals alike, and opportunities to snack on Holland’s famous stroopwafels and other foods. The ever-bustling Leidestraat is lined with shops offering high-end fashion at reasonable prices. And if you happen to be in Amsterdam on the holiday of King’s Day in late April, the city itself turns into an open-air market and street festival, with locals selling a little of everything on the sidewalk in celebration of the king’s birthday.

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Experience World War II History

Holland is shaped by its World War II history, and the modern city wears this history in the open. The Anne Frank House provides a haunting glimpse of the city’s most famous refugee. Frank’s diary provided an important history of the horror of the Holocaust. Tickets for this small museum must be purchased in advance, as it is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam.

Also, the Verzets Resistance Museum documents the Dutch resistance movement’s efforts to fight Nazi occupation, as well as the fall of the Dutch colonial empire in the world’s post-war realignment. Throughout the city, you can also find plaques and artwork documenting the city’s wartime history.

Animals Abound

Animal lovers can happily spend the day at Artis Zoo and botanical garden. The zoo has an impressive labyrinth of indoor and outdoor attractions. There you can also find Micropia, a museum dedicated to understanding microbial life. The Artis grounds include a large aquarium, but it is undergoing extensive renovations and will reopen in spring 2026.

Quirky Stops

Of course, Amsterdam does have a quirky and wild side. For family-friendly fare, The Upside Down Amsterdam is a relatively new museum, offering the perfect opportunity for seemingly gravity-defying selfies to send to friends. There also are micromuseums for all sorts of interests, including ones dedicated to Dutch cheesemaking, cat art and even historic smoking pipes.

Amsterdam is a culturally rich destination that is easy to get acquainted with. With so many attractions, however, it may take a lifetime of visits to get to know the city well.

Plan your trip to Amsterdam with a AAA travel advisor. Browse our Amsterdam vacations, then start making your dream trip a reality. Travel advisor services are included with your membership at no extra charge.

Have you ever been? Share your favorite things to see and do in Amsterdam in the comments below.

If you need a break from the grind of everyday life, try shutting down your devices and escaping to the wilderness for some camping and hiking.

The last time I went camping, I turned off my phone for three days. I didn’t read or reply to any emails, liked zero social posts and not once did I hear it ring or ding to notify me of a message. If someone wanted to reach me, they would have had to drive five miles into the piney forest of Massachusetts and hike up a dirt path to my campsite or track my steps along a thin trail snaking beside the shores of a strikingly, seemingly impossibly blue lake.

My feet were dirty, my clothes were slightly damp from the morning dew and my hair gave off the slightest scent of smoke that it had absorbed while my face had been warmed by the glow of the campfire. My senses were rejuvenated through environmental immersion, and – even if only temporarily – I was freed from the constraints of technology, hurry and responsibility.

Here, I was reminded why hiking camping trips are my happy place. It offers a reprieve from the everyday hustle and bustle, a reconnection with nature and reminder of the simplicity of life’s necessities: cooking, breathing clean air, exercising and – perhaps most importantly– relaxing.

Whether getting lost in the woods brings you joy or you prefer enjoying the great outdoors from the comforts of an RV parked in a resort, check out our collection of bucket list-worthy destinations for the best camping and hiking in New England and New York.

Need directions? Let AAA guide the way. 

Camping and Hiking Tips

First-time camper? Take a look at the infographic below for tips on how to survive (literally and figuratively) out in the wilderness.

Novice hikers, we’ve got you covered too. This list of essentials will get you on the trail with all the right gear and supplies needed for a successful hike.

Camping and Hiking in New England

Lake Waramaug State Park
New Preston, Conn. 

On a trip into the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut, you’ll find yourself leaving quaint, small towns in your wake and diving deep into the woods, traveling along winding, hilly, tree-lined roads where acorns ping off the roof of the car and the smells of pine and the countryside waft in through the windows. The area is dotted with picturesque lakes, including Lake Waramaug, upon whose shores you’ll find 76 campsites, some overlooking the water and others hidden within the trees.

There is also a number of cabins on site, for those campers who aren’t quite willing to give up the comforts of the indoors. The campground is open Memorial Day through Labor Day and contains fishing, picnic, swimming and boating facilities, including canoe and kayak rentals.

Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, surrounded by the chilly Atlantic waters off the central Maine coast, Acadia National Park offers world-class hiking on the island’s mountain with dramatic views of the Maine coastline and encircling foliage. There are five different camping and hiking areas in the park, and choosing the right one for your trip depends on the experience you hope to have.

Blackwoods Campground is open year-round, offering traditional tent camping facilities during the warmer months and primitive camping experiences during the off-season, when campers must hike to their sites. Seawall Campground, on the Southwest Harbor, and Schoodic Woods Campground, on the Schoodic Peninsula just southeast of Winter Harbor, offer amenities such as drive-in tent camping and RV accommodation sites.

Those looking for a more rustic, immersive and wilderness-focused experience should make a reservation at Duck Harbor Campground located on Isle au Haut, a smaller island located about 30 miles south of Mount Desert Island. You’ll have to catch a ride on the mail boat to get to this island where you won’t find any vehicles, but instead five fantastically primitive campsites that ooze adventure, each of which includes a lean-to shelter for a tent and a composting toilet.

After you’ve set up camp, head out on the 18 miles of hiking trails that explore the island’s marshes, bogs and mountains. Wildwood Stables Campground is only open to visitors with stock animals.

Cathedral Pines Campground
Eustis, Maine

What makes Cathedral Pines Campground one of the best places for camping in New England? It meets many campers’ criteria for a fabulous and comfortable camping and hiking experience. It’s in the middle of nowhere, provides access to great outdoor activities, and yet still has flushing toilets.

Set within towering red pines in northwestern Maine, and less than 30 miles from the Canadian border, this campground offers a rural outdoors feeling while providing the comforts of bathroom, shower and laundry facilities. There’s also a playground, recreational hall and boating amenities.

Savoy Mountain State Forest
Florida, Mass.

Whether you find yourself among the warm sunshine of the spring and summer months, the stunningly beautiful reds, oranges and yellows of the autumn months, or – if you’re brave enough – the snow in winter, Mother Nature practically guarantees campers in the Berkshires a visually beautiful experience no matter what the season.

Savoy Mountain State Forest offers some of the best camping and hiking in New England. It features 46 campsites, available for reservations seasonally and located below the bowing branches of an apple orchard, as well as four cabins that can be rented year-round.

Campers can choose from a variety of outdoor experiences and adventures, accessible from each of their 50 miles of collective hiking trails. The trails pass through floating bog islands, climb up to overlooks to offer spectacular views and weave through the forest before emerging over cliffs to reveal hidden, crystal clear waterfalls.

Chocorua Camping Village
Tamworth, N.H.

Chocorua Camping Village is the ideal destination for resort-style, all-inclusive family camping and hiking in the woods of the New Hampshire White Mountains. Here you’ll be surrounded by the quieting comforts associated with camping like sprawling lakes, towering pine trees, fire pits and picnic tables.

But, you and the kids will also have access to many activities and amenities, including a game room, movie theater, swimming pool and treasure hunts. Both tent and RV sites are available, and more indoors-y, yet still adventurous campers can rent one of 10 Wabanaki Lodges. These log cabins are accessible only by venturing over a footbridge.

Charlestown Breachway State Park
Charlestown, R.I.

Who says you have to choose between camping and going to the beach? Charlestown Breachway offers campers and beachgoers the best of both worlds. RV-suitable campsites are located right on a man-made breachway that separates the Atlantic Ocean from Ninigret Pond. Campers also have access to the state beach, freshwater fishing and shell fishing. There is even a boat launch on site. Campers must have a self-contained RV (this means no tent camping), as there are no sanitation facilities.

Nickerson State Park
Brewster, Mass.

Nickerson State Park in Cape Cod is a mini paradise. A world away from the crowds, scorching sun and crashing surf of the Cape Cod National Seashore, you’ll discover an enchanting forest refuge offering warm breezes, picturesque hiking trails and private beaches overlooking crystal clear waters of eight kettle ponds, formed thousands of years ago by glaciers and lined with white sand.

You’ll have your pick of more than 400 campsites and access to swimming, boating and fishing facilities, as well as the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a paved bike path that runs through the park. There is also a nature center on site that offers recreational programs and yurt camping options.

Moosalamoo Campground
Salisbury, Vt.

Like Cathedral Pines, Moosalamoo Campground affords campers an outdoor, backwoods getaway without feeling too in the backwoods. The 19 sites, located at the base of Mount Moosalamoo, offer drive-in tent camping, toilet facilities, accessible drinking water and trash disposal. Once on site, campers can challenge themselves on the mountain’s more than 70 miles of nearby trails, which are open for biking, cross-county skiing, hiking, horseback riding and snowmobiling in the winter.

Camping and Hiking in New York

Taconic State Park
Copake Falls, N.Y.

One of the state’s most popular camping spots, Taconic State Park can easily get crowded. So, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Some highlights include standing under Bish Bash Falls, hiking Brace Mountain and walking the famed Appalachian Trail.

Visitors can opt for tents or cabins, which include kitchens and outdoor campfire and picnic areas. Fishing is available at the campground. Deer and turkey hunting is also allowed, but with restrictions. The Copake Iron Works Museum, where visitors can learn about the area’s iron industry, is also nearby.

Letchworth State Park
Castile, N.Y.

Referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth offers a variety of amenities. Swimming, camping, hiking, fishing, lectures and cultural activities are some of the many features it has to offer. The site has camping spots for tents and trailers, but also private cabins and hotel-style lodging.

The park features 66 miles of hiking trails. Horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, biking, swimming, kayaking and whitewater rafting are also available. And, if you’re not afraid of heights, you can see the park from a hot air balloon.

Glimmerglass State Park
Cooperstown, N.Y.

Overlooking Otsego Lake, this area is the one described in James Fenimore Cooper’s “Leatherstocking Tales.” The park offers biking, camping, fishing, hiking and picnicking. In the winter months, there is skiing and ice fishing. The campgrounds include concession stands, a nature trail, pavilions, picnic tables, showers, grills, volleyball courts and fire rings.

Campfire wood is sold in the park. There are also a variety of nearby attractions, such as the Canadarago Boat Launch, Herkimer Home State Historic Site and Hyde Hall State Historic Site.

The Adirondacks
Northern N.Y.

There are plenty of natural wonders to explore at the Adirondacks, from waterfalls and lakes to mountain views and tree-lined hiking trails. Campers will enjoy the privately run Adirondack campgrounds which include lakeside amenities like daily paddleboard rentals. Some sites also offer RV hookups. For a more rugged experience, there are backcountry campsites, which are located a little more than 150 feet away from trails or water sources, and are served by outhouses.

Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen, N.Y.

Considered the most famous of the Finger Lakes state parks, this spot offers 305 campsites with restrooms, showers, dumping stations and firewood for sale. It also offers concession stands, a gift shop, picnic tables and grills, playing fields, an Olympic sized swimming pool, kiddie pool, playgrounds and 19 waterfalls.

Reservations for campsites may be booked nine months in advance for a two-night minimum stay. Visitors to the park can also hike, fish in Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek and hunt in designated areas.

Clarence Fahnestock State Park
Carmel, N.Y.

One of the main draws to this state park is its huge beach at Canopus Lake. For hikers, there are more than 14,000 acres of forest. Fishermen can catch bass, pickerel, perch, brook and rainbow trout in the park’s waters. The site also offers picnic areas, hikes led by park staff, a bridle path for horses, concession areas and more. And in the winter, Fahnestock is a popular locale for sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing and cross-country skiing.

Harriman State Park
Ramapo, N.Y.

Home to more than 47,000 acres, this park is considered the second largest in New York State. The scenic campgrounds include approximately 200 miles of hiking trails, 31 lakes and plenty of quiet, secluded spots for spending the night. The Beaver Pond Campgrounds feature comfort stations, laundry facilities and a dumping station. Activities in the park include fishing, camping and hiking, picnicking and boating.

Hither Hills State Park
Montauk, N.Y.

For those hoping to camp out on the water, this 168-site campground features a 40-acre freshwater lake and two-mile sandy beach. Visitors can also spend the night on oceanfront property. There’s also a self-guided nature trail, sport fishing, opportunities for biking and hiking, picnic areas, woodlands and more. In the summer, Hither Hills offers movies, folk and line dancing, children’s theater and magic shows.

Shut down your smartphone for a few days and appreciate the beauty of nature in the Northeast region. You’ll come back feeling reinvigorated and better than ever.

Need a ride? Get exclusive deals on Hertz car rentals when you book with AAA.

Tell us your favorite camping spot in the the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins June 1 and extends through Nov. 30, is likely to be a busy one.

Colorado State University’s Tropical Weather and Climate Research predicts an “above normal” year, anticipating 17 named storms, four of which could become major hurricanes.

Despite even the most accurate forecasts, it’s hard to pinpoint the property damage total that can result from a hurricane or severe storm. From Katrina to Sandy to Ian, storms continue to make historic benchmarks in losses. Weather and climate disasters in the U.S. from 1980 to February 2025 cost approximately $2.9 trillion in damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Without the right insurance coverage, it can be hard to recover after a hurricane hits. Here are some of the most important things to know about hurricane insurance deductibles.

To speak to a AAA insurance agent about your storm coverage, schedule a call today. 

The History of Hurricane Insurance Deductibles

In 1992, Hurricane Andrew left insurers with $15.5 billion in losses – at the time, the costliest hurricane in U.S. history. From that point, hurricane insurance was determined to be a necessity in coastal areas to help cover high-cost property losses due to storm risks like hail and high winds.

“After the wake-up call of Andrew, insurers in many coastal states began to sell homeowners insurance policies with percentage deductibles for storm damage,” according to the Insurance Information Institute. “These deductibles are stated as a percentage of the insured value of the homes and generally are a higher dollar amount than traditional dollar deductibles used for other types of losses such as fire damage and theft.”

Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have hurricane deductibles. In the Northeast, this includes Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.

It should be noted that hurricane deductibles do not include flooding. Flood insurance must be purchased separately.

What Is a Hurricane Insurance Deductible?

A deducible is the amount of loss paid by the policyholder before insurance kicks in. Percentage deductibles are calculated as a specified percentage of the insured value of your property.

The exact percentage of your hurricane insurance deductible will be noted on your homeowner policy.

In the event a hurricane damages your home, you’ll be responsible for around 1-5% of the insured value before your coverage starts. As explained by the Insurance Information Institute, “If a house is insured for $300,000 and has a 5% deductible, the first $15,000 of a claim must be paid out of the policyholder’s pocket.”

Based on where you live, some insurance companies may offer hurricane deductibles stated as higher dollar amounts or possibly no separate hurricane deductible at all. In both cases, this will be reflected in the premium that’s being charged. You can ask your agent about what options are available to you.

When Does Hurricane Insurance Coverage Kick In?

There are a few things necessary for hurricane insurance to apply. These triggers vary by state and insurance carrier, but a good indicator comes from the National Weather Service. Once a hurricane watch or warning is issued, the intensity level is crucial. The moment a Category 1 hurricane makes landfall is when the deductible becomes applicable.

How Well Do You Understand Your Hurricane Insurance Deductible?

Of the homeowners surveyed in New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Florida 34% had never heard of hurricane deductibles, according to a 2017 report by the Insurance Research Council. It was found that over 25% lacked understanding of basic deductibles and 33% were unsure of the percentage applied.

New Jersey respondents demonstrated the lowest level of awareness and understanding of several hurricane deductible issues, despite the fact that about 346,000 homes in New Jersey were damaged or destroyed by Sandy.

This lack of understanding makes it harder to gain coverage in the aftermath of a hurricane-related event.

Know Your Insurance

When shopping for insurance, always check the financial rating of a company, especially if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes. Catastrophic weather events result in large swaths of damage that may generate large losses for a particular company and can exceed their ability to pay all the claims.

Each state has its own rules regarding hurricane insurance. Talk to your insurance agent to run through all of the technicalities of your policy to make sure you can get the right coverage.

Speak to a AAA insurance agent today.  

Did we help you to better understand hurricane deductibles? Leave a comment below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. —  

Over the past couple of years, Disney parks have been experimenting with different ways for guests to line up for rides. In 2021, they introduced a paid system called Lightning Lane to replace the previous line-skipping option known as FastPass+

At the end of summer 2024, Lightning Lane received a major update that might sound a little familiar to FastPass+ fans.

We went to Walt Disney World in August to figure out how to skip lines at Disney using the Lightning Lane rules.  

Save on Walt Disney World park tickets with AAA Tickets.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass vs. Lightning Lane Single Pass

With Lightning Lane Multi Pass, guests can choose from a variety of attractions, up to three at a time. These attractions might be separated into tiers, depending on which park you visit. After you’ve used all your Lightning Lanes, you may schedule additional attractions, if there are reservations left. The most popular rides in the park probably will not be listed as options in Lightning Lane Multi Pass. But if you want to make sure you ride without a wait, you can get a Lightning Lane Single Pass.

Lightning Lane Single Pass can be used for one ride, one time. At time of writing, Single Pass rides include TRON Lightcycle / Run, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Avatar Flight of Passage and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Make sure to check which rides are available before scheduling your Lightning Lane Single Pass.

How To Use Lightning Lane

Lightning Lane reservations are an additional cost per person, per day, on top of your ticket. The price fluctuates based on the park you’re attending and the anticipated crowd levels, but is usually somewhere between $15 and $25.

Lightning Lane now has rules similar to the way FastPass+ worked before 2021, with rides separated into different tiers and the opportunity to schedule additional reservations throughout the day.

To get the most out of Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Single Pass, you have to know about it before you even walk through the gates. Well, ideally you should know about it seven days before you walk through the gates.

Rules

• If you have a park ticket and are staying at a Walt Disney World hotel, you can make Lightning Lane reservations up to seven days prior to your check-in date, starting at 7 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. You may make Lightning Lane selections for the duration of your stay, up to 14 days. You can do this through the My Disney Experience app.
• Anyone with park admission can book Lightning Lanes three days in advance of their trip, starting at 7 a.m.
• Lightning Lane arrival windows are usually an hour, and they cannot overlap. For example, if your window for Space Mountain ends at 2:30 p.m., you can’t get a Haunted Mansion Lightning Lane that starts at 2:15 p.m.
• However, a la carte Lightning Lane Single Pass purchases can overlap with your Multi Pass Lightning Lanes.
• In Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios, the rides are separated into two tiers. When you are making your original three reservations, you are allowed to choose only one attraction from Tier 1, and two attractions from Tier 2. All Animal Kingdom attractions are in the same tier, so this rule does not apply.
• If you want, you can edit your Lightning Lanes and switch them out with same-tier attractions that have available time slots.

Strategy

Do not use your Disney World Lightning Lanes for shows, parades or nighttime experiences. No matter what anybody tells you, they’re not worth it. It doesn’t change your wait time, and it might not even guarantee you a better view.

Schedule your first three Lightning Lanes as early as possible in the day. This way, you can knock out your original Lightning Lanes fast and have more time to schedule your additional rolling Lightning Lanes.

Don’t see what you want? Refresh the page a few times. Sometimes you’ll find additional time slots that you didn’t see before.

Experience

I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to schedule my Lightning Lane Multi Passes on my trip to Hollywood Studios. I was able to snag reservations for Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Star Tours and Toy Story Mania.

On top of that, I got a Single Pass to ride Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. I was nervous about the return window overlapping with my Runaway Railway pass, which would have been an issue in the FastPass+ days. However, I got scanned in to both attractions with no issue at all.

Plus, since I’d made the reservations days in advance, I didn’t need to wake up early in the morning on my vacation to make sure I was able to do everything I wanted. I even got the opportunity to schedule additional Multi Pass reservations when I was done riding Toy Story Mania. There were only some time slots at select rides left, but I feel like I got my money’s worth by getting to skip a few additional lines.  

The My Disney Experience app had some hiccups, but it ran a lot better than it has in previous years. I paired it with my phone, with my MagicBand+ and with a park ticket at various times throughout my trip, and it worked great no matter what.  

Disney is always introducing new and exciting changes, but it can feel overwhelming at times. To help you navigate your next trip, AAA has travel advisors who specialize in Disney vacations. It’s their job to stay on top of all the latest happenings and help you plan. Reach out to one of our Magic Makers today!

Have you tried the new Disney World Lightning Lane system? Are you still confused about how to skip lines at Disney? Let us know in the comments below.

Are you planning to buy or sell a home? Maybe it’s your first time. If so, you’re probably wondering what to expect on closing day.

In a nutshell, the buyer pays the outstanding balance on the home along with any closing costs and fees. After signing a pile of paperwork, the seller transfers the property over to the buyer, who closes on the mortgage and celebrates becoming a new homeowner.

Simple, right? Not quite!

There are many steps that need to be taken before the big day. Perhaps most important, a buyer will need to be financially prepared, with ample funds to make a down payment, prove creditworthiness and pay closing costs.

On the Day of the Closing

Typically, the buyer, seller, closing attorney and real estate agent attend the closing. Sometimes the mortgage lender sends a representative to attend, too. Mortgage co-signers need to be present. A buyer’s spouse may also need to attend the closing, depending on the state.

What You’ll Need

• Government-issued photo ID.
• Proof of homeowners insurance.
• Cashier’s or certified check.
• Personal checkbook (in case of unexpected, last-minute expenses).
• Keys and security codes for the property (seller).

One thing you can be sure to expect at closing? Lots of paper. Documents to sign include the property deed, bill of sale, promissory note and closing disclosure. Which paperwork you sign depends on the state you’re in, but you can plan on signing a stack of more than 30 documents.

Ideally, buyers are handed the keys to their new home after the closing. Quite often, the move-in date takes place on the same day of the deed recording. Depending on what city or county you’re in, it may take up to a few days.

Sometimes, a specific move-in date will be set in the purchase agreement. Ask your realtor about your move-in date well in advance of the closing. Also, try to schedule the closing in the morning and earlier in the week so there is enough time to record the deed with the city or county.

Closing Costs Explained 

Closing costs can be substantial. They may include origination fees, appraisals, taxes, surveys, title searches, recording fees, credit reports, attorney’s fees, home inspections and homeowners insurance. Buyers often go into sticker shock when they see the total closing-day bill.

Sellers may also have closing expenses such as utility bills and real estate agent commissions. Closing costs are paid for with a cashier’s check, certified check or wire transfer.

To pave the way for a smooth transaction, AAA Northeast mortgage specialist Louis Alfaia suggests buyers first get pre-qualified for a mortgage. “I recommend buyers start with a mortgage company or bank they trust,” he said.

“You’ll meet with a mortgage loan originator or specialist,” said Alfaia. “They’re going to review your income, your assets and your credit profile. In doing so, they’ll qualify you and tell you what you can finance. Once that’s done and you have your prequalification in hand, you start shopping for your home.”

Learn more about the benefits of prequalifying for a mortgage.

Once a buyer is pre-qualified, they move to the next step: pre-approval. A pre-approval gives the buyer a competitive edge, as sellers know are serious and likely to be approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval typically lasts for up to 90 days, Alfaia said.

He warns buyers not to make any major financial changes leading up to the closing. Examples include changing or quitting jobs, making large purchases or opening a new line of credit.

Sometimes buyers get excited and go out and buy new home items on credit, Alfaia said. This is a big no-no. “If you go out and get a credit card to purchase furniture, it can affect your credit and your ability to repay the mortgage. You’ve just added debt to the scenario.”

Timing Is Key

The purchase and sale agreement is completed soon after the buyer’s offer is accepted. It specifies the final sale price, the closing date, the title company and the terms of the earnest money deposit, which can be used as a down payment on the home. “It’s the actual contractual agreement between buyer and seller, with final terms of the purchase,” said Alfaia.

It also lays out what are known as “closing contingencies.” These include dates by when to have your financing approved and when you’ll need to complete a home inspection. “Once you have the signed purchase agreement, you normally have 10 days to do a home inspection,” Alfaia said.

At least three days before the closing, the lender will provide a closing disclosure that further outlines the terms of the mortgage, he said. This document lists closing fees, monthly payments and total balance due. “It’s like a balance sheet,” said Alfaia.

A final walk-through of the home is scheduled very near to closing day. “It’s usually recommended to have it done the day before closing,” said Alfaia, to ensure buyers are getting the property they signed up to purchase.

Learn about AAA home loans.

Do you have any questions or additional tips for what to expect at closing? Leave us a comment below.

In recent years, reports of the prevalence of counterfeit and unsafe car seats and harnesses being sold online have been on the rise, putting children at risk. Unwitting parents might think they’ve found a great price on a name brand car seat only to end up buying a knockoff that hasn’t been crash-tested. Bogus seats might look nearly identical to genuine seats, but a close inspection usually reveals troubling details, such as flimsy plastic, lack of crash-absorbing padding, low-grade belts and weak clasps and clips — all of which mean the child is less protected.

To determine whether a seat is real or counterfeit, AAA Northeast offers parents and caregivers the following tips:

• Genuine seats come with a detailed instruction booklet and registration card, usually tucked inside a compartment or placed on the seat itself in the shipping box.
• All car seats approved for use in the U.S. are clearly marked with regulatory compliance and safety information labels. Approved seats are required to list the manufacturer and date of manufacture and often include an expiration date. Newer seats include QR codes that will take you to the manufacturer’s website. Seats should also include a sticker that states: “This child restraint system conforms to all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards,” as well as a date of manufacture and often an expiration date.
• All car seats sold in the U.S. are required to have a three-point harness.
• Check every label for misspellings, off-center text or odd use of English language possibly caused by poor translation.
• If you’re still uncertain, provide the serial number to the manufacturer and ask for help confirming whether the seat is real or a dupe.

To avoid buying a counterfeit car seat in the first place, parents and caregivers should keep the following in mind:

• Buying car seats directly from the manufacturer is a safe way to avoid unscrupulous sellers.
• If buying from a major retailer, only shop from authorized sellers listed on car seat manufacturer websites.
• If buying online from a store that features a marketplace, make sure the car seat is shipped and sold from the first-party seller, like Amazon or Walmart, not a third-party reseller. A seller’s customer service number should be an 800 number or have a U.S. area code.
• Consider buying a car seat in person from an established retailer.
• Avoid auction, drop-ship and foreign deal sites, like Temu, Wish, eBay and Alibaba, and be skeptical before buying from an advertisement on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok that isn’t clearly from the manufacturer or authorized seller.
• Never buy a used seat from garage or yard sales, Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist since there’s no way to guarantee it hasn’t been involved in a crash.

The PGA Championship, one of professional golf’s four majors, has been played at many of America’s great golf courses. Fortunately, many of the courses are located in the Northeast. In fact, it has been held in the State of New York 13 times, more than any other state. Here are some of the top local PGA Championship Golf Courses, including a few that are open to the public.

Baltusrol Lower Course

Baltusrol Golf Club, Springfield, N.J.

The Baltusrol Golf Club is located at the base of the Baltusrol Mountains in northern New Jersey. It consists of two 18-hole courses – the upper and the lower – but it is the lower course that held the 2005 and 2016 PGA Championships.

Built in 1922, the par-72 course is spread out over rolling parkland. Ponds and other man-made and natural hazards come into play. The course has undergone small renovations over recent years, including minor adjustments to several greens, the lengthening of holes from the tee and re-positioning or adding bunkers.

Bethpage Black

Bethpage State Park, Farmingdale, N.Y.

There are five 18-hole regulation golf courses at Bethpage State Park. The Black course is the most difficult. In 2002, it became the first public course to host the U.S. Open, which returned in 2009. In 2019, it welcomed the PGA Championship for the first time, becoming one of the few public golf courses to have that honor.

Built in 1936 as part of the Depression Era public-works project, the Black Course was designed by famed golf architect A.W. Tillinghast. The course conditions today, however, are largely a product of a major restoration led by architect Rees Jones ahead of the 2002 Open.

Bethpage Black is noted for being one of the most difficult courses in the country, putting every shot to the test. After competing there in 2016, then two-time major champion Jordan Spieth said, “The course is up there with the hardest, probably, top five courses I’ve ever played in my life.”

For those looking for an opportunity to play on a world-class course, this may just be your best opportunity. Not only is it open to the public, but because it’s operated by a government agency (the New York State Parks Department), it offers reasonable fees for a course of its caliber.

Championship at Blue Hill Country Club

Blue Hill Country Club, Canton, Mass.

About 30 minutes south of Boston sits Canton, Mass., home of the Blue Hill Country Club. Blue Hill held the PGA Championship back in 1956.

The Championship Course was designed in 1925 and restored by renowned designer Ron Prichard in 2003. With its tree-lined fairways and lush rolling terrain, this par-72 course remains as picturesque as ever.

Eisenhower Red Course

Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, N.Y.

The Salisbury Golf Club in East Meadow, N.Y., was a prominent golf and social club in the early 1900s. It consisted of five 18-hole courses. But during the Great Depression, the club couldn’t pay its taxes and Nassau County took over the property. It has since been renamed Eisenhower Park and has three courses: Blue, Red and White. The Red Course is the only original course remaining from the Salisbury Golf Club. It also happens to be the course on which Hall-of-Famer Walter Hagen won the 1926 PGA Championship.

While it may not be widely considered among the top courses in the Northeast, Eisenhower Park is open to the public, guaranteeing every golf enthusiast a chance to hit the links where the pros have played.

Oak Hill East

Oak Hill Country Club, Rochester, N.Y.

Located on the outskirts of Rochester, N.Y., Oak Hill Country Club features two courses – East and West. It’s the East course that has hosted the PGA Championship four times – 1980, 2003, 2013 and 2023.

The club has a prestigious history of hosting major golfing events. It is the only golf club to have hosted four PGA Championships, the Ryder Cup, three United States Opens, two United States Amateurs, the United States Senior Open and the Senior PGA Championship.

Shawnee Course

The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort, Shawnee on Delaware, Pa.

Nestled right along the Delaware River – just across the way from northern New Jersey – is the Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort. Back in 1938, the golf world descended on this picturesque resort when its golf course became the setting for that year’s PGA Championship. Nowadays, guests of the resort and the general public are free to go for a round.

The course was the first to be designed by Tillinghast, who would go one to work on more than 260 courses. Shawnee is classically designed and uniquely flat compared to other courses in the surrounding Pocono Mountains. Another distinction is that 24 of its 27 holes are located on an island in the Delaware River.

Wannamoisett Golf Course

Wannamoisett Country Club, Rumford, R.I.

The par-69 course at Wannamoisett Country Club was built in 1914 before hosting the PGA Championship in 1931. Wannamoisett is known as a challenging course to maneuver. It’s built on fewer than 100 acres but is filled with bunkers and small greens. The fairways are lined with thick rough and the large, rolling greens are difficult to read.

Members of the club recently invested $3 million to improve the golf course. This investment enhanced playability for golfers of all skill sets, including the installation of a state-of-the-art computerized irrigation system, the rehabilitation of bunkers and the addition of new forward and back tees.

Winged Foot West

Winged Foot Golf Club, Mamaroneck, N.Y.

About an hour drive north of Manhattan lies the Winged Foot Golf Club, which celebrated its centennial in 2023. The club has hosted several major golf events, including the 2020 U.S. Open and the 1997 PGA Championship. The club consists of two courses, but it’s the West Course that consistently ranks as one of the top golf courses in the country.

Over the past decade, extensive renovations of the golf courses were overseen by Gil Hanse, the preeminent architect of his generation, to restore the greens to their original state. The clubhouse, built in a Tudor architectural style, also received a makeover.

Have you played any of these courses? Let us know in the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Ready to start planning your next theme park outing? From Dollywood to Walt Disney World, the East Coast is home to some amazing parks.

Before you go, don’t forget to check for any discounts or rewards you may be entitled to.

Here are 14 East Coast theme parks you can save on with AAA Tickets.

Six Flags 

There are three Six Flags parks on the East Coast and they are each unique in their own ways.

Six Flags New England

Six Flags New England in Agawam, Mass., is billed as “New England’s most exciting theme park,” featuring Superman The Ride, The Joker 4D Free Fly Coaster, Wicked Cyclone and more. You can also enjoy Hurricane Harbor water park, special events and live entertainment. AAA members can save up to 56% on admission.

Six Flags Great Adventure

Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J., boasts rides like the famous wooden coaster El Toro, the hypercoaster Nitro, THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity super boomerang coaster and the themed coaster Skull Mountain, among others. Check out their special events, like Six Flags Slam Fest, Summer Vibes Festival and Thrill-a-Thon. While you’re there, try their Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure, which features 1,200 animals. AAA members can save up to 56% on admission.

Six Flags Over Georgia

Traveling a little further away from home? Six Flags Over Georgia in Atlanta, Ga., offers rides like the fan-favorite Monster Mansion, the classic Dahlonega Mine Train, the enchanting Riverview Carousel, the Great American Scream Machine and more. Getting a little warm in the Georgia sun? Head over to their water park, Hurricane Harbor. AAA members can save up to 56% on admission.

Busch Gardens 

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Va., is widely-recognized as the most beautiful theme park in the world (a title it has held for over 30 years). Its landscaping and gorgeous themed environments based on European villages will make you feel much farther from home. As for rides, you can try the Pantheon roller coaster, the scenic Busch Gardens Railway, the twisty Tempesto and more. Visitors can also enjoy their water park, Water Country USA. AAA members can save on admission.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

If you want even warmer weather, head down to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Tampa, Fla., which offers a bevy of rides to choose from, like the Iron Gwazi, the extreme Sheikra and the family-friendly Cobra’s Curse. The Serengeti Express Train will transport you to the wilds of the Seregenti, where you might catch a glimpse of free-roaming herds of African animals like giraffes and zebra. If it’s getting too hot to handle, you can cool off in their water park, Adventure Island. AAA members can save on admission.

LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND New York Resort

LEGOLAND New York in Goshen, N.Y., is every LEGO fan’s dream. Visitors can enjoy kid-friendly rides like The Dragon roller coaster, LEGO NINJAGO the ride, Merlin’s Flying Machines, the LEGO Factory Adventure Ride and more. One of the park’s main attractions is Miniland, a miniature country made of LEGO Bricks! AAA members can save up to 50% on admission.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort 

Located in Winter Haven, Fla., LEGOLAND Florida Resort features the LEGOLAND theme park, SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium, a water park, and a Peppa Pig theme park. At the main LEGOLAND park, you can enjoy rides and play areas like Battle of Bricksburg, Lost Kingdom Adventure and Coastersaurus. And of course, you can visit Miniland USA, which features tiny LEGO replicas of the most stunning and important American landmarks — and also pirates. AAA members can save up to 45% on admission.

Hersheypark

Since its founding in 1906, Hersheypark has been a delicious destination. Visitors can enjoy delectable rides like the classic Comet, the wooden Wildcat, the Candymonium coaster and more. Don’t forget to stop by Hershey’s Chocolate World and take the factory tour ride, which blissfully smells of chocolate. Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to enjoy one of Hersheypark’s many water rides in the Boardwalk section of the park. AAA members can save up to 37% on admission.

Dollywood

Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., is one of the most beloved theme parks in the country, boasting attractions like Blazing Fury, Lightning Rod, Lumberjack Lifts, Mystery Mine and more. Visit Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home, a life-sized replica of Dolly Parton’s childhood home. And of course, since it’s Dollywood, the entire park is full of music and live entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy the water park, Dollywood’s Splash Country. AAA members can save up to 10% on admission.

Sesame Place

Can you tell me how to get to Sesame Street? Sesame Place in Philadelphia, Pa., is a theme park and water park filled with kid-friendly rides and experiences like Big Bird’s Tour Bus, Sunny Day Carousel, Oscar’s Rotten Rusty Rockets and Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides. Plus, you can meet all of your friends from Sesame Street. AAA members can save on admission.

Dorney Park

People have been coming to Dorney Park in Allentown, Pa., since 1884 — and it’s still a destination to write home about today! Try one of their 60 amazing rides, like the Antique Carousel, Steel Force or Thunderhawk. Thunder Creek Mountain, their log flume ride, is built straight into a mountain and drops riders down 210 feet. It’s the longest log flume drop in the world. If you’re not soaking wet after that ride, check out Wildwater Kingdom, Dorney Park’s water park. AAA members can save on admission.

Kings Dominion

Kings Dominion in Doswell, Va., has a lot of roller coasters to offer. Ride the steel coaster Tumbili, the wooden Grizzly, the hybrid Twisted Timbers, the Intimidator 305, Racer 75 and more. There are also rides for the little ones, like Blue Ridge Tollway, the Kite Eating Tree and Snoopy’s Junction. Afterward, you can cool down at the water park, Soak City. AAA members can save up to 46% on admission to Kings Dominion.

Walt Disney World

How do you even summarize Walt Disney World? Well, it’s the happiest place on Earth, but you know that already. This massive resort boasts four theme parks, two water parks, a shopping center and hundreds of activities spread across dozens of hotels. It’s not only the most popular theme park on the East Coast, it’s the most popular theme park in the world. From the Tower of Terror all the way down to It’s a Small World, there’s something for everyone. AAA members can save on gate prices.

Universal Orlando Resort

Once upon a time, Universal was just the park that you would go to if you were in town for Disney. But now, Universal Orlando Resort is a notable theme park in its own right. With four theme parks, including the brand-new Epic Universe, and a water park, you’ll never run out of things to do. Here you can step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World or Dark Universe, dedicated to classic Universal monsters. Coaster enthusiasts will love the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Revenge of the Mummy, while kids will go wild for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and The Cat in the Hat. AAA members can save on tickets to all the fun.

Looking for theme park discounts and more? AAA members can get exclusive savings at concerts, theme parks, events, museums and attractions! Go to AAA.com/Tickets.

Do you have a favorite theme park? What’s your favorite ride? Tell us in the comments below. 

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Weekly figures reported by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) last week suggest that the summer driving season made a pit stop after the holiday weekend with demand for gasoline falling more than 1.1 million barrels a day from the prior week to 8.26 million barrels a day. While demand typically falls in the days following a holiday weekend, markets were rattled by the lower-than-expected reading, which sent wholesale gasoline prices lower immediately after the EIA released its report. 

With the weak demand came a sizable build up of inventory as domestic production continues to flirt with record levels. Refiners, last week, increased their capacity utilization — a measure of how much refinery output potential is being used — to 93.4%, up from 90.1% a week before. Inventories of gasoline across the country swelled by 5.2 million barrels, with a whopping 3.4 million of those landing in the Northeast, according to EIA data. Meanwhile, the EIA said domestic oil production in May averaged 13.46 million barrels a day, just slightly behind the record 13.48 million barrels a day set in March. 

“After strong demand leading up to Memorial Day, markets deflated last week after weaker-than-expected demand readings sparked fears about the strength of the summer driving season,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “While it’s too early to tell how the rest of the summer will play out, folks who are traveling now will enjoy substantially lower pump prices than last year.” 

AAA Northeast’s June 9 survey of fuel prices found the current national average down 2 cents from last week ($3.14), averaging $3.12 per gallon. The June 9 national average price was 2 cents lower than a month ago ($3.14) and 32 cents lower than this day last year ($3.44). 

Region	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$3.08	$3.09	$3.06	$3.58
Massachusetts	$2.99	$3	$2.97	$3.47
New Jersey	$2.98	$3.01	$2.98	$3.43
New York	$3.10	$.3.11	$3.10	$3.62
Rhode Island	$2.97	$2.98	$2.96	$3.44

*Prices as of June 9, 2025 

As of June 9, Mississippi and Oklahoma had the lowest prices in the nation at $2.62 and $2.69, respectively. California and Hawaii held the highest prices in the nation at $4.70 and $4.46, respectively.  

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

Pride Month isn’t just about celebrating — it’s also about remembering LGBTQ history.

If you’re in the Northeast, you don’t have to go far to bump into some of the most historic LGBTQ sites in the world. And there’s no better way to spend Pride Month than walking in the footsteps of LGBTQ pioneers at these local, historic sites.

The Stonewall Inn

No list of LGBTQ landmarks is complete without the Stonewall Inn. The gay bar and tavern located in New York City’s Greenwich Village was the site of the 1969 Stonewall riots. When police raided Stonewall on June 28, 1969, a group of patrons and passersby retaliated and sparked the modern movement for LGBTQ liberation. On the anniversary of the riots, the first Pride parades took place in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. Pride Month is in June because it marks this pivotal moment in LGBTQ history. Today, Stonewall is a National Historic Landmark and even has its own National Monument across the street in Christopher Park.

Julius’ Bar

Julius’ Bar is one of the oldest continually-operating bars in New York City, and it’s also the oldest gay bar in New York City. This bar in Greenwich Village wasn’t always gay-friendly, though. In 1966, three members of the gay rights organization the Mattachine Society held a “sip-in” at Julius’ to protest laws that prohibited openly (or suspected) gay and lesbian people from being served at bars. The sip-in attracted attention from the New York Times and the Village Voice, leading the New York State Liquor Authority to roll back some of its policies against gay and lesbian patrons. It was an important stepping stone that would eventually lead to the events at Stonewall. Julius’ Bar is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Its interior is remarkably preserved and extremely similar to how it would have looked in 1966.

Provincetown Art Association and Museum

Originally, the beachside LGBTQ community of Provincetown was an artists’ colony. The Provincetown Art Association and Museum, established in 1914, documents the history of art and culture in P-town as it gradually grew into one of the top LGBTQ destinations in the country. The Provincetown Art Association and Museum offers a mix of contemporary and historical art, mostly by artists who have a connection to the area. At the museum, you can attend classes and lectures on everything from watercolors to LGBTQ symbolism in historic art. You can also see pieces by artists like Andy Warhol, John Singer Sargent, Blanche Lazzell and William Littlefield.

Carrington House

Carrington House was built at the turn of the 20^th century, and it was one of the first structures in Fire Island’s Cherry Grove. Theater director Frank Carrington purchased the house in 1927, expanded it and used it to house visiting LGBTQ artists, actors and writers. Truman Capote famously developed the novel “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” while he was staying there. Though it has since fallen into disrepair, some in the community hope to transform it into a museum celebrating the history of Fire Island. Carrington House and the surrounding area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Cherry Grove Community House and Theater

Also on Fire Island, you’ll find the Cherry Grove Community House and Theater, which was built in 1948. It’s the oldest continually operating LGBTQ theater in the country, and served as the cultural and civic center of Cherry Grove. The Cherry Grove Community House and Theater, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, continues to support the community today – in 2021 it was used to administer COVID-19 vaccines to residents.

Arlington Street Church

Boston’s Arlington Street Church has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ community. Since the 1970s it’s served as a popular meeting spot for various LGBTQ groups, like the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, BAGLY, the Daughters of Bilitis and the Homophile Union. The Unitarian Universalist church welcomed the gay Catholic group Dignity-Boston after they were banned from meeting on Roman Catholic church property. In 1981, the church held its first prom for LGBTQ youth. In 1983, members hosted their first AIDS benefit concert. In 2004, Arlington Street Church held America’s first state-sanctioned wedding for a same-sex couple. Then, just three days later, 55 LGBTQ couples were legally married there on the same day. In addition to its rich history, the Arlington Street Church is beautiful, with 16 stained-glass windows installed by Tiffany Studios, 16 hand-rung bells in its bell tower, Corinthian columns and a 62-foot-high arched ceiling.

Alice Austen House

Alice Austen was a trailblazing photographer whose uncompromising passion challenged the mores of 19th-century Staten Island. She took more than 8,000 pictures during her career. At the Alice Austen House, you’ll find her best shots, including her 1890 documentation of immigrant living conditions during quarantine. But it’s her private pictures that are among her most celebrated. Today, the house she shared with her partner, Gertrude Tate, features scores of photos that document queer relationships between Victorian-era women. Alice’s independent streak led to her being one of the first women in Staten Island to own a car. Years later, she achieved another first: the Alice Austen House was designated an LGBTQ landmark by the National Park Service in 2017, the first in the state devoted to a woman.

Did we forget any other landmarks important to LGBTQ history? Have you been to any of these places before? Let us know in the comments below.

If you plan on taking a road trip to one of these historic sites, learn about exclusive Hertz discounts for AAA members.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

For many Americans, the backyard deck is a favorite recreational area to get together with family.

It doesn’t feel like a dangerous place, but if it’s not built correctly or properly maintained it could become one. Collapses and failures of decks, porches and balconies accounted for about 2,900 injuries between 2016 and 2019, according to the most recent research from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Let’s explore some of the culprits that might be making your deck unsafe and what you can do to address these potential issues.

Dangerous Backyard Decks Are More Common Than You Think

Injuries due to collapsing or unsound decks often occur because a deck is either built in a way that violates current housing codes or has deteriorated over time.

If your deck was built before 1980, it’s likely that it was made with wood that wasn’t properly treated to prevent termite infestation. Aside from this, the average lifespan of a deck is around 15 years. If your home has a backyard deck that was built 30 or 40 years ago, make sure to have it inspected by a professional to identify and fix any hazards.

If you’re planning on spending time and dining out on your deck with family and friends, it’s especially important to make sure it is in top shape ahead of time. It’s never a good idea to test the limits of an old deck and put your loved ones at risk.

How to Inspect Your Backyard Deck for Wood Damage

If you built your deck yourself, it was constructed more than 15 years ago or if you simply suspect it might not be in the best shape, take some time to inspect the wood and other elements. One of the most obvious signs that your backyard deck is damaged is if you notice large cracks in the boards or posts, which could lead to more serious issues down the road.

You should also check the entire deck for rotting wood and termite holes. While it might not be obvious at first, use a screwdriver to poke around in any areas that look weak. If the wood feels spongy or soft inside, you’ll need to remove the rotten area and consult a professional to evaluate the extent of the damage.

Rotting wood can be caused by water damage and fungi, and in general, the elements can take a toll on wood over time. After all, your deck is subject to the weather 24/7; rain, snow, sun and wind can all be factors in causing your deck to decay, especially over decades of exposure and without proper maintenance.

Structural Signs Your Backyard Deck Might Be Unsafe

Pay close attention to any strange noises or movements you notice while spending time on your backyard deck, such as loud creaking, warped or weak boards and wobbly railings. While a weak railing might not seem as crucial to fix as the main body of the deck, these can pose a particular hazard for children or the elderly. If a piece of the railing suddenly becomes loose, people are at risk of falling. In the same way, make sure to keep a close eye on the stairway to verify the steps aren’t loose or damaged.

Examine your deck to confirm it has the proper structural connections. If you don’t see the standard bolts and metal connector plates supporting your deck and only see nails, your deck is structurally unsound. Finally, take a look at the wood posts supporting the weight of your deck and make sure they’re not off-center on their concrete footing. If you don’t have any concrete footing at all and your posts are touching the ground, this is usually a coding violation.

Insurance Considerations

“If someone were to get injured on your deck, your homeowners liability coverage should cover that up to the limits. If you have sufficient underlying limits and an umbrella policy, the umbrella policy would also provide excess coverage if that’s needed,” said Jodi DeSantis, vice president of insurance sales at AAA Northeast.

DeSantis advises homeowners to have their backyard deck inspected before any problems arise. If you suspect your deck shows any of these warning signs, don’t attempt to handle the problem yourself. Hire a professional who’s familiar with the coding laws in your area.

Although it might seem like a hassle to have repairs done on your deck when you’d rather be barbecuing, you’ll feel better knowing your family is safe from danger.

Learn more about AAA home and condo insurance in your state. 

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Celebrated for its relaxed pace, French Polynesia is the perfect place to slow down. Here, time revolves around food, drink, culture and revelry, inviting guests to embrace a more leisurely way of living — even if only for a few days.

The Islands of Tahiti, including gems like luxurious Bora Bora, are treasures waiting to be discovered, each with its own signature style, promising unique and unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the top spots to visit among its 118 islands and atolls.

Tahiti

The largest of the Society Islands, Tahiti was formed by two volcanoes — the older, larger Tahiti-Nui in the northwest, and Tahiti-Iti in the southeast — resulting it its distinctive figure-eight shape and mountainous terrain.

Tahiti is the economic, cultural and political center of French Polynesia. The island has a beautiful waterfront where yachts, ferries and cargo boats come and go, and a thriving market full of South Pacific atmosphere. Those who fly commercially typically begin their journey in Tahiti by landing in Papeete.

Moorea

Moorea is close to Tahiti and offers its coral reefs as a distinguishing characteristic popular with tourists. While snorkeling or diving, you can see the beautiful and vibrant colors of the reef fish in their natural habitat. Moorea’s topography includes Mount Rotui which lies between two enormous inlets, Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.

Raiatea

The second-largest island in the Society Islands chain, Raiatea is a popular destination for sailing and deep-sea fishing and shares a coral reef and lagoon with neighboring island Taha’a.

Taha’a

Taha’a is known for its spice production. It is commonly known as the Vanilla Island because of the many fragrant vanilla orchids. The island is mostly dense forest and shaped like a flower.

Tetiaroa

Tetiaroa is the private island that was home to actor Marlon Brando. The island is now home to The Brando, the resort that carries his namesake, which celebrates and preserves Tetiaroa’s pristine beauty, offering the ultimate sustainable luxury for discerning travelers.

Huahine

A natural wonderland steeped in authentic Tahitian tradition, Huahine is home to copious marine life and is surrounded by coral. Culturally preserved and surrounded by lush vegetation, there’s an assortment of hidden temples scattered throughout the island.

Bora Bora

Bora Bora is the Society Islands’ honeymoon retreat. It is also where the overwater bungalow style of residence originated. The lagoon on Bora Bora is pristine, a veritable paradise where snorkeling and diving are common pastimes. With a romantic atmosphere popular with couples and newlyweds, the beaches of Bora Bora offer year-round opportunities for watersports and a relaxing scene for lounging in the tropical sun.

Rangiroa

Rangiroa is the largest atoll (a low tropical island created by coral rising up above the sea level) in the Tuamotu islands and the second largest in the world. From the air, it appears like a pearl necklace laid upon the water. More than 200 tiny motus (islands) wind along a fragile reef where infinite schools of marine life fill the iridescent waters.

Tikehau

Approximately seven miles from Rangiroa, Tikehau is an oval-shaped atoll that consists of a series of flat motus, surrounding a pristine, magnificent lagoon packed with thriving and varied species of marine life. The real draws here are the fishing, beaches and incredible snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. If you enjoy miles of beautiful pink sand beaches, sparkling turquoise water and a peaceful atmosphere, you will love Tikehau.

The Marquesas

The Marquesas are considered some of the most remote islands in the world. Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands, is a mountainous bounty of forests and stunning beaches. With the Vaipo waterfall, one of the tallest in French Polynesia, and a volcano, Nuku Hiva is difficult to beat for adventure and sights.

Visiting Multiple Islands

While some travelers prefer to stick to one island and make the most of resort living, others prefer to spend their visit island hopping. With ample air and sea transfers available, you can see as much as French Polynesia as you desire. If you enjoy cruising, ask you AAA travel advisor about booking one of several cruise lines offering French Polynesia itineraries.

Where to Stay

Make the most of your time on the Islands of Tahiti with a stay that captures French Polynesian tranquility and charm. Book now and save.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

This resort recently completed a multi-million dollar refurbishment and features 122 rooms and overwater suites, six restaurants, spa, fitness center and Kid’s Club. The King Pool Overwater Villas are 1,302 square feet with a private pool and incredible sunset views.

Hilton Hotel Tahiti

A prime waterfront location just five minutes from Faa’a International Airport, the city center and the maritime port. The The Hilton Hotel Tahiti’s restaurants and bars offer convenient spaces to indulge in local and international cuisine, while its casual marketplace makes it easy for guests to stock up on snacks and supplies before a day of adventure. The resort also features a spa and the largest outdoor pool in French Polynesia.

Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa

This secluded resort features a garden, beach and overwater bungalows on the edge of the second largest lagoon in the world. The restaurant offers continental cuisine with barbecues on Wednesdays and Sundays with a Polynesian dance show.

Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort

Set at the edge of a lagoon (ideal for snorkeling) on the longest white-sand beach on Moorea, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is a perfect place for honeymooners and anniversaries. Overwater, beachfront and garden bungalows embody the pristine beauty of the destination with natural materials and luxurious amenities. The resort also boasts an on-site restaurant, a spa, two shops, an excursions desk and diving and nautical center.

Le Taha’a By Pearl Resorts

Located on the secluded Motu Tautau facing the island of Taha’a on one side and stunning views of Bora Bora on the other, Le Taha’a is a luxury hideaway inspired by Polynesian architecture and style. Its overwater bungalows feature wrap-around decks with steps down to the crystal-clear waters below. Surrounded by tropical gardens, 12 beach villas include plunge pools and direct beach access, while affording privacy within their walled gardens. Three restaurants, a spa, fitness center, tennis court, outdoor swimming pool, scuba diving center and a helipad are also among the standout amenities.

Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts

This Polynesian-style resort offers 37 very spacious beach bungalows, overwater bungalows and suites with access to isolated pink-sand beaches and a lagoon teeming with tropical marine life. The bungalows are constructed with natural wood and feature private verandahs. The bar and restaurant are located poolside with views of the translucent lagoon.

Start planning your Tahiti vacation with a AAA travel advisor.

Featured image: Conrad Bora Bora Nui.

Quick Summary: You don’t need a flight to Florida for a budget-friendly getaway. The Northeast offers several affordable beach vacations, including Madison, CT, Wells, ME, and Narragansett, RI, which serve as lower-cost alternatives to pricey nearby hubs like Newport or Ogunquit. To maximize savings, book hotels several months in advance and leverage AAA member discounts for lodging and dining. Last Updated: April 7, 2026.

Though the Northeast is sometimes associated with harsh winters and record-breaking cold temperatures, the warmer months and sprawling coasts can provide the perfect atmosphere for a cheap beach vacation that won’t overheat you (or your wallet). So put aside those plans to head down to Florida and look closer to home — we’ve got a list of nearby beach towns that might surprise you.

Budget Destination	The “Cheap” Alternative To…	Key Budget Activity
Wells, ME	Ogunquit, ME	Kayaking the Webhannet River
Narragansett, RI	Newport, RI	Point Judith Lighthouse views
Dennis, MA	Outer Cape Towns	Mayflower Beach (Bay Side)
Madison, CT	Luxury CT Shorelines	Hammonasset Beach State Park

Madison, Conn.

A quiet Connecticut getaway, Madison is not well-known by most tourists, so restaurant, lodging and entertainment prices aren’t driven by a high tourist demand.

Hammonasset Beach State Park is your one-stop shop for outdoor summer activities; swim and lounge in the sand on the beach, fish and hike the walking trails, or visit the Meigs Point Nature Center to have hands-on experiences with native animals.

Highlight

Main Street, aka Boston Post Road, is lined with independent shops and boutiques, family-owned restaurants and historic buildings, such as the crown jewel of the town, R.J. Julia Booksellers. The charm of this town is a welcome respite from everyday life.

Wells, Maine

Though Maine is as north as the Northeast gets, it isn’t all chilly temperatures. Its coastline is home to a number of beaches, 7 miles of which are in Wells.

When you’re not swimming, zipping on a personal watercraft or just enjoying the sun at one of four beaches, you could be kayaking or canoeing up the Webhannet River, or shopping at the antique stores along Route 1.

Highlight

Just a short drive away is Ogunquit Beach, a popular tourist destination in Maine. But since Ogunquit is so popular, the restaurants, hotels and shops nearby can get pricey. Staying in Wells ensures that you enjoy all of the views without breaking the bank.

Dennis, Mass.

As far as New England beach vacations go, it doesn’t get any better than Cape Cod. One of the more inexpensive areas, Dennis lies right in the middle of the peninsula.

In Dennis, you decide which kind of beach you’d like to swim at — beaches with the mild waters of the Cape Cod Bay, like Mayflower Beach, or the even calmer waters of the Nantucket Sound, like at West Dennis Beach.

Highlight

The best part about Dennis is its proximity to everything else on the Cape. Whether you prefer the wilder waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the lower Cape or a more historic getaway like Falmouth on the upper Cape, Dennis is central to it all.

Hampton, N.H.

The waters in New Hampshire are quite cold for some, but this beach town has enough for you to do even if you don’t care to swim.

Enjoy fresh seafood at any of the eateries along Hampton State Beach or take the family to the Blue Ocean Discovery Center, where the little ones can get up-close and personal with marine life.

Highlight

Treat yourself to breakfast or lunch and watch the planes at the Hampton Airfield Airfield Cafe, which features an open deck cafe decorated with an aviation theme.

Cape May, N.J.

With its sprawling beaches and quaint Victorian architecture, Cape May is perfect for family vacations.

Not far from the coast are attractions like the Cape May Lighthouse, Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Willow Creek Winery and more. Also nearby are campgrounds, which provide cheaper lodging options for vacationers.

Highlight

Just north of Cape May is Jersey Shore Alpacas, where visitors can meet and feed alpacas on a tour of the farm. It’s an inexpensive way to be sure that your vacation is memorable.

Narragansett, R.I.

A cheaper alternative to Newport, Narragansett also has beautiful beaches, plenty of opportunities to sample local seafood and a number of historic landmarks.

When you’re not swimming and soaking up the sun at Scarborough State Beach or Narragansett Town Beach, check out the Point Judith Lighthouse for a spectacular view of the coast. Then, head to Galilee for a bite to eat as you watch boats leave the harbor.

Highlight

The Block Island Ferry leaves from Point Judith, giving you the perfect opportunity to day trip on the island and enjoy a relaxing ride on the way there.

Booking Your Cheap Beach Vacation

While vacationing nearby will save you from airfare, location isn’t the only factor to consider when you want to save. Reserving your hotel several months in advance will generally get you a lower price. AAA members also get discounted rates at thousands of hotels whenever they book.

FAQ

Which Northeast beach town is the best alternative to Newport, RI?
Narragansett, RI, is a top-tier alternative to Newport. It offers similar beautiful coastlines and historic landmarks like the Point Judith Lighthouse but at a significantly lower price point for dining and entertainment.

How can I save money on lodging for a beach vacation in New Jersey?
For a cheaper stay in Cape May, consider local campgrounds or Victorian-style B&Bs located slightly inland. Additionally, booking through AAA can unlock member-only rates at thousands of regional hotels.

What is the most central budget beach town on Cape Cod?
Dennis, MA, is considered one of the most central and affordable areas on the peninsula. Its location provides easy access to both the calm waters of Mayflower Beach and the historic sites of the Upper and Lower Cape.

Share your tips and tricks to having a great vacation without breaking the bank in the comments below.

Travel Guide Accuracy: This list of affordable beach destinations was last updated on April 7, 2026, to ensure travel tips and pricing trends remain current.

If you have a mortgage, you need to have homeowners insurance. But despite its integral role in protecting your house and family, you still might have questions about how homeowners insurance actually works.

We spoke to Ashley Kehew, director of insurance at AAA Northeast, about some of the most frequently asked homeowners insurance questions to help provide some clarity on your policy.

I have recently added a small addition to my home. How does this impact my home insurance policy?

“Any addition to your home, even if small, will change your home’s replacement cost,” Kehew said.

Whenever you are planning significant upgrades or remodeling to your house, you should reach out to your insurance agent to update your policy accordingly. Something as simple as painting wouldn’t qualify, but adding a room or installing new kitchen cabinets would add value to your home. You want to ensure that your policy accurately reflects your home’s worth, allowing for the most comprehensive coverage.

What’s the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value?

“Replacement cost covers the expense to rebuild or replace your property in today’s world,” Kehew said. She gives the example of a TV you bought six years ago: It may not be worth more than $50 today, but it would certainly cost more to replace it. “Replacement cost coverage gets you a brand-new TV; it doesn’t factor in the depreciation of that 6-year-old TV.”

If you had actual cash value coverage, you’d get the actual value of that 6-year-old TV today — which certainly would not be enough to replace it. The same goes for home.

“An older roof or older siding with actual cash value coverage would receive a depreciated payout, whereas, replacement cost coverage would pay to replace your roof or siding fully.”

Why is my home insured for more than its market value?

In some instances, your coverage will exceed the market value of your home, especially if you have replacement cost coverage applied to your policy. Rather than adhering simply to the market value — the current purchase price of your home, replacement cost reflects what is necessary to rebuild your home in the event of a total loss.

“It’s common to see the replacement cost for a home exceed the market value,” Kehew said. “The replacement cost of a home takes into account many things, including debris removal, construction costs, materials and labor, which can all add up to be more than what your home would sell for in today’s market.” 

If you’re unsure whether you have replacement cost or cash value stated in your policy, or want to change it, contact your insurance agent.

Is my property covered while I’m on vacation or away from my home?

Yes, of course. Your policy applies to your home even when you and your family are out. No matter whether you are down the street or on a European tour, your property is covered under your homeowners insurance.

“Most homeowners insurance will cover you anywhere in the world for things such as theft or damage from a covered peril,” for example, fire, Kehew said.

Do I need to buy additional coverage for certain high-value items, such as jewelry?

The answer to this one depends on your policy. Homeowners insurance typically has limitations when it comes to the liability for certain types of personal property.

“While standard policies have sublimits for items such as jewelry, the coverage type and amounts are limited. When you schedule an item, you are protected for so much more than the standard perils. You have full protection for things such as mysterious disappearance, breakage or even a stone falling out!” said Kehew.

If you have any questions about a specific type of valuable such as jewelry, furs, cash, silverware or firearms, contact your insurance agent to determine your policy’s limits and, if necessary, to buy additional coverage.

Learn more about getting jewelry insurance coverage through AAA.

Does my homeowners insurance policy cover damage from earthquakes?

The basic homeowners insurance policy doesn’t cover damage from earthquakes. However, if you deem it necessary, you may purchase an endorsement that guards against earthquake damage.

“Earthquake coverage is available as an endorsement that can be added on to homeowners insurance policies for an additional premium,” Kehew said. Depending on where you live, such a provision would certainly be a wise move. Just be aware that a separate deductible may apply when you update your policy.

I don’t live in a flood zone. Do I still need flood insurance?

“Flood insurance is available to everyone and honestly, should be considered by everyone,” Kehew said.

Like earthquake coverage, flood insurance is not included in a basic homeowners insurance policy, and if you aren’t in a flood zone, you should be able to protect yourself from common occurrences like storms and flash flooding. But if you live in an area where flooding is a serious risk, you should consider purchasing flood insurance, though you would have to acquire a separate policy.

Learn more in our flood insurance FAQ.

What is a hurricane deductible?

Much like how you need specific coverage for earthquakes, floods and other disasters, a hurricane deductible isn’t part of your basic homeowners insurance policy. Rather, this is a separate deductible that provides protection from any damage to your home resulting from a named storm.

“Hurricane deductibles are a separate, higher deductible that applies specifically to damage caused by hurricanes,” said Kehew. “Often, you’ll see them listed as a percentage. What this means is that it’s a percentage of your home’s insured value.”

For example, a 5% hurricane deductible on a $500,000 insured home would be a deductible of $25,000. Over time, as your dwelling coverage increases (say at renewal, your dwelling coverage increases to $510,000), your hurricane deductible will continue to increase with that coverage ($25,500, which would be 5% of the new dwelling coverage amount). Reach out to your agent for further details about what works best for you.

Hopefully, we’ve addressed some lingering questions you may have had about your homeowners insurance.

Of course, you can always contact an experienced AAA insurance agent to learn more AAA homeowners insurance or get a quote.

With summer-like temperatures in the forecast this week, AAA Northeast is sounding the alarm that vehicular heatstroke can happen quickly — especially given that child deaths inside hot cars increased by nearly 35% last year.

In 2024, 39 children died in hot cars across the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, including a 2-month-old infant who died on a 77-degree June day. That’s a significant increase over 2023, when 29 children succumbed to vehicular heatstroke. On average, 37 children die each year as a result of vehicular heatstroke.

The inside of a car can become lethally hot even on a mild but sunny day: Although most deaths occur when temperatures exceed 80 degrees, a child has succumbed to vehicular heatstroke in 70- to 80-degree temperatures in each of the past 11 years.

On a typical 80-degree summer day, the interior temperature of a vehicle climbs by 20 degrees in only 10 minutes and reaches a deadly 109 degrees in 20 minutes. On hotter days, the interior temperature can easily reach 120- to 140-degrees, and cracking the windows has little effect.

“While every family wants to believe this could never happen to them, the reality is a child dying from vehicular heatstroke is an unimaginable tragedy that can happen to any family,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “We urge families to take action to ensure children’s safety. Establish firm guidelines about heatstroke safety with family members and caregivers and put processes in place to ensure children — and pets — are never left behind. In some cases, a sticky note affixed to the steering wheel or a smartphone screen can help prevent a fatality.”

To prevent hot car deaths, AAA Northeast recommends caregivers practice the following:

• Stop and look at the backseat before exiting a parked vehicle. Make it a habit to check the entire vehicle before locking the doors and walking away. Place personal items, like a purse or briefcase, on the floor in the back seat as another reminder to look before you lock. Ask childcare providers to immediately call if your child doesn’t show up for care as expected and always seek confirmation that your child was removed from the vehicle safely by anyone transporting them — including spouses, grandparents, other family members and close friends.
• Lock your vehicle to prevent unsupervised access and a child getting trapped inside. Keep car keys away from children and teach them that the inside of a car should never be used as a play area.
• Act fast, call 911 and take action if you see a child alone in a locked car. A child in distress should be removed as quickly as possible.

Statistics about hot car deaths:

Over 52% of deaths are caused by a caregiver forgetting the child in the vehicle, according to NoHeatStroke.org. And it’s often not a parent: 29% of the deaths related to children forgotten in vehicles involve a caregiver other than a parent. Be especially vigilant whenever there is a change in your childcare or drop-off routine.

Nearly 22% of deaths result when a caregiver knowingly leaves a child in the car (typically to run a quick errand or let the child finish a nap). The majority of the temperature rise occurs within the first 15 to 30 minutes, and caregivers may mistakenly assume that cracking the windows is sufficient to cool and ventilate the vehicle.

Nearly 25% of cases are related to the child gaining access to the vehicle without adult supervision and becoming trapped in the vehicle. An innocent game of hide-and-seek can lead to such tragedies; often the child enters the vehicle and closes the door or trunk and cannot get out. It is important for all drivers, not just parents, to lock their vehicles in driveways and parking lots.

Statistics about pets dying in hot cars are not tracked as closely, but the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that every year, hundreds of pets die of heatstroke in parked vehicles. Exercise the same care with a pet as you would with a child.

The wide variety of electric vehicle models now available — over 75 options introduced in the past four years — isn’t moving the needle for buyers. That’s according to AAA’s latest survey, which found only 16% of U.S. adults report being “very likely” or “likely” to purchase a fully electric vehicle as their next car, the lowest percentage of EV interest recorded since 2019. The percentage of consumers indicating they would be “unlikely” or “very unlikely” to purchase an EV rose from 51% to 63%, the highest since 2022.

Key Barriers to Going Fully Electric

High battery repair costs (62%) and purchase price (59%) are cited as key barriers to going fully electric. Other top concerns identified in this year’s survey were the perceived unsuitability of EVs for long-distance travel (57%), a lack of convenient public charging stations (56%) and fear of running out of charge while driving (55%). Just over 30% of those undecided or unlikely to buy an EV have safety concerns, 27% reported challenges installing charging stations at their residences, and 12% cited the potential reduction or elimination of tax credits and rebates. According to AAA’s 2024 Your Driving Cost analysis, EVs had the second highest total ownership costs due to depreciation, purchase prices and finance charges.

Motivating Factors

Respondents cited gas savings, environmental concerns and lower EV maintenance costs as their top motivations to purchase. Last year’s Your Driving Cost analysis found that EVs had the lowest fuel cost and lowest maintenance cost of any vehicle type.

Future of EVs

Despite advancements in the EV industry and the growing number of models, the percentage of U.S. drivers who believe that most cars will be electric within the next 10 years has significantly declined from 40% in 2022 to 23% this year.

AAA EV Resources

• AAA Car Guide: For those in the market for newer EVs, the online resources also contain links to the two prior editions in 2022 and 2023. 
• AAA’s EV Website: For anyone looking to learn more about EVs, the website features a guide to getting started, cost calculators, news and insights.
• Your Driving Cost Calculator: An online resource that gives a yearly breakdown of EV ownership costs.  
• EV Research: AAA in-house experts research consumer sentiment around EVs and their functionality.

We’ve all been there. You’re cruising along, when suddenly, you get a warning that you’re low on gas. You were counting on getting home without a pit stop, but now you’re wondering if you’ll make it.

Exactly how far can you drive with the gas light on? For almost every car built in the past 25 years, E is a sign you’re down to your car’s fuel reserves, according to NAPA Auto Parts, and you can drive usually another 30 to 50 miles.

So, there is no reason to panic, but try not to push it.

How Much Gas Is Left?

How much fuel remains in your tank when the fuel light is on depends on several factors, including the make and model of the car, the type of road you are on, whether it’s flat or mountainous, the temperature and how much additional weight you are carrying.

“In the cars I have test driven, most can travel anywhere from 30 to 50 miles after the light turns on,” said AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul. “In most cars, depending on engine size and miles per gallon, when the light comes on, there is typically a useable 1 to 2 gallons of fuel left in the tank. Fuel tanks never completely run dry, but the little fuel left in the tank is not enough for the fuel system to use.”

Dashboard fuel gauges rely on a floating sensor that’s attached to an arm inside the gas tank. A fuel pump, also known as the sending unit, is involved as well. As gas burns, the floating sensor’s arm begins to drop, signaling the dashboard gauge that the fuel volume is decreasing.

While 30 to 50 additional miles is a good estimate, it’s always better to err on the low end, according to NAPA, and get gas as soon as possible. The gas light should serve as a warning, not be a casual reminder to buy gas.

“It’s always a good idea to fill up as soon as possible to avoid running out completely, which could potentially damage the fuel pump,” Paul said. “Electric fuel pumps, in many cases, are mounted in the fuel tank and are cooled by the fuel in the tank. Consistently running low on fuel can lead to the pump overheating and cause a premature failure of what can be an expensive part.” 

Repeatedly using the last bit of gas in the tank can also cause gunk from the bottom of the tank to pass into the engine, with the potential for causing damage.

Getting Better Numbers

Owners of cars with a multifunction dashboard may have access to more detailed information through the calculated range or distance-to-empty which can more accurately show fuel levels.

To find out precisely how much fuel you have when gas is low, read the owner’s manual to find the exact volume of the gas tank. The next time your needle is on E, fill up the tank. Then subtract the number of gallons needed to reach full from the fuel tank’s total capacity.

Once you have an idea of how much gas you have left, try to drive at a consistent speed to preserve fuel.

To prevent “unscheduled” stops and keep your vehicle operating smoothly, NAPA recommends filling the tank regularly and not letting the gas level drop below one-eighth of a tank.  

If you do run out of gas on the road, members can request AAA fuel delivery. A AAA technician will bring you enough to get you the nearest gas station. To request roadside assistance 24/7, including AAA fuel delivery, go to AAA.com/GetMoving, call 800-222-4357 or download the AAA Auto Club App.

Need something for your car? AAA members get discounts at NAPA Auto Parts, online and in select stores.

Are you guilty of driving a little longer than you should after the fuel light goes on? Tell us in the comments.