Whether you use your motorcycle for commuting or strictly for weekend rides, motorcycle owners have the same obligation as car drivers when it comes to insurance.

The level of insurance for motorcycle riders depends on what is mandated by individual states and a general responsibility to cover damages you may cause to others or their property.

During the process of getting a motorcycle insurance quote, there are a few things about motorcylce insurance basics you should keep in mind.

How Much Motorcycle Insurance Do I Need?

Multiple Bikes Can Be Included on One Policy

When requesting a motorcycle insurance quote, make sure to let the provider know if you own more than one. Many motorcycle enthusiasts own multiple bikes. Some may be vintage models. Some may even be trikes. You can make your life simpler but including all of them on one motorcycle insurance policy, even if you only ride some of them occasionally.

Modified Bikes May Increase Insurance Costs

Part of motorcycle ownership is the pride that comes from bike modifications. Any change that you make post-manufacture is something that needs to be shared with your insurance carrier, from engine guards to tinted windshields. Whether you make the change for mechanical or aesthetic reasons, they may be factored into your motorcycle insurance quote, and generally this means your premium will be higher. If you make the change after your coverage begins, you still need to inform your carrier.

Insurance Requirements Differ by State

Since there are no federal mandates for motorcycle insurance, check state motorcycle insurance laws to make sure you have the appropriate amount and motorcycle coverage type for where you live. Liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage are required in most areas.

Motorcycle owners have a third type of liability insurance to consider: guest passenger liability. If you will be transporting anyone on the back of your bike, his or her safety is also a concern. This type of liability insurance provides medical coverage if your passenger is injured. Some policies automatically include guest passenger liability in the overall bodily injury coverage, but for others it may be an option.

Motorcycle Coverage Types

Collision Coverage Protects Your Bike

Where liability insurance covers damage to other people and their vehicles, collision coverage is what will pay for damages to your own bike whether caused by another vehicle or from contact with a non-moving object such as a tree or streetlight. Events involving wildlife, such as hitting a deer also are covered.

It can be devastating to see your bike damaged after an accident. Scrapes, bent pegs, broken shocks and paint scratches are just a few of the things that may need to be repaired. With collision coverage, your insurance should cover the cost of all repairs after your deductible. If your bike is beyond repair, it may also cover total replacement.

Comprehensive Coverage Protects Against Theft and Vandalism

Motorcycle theft is a real risk. Easier to steal than a car, thieves can swiftly disable locks and ride away on your bike without raising much suspicion. Protect your investment with comprehensive coverage. This type of insurance pays for damages when your motorcycle is vandalized, stolen and even damaged by wildlife or natural causes such as storms and floods. In this case, the word comprehensive does not mean full, so you still will need separate liability protection. Leased and financed bikes will require this kind of coverage.

Under the Umbrella 

Umbrella insurance is designed as an added security measure to protect you from personal liability above and beyond your regular home and auto insurance policies. If you have an umbrella policy or eventually switch to one, make sure that it extends to your motorcycle. In some instances, it can be excluded but can be added as an endorsement to provide coverage.

Roadside Assistance Is Advisable

Even on the calmest of rides, you can experience an unexpected issue such as a flat tire, failed battery or lack of oil. In addition to your insurance policy, make sure you pick up motorcycle Roadside Assistance from AAA. Eligible Plus and Premier AAA members can get battery jump-starts, emergency tire inflations and towing for your ride. Learn more.

Appraise Vintage Models

If your motorcycle is damaged beyond repair, an adjuster will work with you to determine the fair market value of your bike.  Most of the time, industry publications and classified ads provide reliable information to help in determining this amount.  However, it can be harder for an adjuster to determine the value of a vintage model.  If you own one, you should have a specialist appraise it so that you have solid documentation of its replacement cost.

While motorcycle owners have liability requirements like other vehicle drivers, they also have specialized insurance concerns. From motorcycle roadside assistance to modifications and vintage models, make sure your insurance has you covered for your unique circumstances.

Get in touch with a AAA insurance agent for help with all your insurance needs. 

Are you ready for riding season? Get your bike prepared for the road with this spring motorcycle maintenance checklist. 

Last updated: April 8, 2026

Paying off student loans can become especially confusing when you’re making multiple monthly payments. Think of student loan consolidation like combining multiple streaming subscriptions into one bundle. Instead of juggling separate due dates and payments, you make one monthly payment toward a single loan.

Check out the following rundown on student loan consolidation to find out whether or not it’s right for you.

How To Consolidate Student Loans With a Direct Consolidation Loan

The U.S. Department of Education allows you to consolidate your federal student loans with a Direct Consolidation Loan. Like the bundling analogy above, this allows you to combine multiple loans into one new loan for a single monthly payment, instead of the confusing barrage of loan payments that many students are stuck with after graduation. However, only certain federal loans are eligible.

The benefits? In addition to one monthly payment, with a Direct Consolidation Loan, you can change your repayment plan. For some, that could mean being given a longer time period — up to 30 years — to repay the new loan. Keep in mind, though, that this could cost you more in the long run if you’re paying more in interest than you would have originally.

Another plus is that it’s free to apply, and anyone can, as long as their loans are in repayment or in the grace period. You can download an application at StudentLoans.gov and submit by mail, or complete and submit it online.

But there are pros and cons to everything. One disadvantage is that you may lose the benefits you get with your current loans, like interest rate discounts or loan cancellation benefits. In most cases, consolidating will also reset progress toward income‑driven repayment forgiveness or Public Service Loan Forgiveness, meaning prior qualifying payments may not count toward forgiveness.

How To Consolidate by Refinancing Student Loans

For those who want to consolidate federal and private loans or have federal loans that don’t qualify for the Direct Consolidation Loan, student loan refinancing is another way to combine multiple loans into one. However, instead of doing this through the U.S. Department of Education, you would do this through a private lender.

The benefits? In addition to one monthly payment, refinancing can lower your interest rate. Most lenders offer both variable and fixed rates. If you have good credit and a steady income or can co-sign with someone with good credit and a steady income, you could qualify for low rates.

Like consolidating through the Direct Consolidation Loan, consolidating by refinancing allows you to change your repayment plan. You can choose to repay them faster with higher monthly payments or take a longer period of time with lower monthly payments.

While it is possible to combine federal and private student loans into one private consolidation loan, you will lose federal benefits and protections such as loan forgiveness and income-based repayment plans and should consider it very carefully before you do. 

When weighing student loan refinancing as an option, be sure to compare offers from private lenders. Some may offer options such as deferment, forbearance or flexible repayment to help out during those tough times, when an income-driven repayment plan would’ve come in handy.

When To Consolidate Student Loans

You’re eligible to consolidate your student loans after you graduate, leave school or drop below half-time enrollment.

In order to consolidate student loans under a Direct Consolidation Loan, the loans you’re consolidating must be in repayment or in the grace period, which is typically the six months after graduation.

If you want to consolidate a defaulted loan, you must either wait to consolidate until after making three consecutive monthly payments on the loan, or you must agree to repay your new consolidation loan with one of the federal Income-Driven Repayment Plans.

As for consolidation through refinancing, private lenders may have their own requirements. Some may require you to have made a minimum number of payments before refinancing. A good record of making payments on time for several years can help your cause.

In any case, be sure to weigh your options before you choose to consolidate or refinance your student loans and make the decision that is best for your situation.

Have more student lending questions? Get answers here.

To figure out which is the best way to consolidate your student loans, call (888) 422-2536 to talk to a AAA Student Lending specialist.

Have you consolidated your student loans? How did it help you? Tell us in the comments below!

Last updated: April 8, 2026

Your bags are packed, flights are confirmed and you are so ready for a vacation. But when you arrive at the airport, the gate agent delivers devastating news: You can’t board your flight. The reason? Your passport doesn’t meet the six-month passport validity rule many countries require.

Most people don’t realize it, but if your passport is scheduled to expire within six months or fewer of your return date from an overseas destination, you might be barred from flying to or from certain countries or traveling on a cruise line.

Among those with the restrictions are:

• European countries in the Schengen Area.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises.
• Many Asian and African countries.
• You can check specific country requirements here.

It’s a travel mistake that many people make, and it can be an incredibly costly one. If your passport expires in fewer than six months, you won’t be allowed to board your plane, check in for your cruise or even enter another country. Airlines and cruise lines are required to enforce the six-month rule. If you somehow manage to board a plane and arrive at your destination, you could be denied entry to the other country when you try to pass through customs. Which leaves you with no other option except to turn around and go home.

To make matters worse: Travel insurance doesn’t cover this mistake. That means your long-anticipated vacation could be over before it even starts — and all the money you spent on flights, hotels and excursions gone.

RushMyPassport to the Rescue

If you are one to wait until the last minute when prepping for a vacation, make sure renewing your passport jumps to the top of the to-do list.

To ensure all your documents are ready in plenty of time, consider using RushMyPassport, a service that expedites new passport applications and renewals. AAA Northeast members also receive a 10% discount on passport and visa services.

After you get your passport photos taken at a AAA Northeast branch, log into RushMyPassport, indicate what kind of passport you need and decide how quickly you need it. Turnaround times vary from one day to six weeks, for varying fees. The site provides step-by-step directions, including checklists, help with document preparation and application reviews and employs a wizard to help you add in your documents. (Customers still must pay the standard government processing fees.)

Customer service is available via phone, email and chat to ensure you complete all the steps accurately to avoid any delays.

Don’t let an outdated passport ruin your dream trip. Check your expiration date and renew it with RushMyPassport.

Learn more and get started.

Call 888-780-5185 ☎️  |  Find a AAA Branch  |  Contact Online

If your engagement ring is lost, stolen or accidentally damaged, standard homeowners or renters insurance is unlikely to fully cover it — meaning one small mishap could result in thousands of dollars lost. Specialized jewelry insurance helps protect both the financial and emotional value of your most cherished pieces.

How to Insure an Engagement Ring

Standard homeowners and renters insurance covers belongings from fire and other perils named in a policy, but there are limits to how much money a policyholder can collect on a single piece of jewelry that has been stolen. In most policies, the “limit of lability,” on jewelry is in the ballpark of $1,500, well short of the average $5,200 spent on an engagement ring.

Buyers looking for engagement ring insurance or coverage on other valuable assets that exceeds the liability limit in their policy have two options, according to the Insurance Information Institute. You can either ask your insurance agent to increase your liability limit, or have them “schedule” an individual piece of jewelry into your coverage by purchasing what’s called a floater policy.

Scheduling each piece or item may cost more in premiums, but it offers broader protection, because the floater covers losses of any type, including accidental losses — such as dropping your ring down the drain of the kitchen sink or leaving an expensive watch in a hotel room — that your homeowners insurance policy will not cover.

Floater policies by default, are replacement cost policies, meaning the insurer will replace a piece of jewelry with an item of like kind and quality if ever it is lost, stolen or damaged. Another benefit of the floater policy is that there is typically no deductible for a jewelry claim.

You can also choose to cover your engagement ring with a specialty jewelry policy. This could be a good option for those who don’t have a homeowners or renters policy, such as adult children living with their parents.

Insuring Other Expensive Gifts

Even if an engagement is not in your plans, you may still want to consider a floater on other high-priced purchases.

Floaters can be purchased on musical instruments, sports memorabilia collections, electronics and even family heirlooms. But first, said items must be professionally appraised or have a receipt dated within the past three years must be provided to the insurance agent, so the insurer knows what the item or items are worth.

It’s also good practice to keep an up-to-date, room-by-room home inventory, which you can catalog in a notebook or record on video. Either way you decide to do it, you want to document what you own and how much each item costs. Not only will this help you speed up claims and prove losses for your taxes, but it will also give you an idea of how much insurance you need.

Get in touch with a AAA insurance agent today.

Last updated: April 7, 2026

Passport delays and expiration issues among the most common reasons travelers miss or cancel international trips, so checking your passport early, understanding processing times and knowing renewal rules is essential for stress‑free travel.

Here are some common passport FAQs that new international travelers should be familiar with.

What is a passport for?

A passport is a document that allows the holder to travel internationally. It is also occasionally used as a means of identification, and often more trusted than other forms of ID. A passport is absolutely necessary for travel to or from the U.S.

Where do I get a passport?

You can apply for a passport by mail in some situations, and at passport acceptance facilities like designated local post offices, public libraries and other types of government offices. Find one near you.

You can mail your passport paperwork to the closest National Passport Processing Center.

• If you are getting a new passport or a passport for a child, you will need the DS-11 form.
• If you are renewing your passport, you will need the DS-82 form.
• If you are changing your passport info, such as spelling or name change, you will need the DS-5504 form.

How much does it cost?

For a child’s passport book (DS-11), the application fee is $100 and the processing fee is $35. For an adult’s first passport (DS-11), the application fee is $130 and the processing fee is $35. For an adult passport renewal (DS-82), the application fee is $130 and there is no processing fee.

What do I need to bring with me to get a passport?

An important inclusion on any passport FAQ list is a completed DS- form, which you can download from travel.state.gov. There are form-fillable PDF versions as well as printable versions  you can fill out by hand.

You will also need evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a valid or expired U.S. passport, a U.S. birth certificate, a consular report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship. Any one of these official documents will do.

The passport office will also require a photocopy of the front and back of your chosen document to keep for their files.

At the passport office, you will need to present ID, such as an undamaged U.S. passport, a driver’s license, a certificate of naturalization or citizenship, a government employee ID, a U.S. military or military-dependent ID, a valid foreign passport or Mexican Consular Identification. Naturally, they will require a photocopy of the front and back of your ID as well.

You need to provide a passport photo that meets U.S. passport photo requirements, such as sizing, background and facial expression.

If you have a special circumstance, you might also need accompanying paperwork. Take a look at the comprehensive list of special circumstance documents at travel.state.gov.

How do passport photographs work?

It is not really recommended to take a passport photo yourself, as the rules and regulations are so strict. Some post offices and pharmacies offer passport photo services. Fortunately, in addition to this passport FAQ, AAA also offers passport photo services at many branch locations, making the process much easier for AAA members.

In a passport photo, your head must be facing the camera with a neutral facial expression. You cannot be taking up too much or too little of the frame, and you must be wearing “neutral clothing.” You have to be standing in front of a plain white background, with no glasses and no non-religious hat or head coverings. The shadows can’t even be too extreme. The photo must have been taken within the past six months, and it must be printed in color. The dimensions are 2 x 2 inches.

Can I retake my picture?

The only way to change the photo on your passport is to renew your entire passport with a DS-82 form and a new picture. Usually, you don’t have to change your picture unless your appearance has drastically changed since the time of the last photo. Most physical changes over the course of 10 years are considered very minor by Border Patrol agents.

What passport services does AAA offer?

As noted above, AAA branch offices have passport and immigration photo services, with special pricing for AAA members. Though AAA does not issue passports or process passport applications, DS- forms are available at all branch offices. AAA branch offices can also help you with many passport FAQs in person.

How long does it take to get a passport?

It usually takes approximately eight to 11 weeks for routine service. It might take longer, so give yourself some wiggle room by applying as early as you can.

“If you want to travel this year, check your passport now,” said Chuck Nardozza, managing director of travel sales at AAA Northeast.

Nardozza advises travelers to check the passport status of everyone in your travel party, share your passport status with your travel advisor and book travel that ensures your return date is at least six months before your passport is set to expire.

Can I rush my passport to get it faster?

You can usually get an expedited passport within five to seven weeks by mail or by visiting an acceptance facility.

Travelers with a life-or-death emergency can make an appointment at a passport agency or center to receive a passport within within 72 hours. You still have to do all of the paperwork, and you have to present proof of the emergency.

Looking for more ways to speed up the process? You can also use RushMyPassport, an expedited passport courier service. You simply fill out the appropriate paperwork, mail it to RushMyPassport via FedEx, and your documents are hand-carried to the U.S. Department of State. There is an extra fee for this service, but AAA members receive an exclusive discount.

How long does my passport last?

If you were 15 or younger when you received it, it will last five years. If you were 16 or older when you received it, it will last 10 years.

How do I correct or change information on my passport?

If you require a correction for the gender listed on your passport, you must re-apply using form DS-11. You will need to present photo ID, a new passport photo, proof of your legal name change and a medical certificate that states you are either in the process of transitioning or have already transitioned.

If you are changing your name, you must re-apply using form DS-5504. You will need to present your old passport, an original or certified document of your name change and a new passport photo.

To correct a data or printing error, you must use form DS-5504. You will need your incorrect passport, a passport photo and evidence of error. There are usually no fees to correct such errors.

Does my child need a passport for international travel?

Yes. It does not matter how old they are. They need one.

Both parents must be present to sign the passport application, or the absent parent or guardian can sign a statement of consent. The child also needs to appear with the parents in person for the application.

Do I need a passport to go to Mexico or Canada?

Yes. You need a passport for international travel even within North America. You can also use a passport card if you are traveling by land or sea. New York residents can use a DMV-issued Enhanced Driver License to return to the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and some countries in the Caribbean.

Starting in 2025, a passport or Real ID will be needed to fly domestically. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a passport card?

A passport card is a smaller and less expensive version of a passport. It is about the same size as a driver’s license. It is meant for people who live near borders and regularly have to cross them. Passport cards are only applicable for travel to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. They cannot be used on any international flights – only by land or sea.

What happens if my passport gets stolen or lost while abroad?

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and tell the consular officer about your lost or stolen passport. Provide staff with your travel details so that they can help you get a new passport.

You will need a new passport photo, ID, evidence of U.S. citizenship, a travel itinerary, a DS-11 passport application, a DS-64 statement regarding a lost or stolen passport, a police report if available or applicable and the normal passport fees.

Travel insurance may help if your passport is lost or stolen. Learn more about AAA Northeast’s Travel Protection Plan with Allianz.

What are your favorite passport tips and tricks? Do you have any other inclusions for this passport FAQ? Let us know in the comments. 

Need a new passport photo? Get your picture taken at a AAA branch location. 

This post was last updated on March 11, 2024. 

A long road trip is much easier when you’re not the only one doing the driving. It’s safer too. If one of you starts to feel drowsy or cramp up, the other driver can take over and play navigator for a while.

While each company has its own rules, this general guide can help you understand more about adding drivers to your car rental reservation, taking some of the stress and guesswork out of the process.

Why would I want to add another driver?

It might be boring to be the only one with driving duty — but more importantly, it can be dangerous. Driving for hours on end can sometimes be exhausting, and falling asleep behind the wheel is a real risk on a long road trip. Even if you’re not planning on sharing the wheel, it’s smart to be prepared if your passenger needs to take your place.

Adding another driver can also greatly reduce the time you might need to spend on the road, since you and your co-pilot can trade places instead of pulling over to rest (or even pulling into a hotel at night). This is a great asset to have when you’re on a time crunch. Less time can be spent at rest areas and more time can be spent covering ground.

Who can drive your rental car?

The people who are automatically covered in a rental car agreement are “Authorized Operators.” An Authorized Operator can be your employer, employee or coworker if you’re on a company business trip together (and have booked your rental car through your company). They can also be your spouse, if you’re renting in certain states like California, Iowa or New York.  

Can I add anyone else?

A driver who is added to the rental paperwork is called an “Additional Authorized Operator.” Additional Authorized Operators must be present at the time of the rental and must sign on to the rental agreement themselves at the rental location. The additional driver must also present their driver’s license and a valid credit or debit card.

How much does it cost to add more drivers?

The main reason that most renters hesitate to add an Additional Authorized Operator is that they often come with extra fees. These fees vary across rental companies and state lines. Hertz, for example, charges an extra fee of $13.50 per day per additional driver. Additional Authorized Operators who are between 21 and 25 may be asked to pay an age differential fee as well, since many companies consider younger drivers an insurance risk.

In New York State, fees for Additional Authorized Operators of rented cars are capped at $3 a day. But remember: State laws apply to the state that you are renting the car in to begin with — not the state that you’re going to be driving to.

Do AAA Members get any discounts for Additional Authorized Operators?

Car rental companies like Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty waive the additional driver fee when both the renter and the additional driver are AAA members. Spouses and domestic partners of AAA members are not required to have a separate AAA membership to receive the same discount. If you want to access a AAA discount, your AAA Club Code must appear on the rental. You could also present a valid AAA membership card or a AAA credit card.

At Hertz, AAA members receive the best rate available at the time of reservation, so you can get additional savings on top of the waived fee for extra drivers. AAA members also receive free unlimited mileage on most Hertz rentals, which is perfect for the type of trip that necessitates more than one driver. You can enjoy the open road without worrying about an extra Additional Authorized Operator fee and without thinking about the miles you’re racking up.

Whether you’re headed out on a long adventure or just want a little company, adding another driver to your rental car is easier than ever. Driving just isn’t the same when you’re doing it alone.

Rent with Hertz and take advantage of exclusive AAA discounts today.

Universal life insurance is a type of life insurance coverage offering lifelong protection. It comes with flexible premiums and a death benefit payout, along with a tax-deferred cash value that policyholders can eventually borrow against. 

We asked AAA Northeast insurance agents Jeffrey Bechtold and Candice Burroughs what universal life insurance covers, how to purchase a policy and what insurance agents wish their customers knew about universal life insurance policies. Here’s what they had to say. 

Get a universal life insurance policy with AAA.

What Is a Universal Life Insurance Policy? 

Universal life insurance is a permanent life insurance policy. It lasts for the duration of the policyholder’s life, as long as they fulfill their obligations to maintain their coverage.

Unlike whole life insurance, universal life insurance gives policyholders the flexibility to adjust their premiums and the value of their death benefit for the duration of their policy. 

It also comes with a built-in cash value that accumulates interest over time. 

What Coverage Does Universal Life Insurance Include? 

A universal life insurance policy offers more than just a death benefit, according to Bechtold.

“Universal life insurance gives you lifelong coverage starting at $100,000 and going up into millions, paying that amount to your loved ones when you pass away. In addition, universal life insurance includes a cash value feature that can grow inside the policy. Over time, that cash value can build up as you make payments,” he said. 

“You may be able to use it in the future for things like supplementing income or helping pay premiums, while still keeping your coverage in place.”

What’s One Thing You Wish Customers Knew About Universal Life Insurance? 

“I wish policyholders knew about how much flexibility universal life insurance gives you over time,” Bechtold said. “You get lifelong protection, the potential to build cash value you can tap into and the ability to adjust premiums or coverage as your life and goals change.” 

Who Is Universal Life Insurance Best for? 

• People looking for lifetime coverage. If you’re looking for coverage that lasts your whole life and pays out a death benefit to your family, universal life insurance might be the right choice.
• Customers who value flexibility. Universal life insurance offers a unique opportunity to adjust premiums and death benefits for clients who need extra flexibility.
• Those with long-term savings goals. If you want to build long-term savings combined with a death benefit, a universal life insurance policy might be right for you. 
• People seeking lower premiums than whole life. Universal life insurance comes with lower premiums than whole life insurance.

How Can I Purchase a Universal Life Insurance Policy? 

Burroughs shared the simple steps to purchasing a universal life insurance policy.

“Clients can easily purchase a universal policy after they’ve found a life insurance professional who can help them assess their financial goals and complete an application,” Burroughs said. “You’ll also need to schedule a paramedical exam.” 

Work with an AAA Northeast agent today and discover if universal life insurance is right for you.

For answers to more of your insurance questions, check out our Ask an Insurance Agent series.

Crude oil prices settled sharply higher on April 2, ending the holiday-shortened trading week. West Texas Intermediate settled at $111 a barrel and Brent finished at $109 amid signs of continued escalation in the conflict, which has caused massive disruption to global petroleum markets since it began on Feb. 28. 

Even as higher gasoline prices are causing pain at the pump, it hasn’t yet quelled demand from U.S. drivers, according to the latest data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The EIA reported demand last week reached a solid 8.68 million barrels a day — 191,000 barrels a day higher than the same week last year. Demand over the past four weeks has averaged 111,000 barrels a day higher than the comparable period a year ago.  

The steady demand, along with fuel distributors pushing the last of winter-blend gasoline out of the system, has led to a steady drawdown of domestic inventories. Gasoline supplies have fallen for seven straight weeks, according to the EIA. They declined by 600,000 barrels last week but remain above year-ago levels and the five-year average. The still ample supply of gasoline has helped ease some pressure on gas prices since the war began. 

“Rising gas prices have not led to a dip in demand at this point,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “As the busy spring and summer driving seasons get underway, time will tell if higher prices have any impact on drivers’ appetite for hitting the road.” 

AAA’s April 6 survey of fuel prices found the national average up 12 cents from last week ($3.99), averaging $4.11 per gallon. The April 6 national average price was 79 cents higher than a month ago ($3.32) and 86 cents higher than last year ($3.25). 

Region	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$4.08	$3.93	$3.17	$3.10
Massachusetts	$3.93	$3.80	$3.15	$2.99
New Jersey	$4.09	$3.87	$3.19	$3.06
New York	$4.06	$3.93	$3.22	$3.13
Rhode Island	$3.99	$3.82	$3.15	$2.99

*Prices as of April 6, 2026 

As of April 6, Oklahoma and Kansas had the lowest prices in the nation at $3.27 and $3.36, respectively. California and Hawaii had the highest prices in the nation at $5.92 and $5.59, 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.  

You’re in a parking lot when you hear it — an almost otherworldly sound, as if you are being summoned by aliens or angels. Then an electric vehicle rolls by.

EV sounds are becoming more common and varied. Some emit futuristic hums, while others sound more ethereal or replicate combustion engine noise. The BMW M sound was even composed by Hans Zimmer.

Listen to this playlist to hear the many different types of EV sounds.

Why the symphony? Unlike gas-powered cars, EVs and hybrids are quiet — so quiet that a certain amount of noise is now required for pedestrian safety.

Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems

Since Sept. 1, 2020, hybrids and EVs have been required to emit warning sounds using an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System or AVAS when stationary, in reverse or traveling less than 18.6 mph.

The minimum sound level is to ensure pedestrians, bicyclists and people who are blind or hearing-impaired can detect EVs and hybrids over background noises, according to a U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ruling. Other nations have adopted similar regulations.

Manufacturers are able to choose the EV sound, and some researchers are testing the most effective noises.

The required EV noises are still quieter than what a gas-powered vehicle emits but are sufficient to provide a “heads up” to pedestrians, said Jeff Allen, executive director of Forth Mobility, an advocacy group for electric vehicles.

Why EV Noise Is Good

EV motors are about 10 decibels quieter than gas cars, according to GRIDSERVE, so the integration of artificial sound makes sense for safety. In fact, studies have shown a correlation between sound regulations and a decrease in pedestrian collisions.

Casualty rates for EVs dropped from just over 137 per billion miles between 2014 and 2018 to about 58 per billion miles between 2019 and 2023, according to one study.

Manufacturers are taking the rules seriously. In December 2025, Mercedes-Benz recalled 1,899 of its 2024-2025 AMG EQE SUV models because their warning noise was not loud enough.

Exercise Caution Around All Vehicles

Not all research agrees that EVs pose a greater risk to pedestrians.

While a 2024 study by researchers in London found that pedestrians are more likely to be struck by an EV or hybrid, research by the University of Leeds found the pedestrian collision rate to be around the same as gas-powered cars.

But no matter the motor, people are safer in traffic when they remain aware. All cars are operating more quietly, and there is no room for distraction.

“Stay alert and engaged as a pedestrian, regardless of the type of vehicles around you,” said Greg Brannon, director of automotive engineering and industry relations for AAA.

For more about EVs, check out AAA’s dedicated EV website.

What do you think of the different EV sounds? Have you heard any out in the wild? Tell us in the comments.

Quick Summary: To safely deal with a tailgater, the most effective strategy is to stay calm, maintain a steady speed, and move to another lane as soon as it is safe to let them pass. Avoid “brake checking” or escalating the situation with gestures, as aggressive driving contributes to over 56% of fatal crashes. If a collision occurs, ensure you are protected with comprehensive auto insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance. Last Updated: April 7, 2026.

It’s frustrating when a slower driver keeps you from getting where you need to go, and it might be tempting to tailgate, but that’s never a good idea. To avoid being a tailgater all you need is an attitude adjustment and a lighter foot on the gas.

The problem comes when someone is riding your bumper so close you cringe every time you brake. You can trust your AAA insurance policy to protect you if you are involved in a crash, but these tips from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety will help you avoid and safely deal with tailgaters before the situation escalates.

Keep Calm and Drive On

The most important rule when dealing with a tailgater is to stay calm. That’s likely not your first reaction, but it’s the best one.

Your initial response is probably some combination of anger at the driver who is way too close and anxiety over the possibility they’ll hit you. Let those emotions pass. If you react with anger or fear and start driving erratically, you’ll only make the situation worse. Continue driving the speed limit, stay cool and obey traffic signals.

When You Need to Brake, Take it Slow

Tailgating is dangerous because it reduces the space between cars to an unsafe distance. If you suddenly hit the brakes, the tailgater may not have enough time to react and slow down before hitting your car.

If you’re being tailgated, be extra cautious when you brake. Don’t slam on the brakes for no reason – and certainly not to be spiteful. Unless it’s an emergency braking situation, brake gently. You want the tailgater to see you slowing down and have enough time to slow down as well.

If you do happen to get into a fender bender or worse, file an insurance claim if needed and remember AAA Roadside Assistance is available 24/7 if you need a tow.

Scenario	Recommended Action
Multi-lane Highway	Signal and move to the right lane immediately.
Single-lane Road	Maintain speed; pull into a lot or turnout when safe.
Feeling Anxious/Angry	Avoid eye contact and hand gestures; stay focused on the road.
Need to Slow Down	Brake gently and early to give the driver time to react.

Get Safely Out of the Way

If you’re on a multi-lane road and it’s safe to move to another lane, put on your turn signal and get out of the way. This is the easiest way to deal with a tailgater and end the situation. The driver behind you is being unsafe and if you can solve the problem simply by switching lanes, then do so as soon as possible. If there’s not another lane, consider turning into a parking lot.

It might be tempting to get angry at the tailgater and not let them pass. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Tailgating is a dangerous and aggressive driving tactic.

Aggressive driving, defined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association as a combination of moving traffic offenses that can endanger other people or property, is often the result of road rage and a major factor in fatal highway collisions each year.

A 2009 study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety based on the NHTSA’s Fatal Accident Reporting System, found that aggressive driving played a role in 56% of fatal crashes from 2003 through 2007. And according to recent NHTSA data, “following improperly” is among the top aggressive driving behaviors associated with fatal crashes.

It’s far easier to change lanes and let a tailgater pass than become one of those statistics.

Drive at a Comfortable Speed 

There’s the chance you’ll be tailgated on a road where there’s no safe way to let the tailgater pass. If you’re doing the speed limit, don’t speed up. No matter how impatient the driver behind you is, do not break the law and go faster than posted speed limits.

Driving at a speed where you’re confident and in control of your car is key. Do not be pressured into driving outside your comfort zone. That’s simply swapping one unsafe situation for another.

Avoid Confrontation

You’ve been glaring at the driver in your rearview mirror for 10 minutes when there’s finally room for him to pass. Fine. Let him pass, but don’t give him dirty looks or make rude hand gestures to let him know exactly how you feel about his tailgating as he speeds away. Responding to an aggressive driver with more aggression is not a responsible way of dealing with a tailgater.

Engaging an aggressive driver could escalate the situation into something even worse. The sooner the tailgater drives away, the better.

Aggressive driving tactics like tailgating are nerve-wracking. Keep calm, don’t overreact, and let the tailgater pass when possible so everyone safely arrives at their destinations.

FAQ

What should I do if someone is tailgating me on a single-lane road?
If you cannot change lanes, maintain your speed and do not feel pressured to speed up. Look for a safe place to pull over, such as a parking lot or a designated turnout, to let the faster driver pass safely.

Is it legal to “brake check” a tailgater?
No. Intentionally slamming on your brakes (brake checking) is considered aggressive driving and can lead to a rear-end collision for which you may be held partially liable. Instead, tap your brakes lightly to flash your lights or gradually reduce your speed.

How does tailgating affect road safety statistics?
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, aggressive driving behaviors—including tailgating—play a role in more than half of all fatal traffic accidents. Staying calm and allowing aggressive drivers to pass is the most effective way to stay safe.

How do you deal with a tailgater (safely)? Tell us in the comments.

Article Fact-Check: This safe driving guide was last updated on April 7, 2026, to reflect the latest safety data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

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.

Walking is one of the most convenient and beneficial forms of exercise. Recent research has revealed that even a small increase in step count can have a big impact on your health.

Walking Your Way to Better Health

Upping your step count can help improve your overall health, reduce your chances of developing heart disease and help you think more clearly, according to the American Heart Association.

“Walking also improves mental health by reducing feelings of anxiety and depression and helps with the quality of sleep,” according to Dr. Keith Diaz, associate professor of behavioral medicine and an exercise physiologist at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.

Just 2½ hours a week of brisk walking can have a significant effect on your well-being, according to the American Heart Association. But slow and steady can be impactful too.

“Research shows that even slow walking has health benefits,” said Diaz. “For example, we have found that slow walks for just five minutes every half hour to hour can lower blood sugar spikes after eating by almost 60%, reduce blood pressure by four to five points, improve mood and reduce feelings of fatigue.”

What Is the Ideal Step Count?

A common benchmark for walkers is 10,000 steps a day, and while striving for that many steps can’t hurt, setting achievable daily goals for yourself is more important than hitting a magic number, according to UCLA Health. Studies show that meaningful health benefits can start as low as 2,500 steps daily for adults, with optimal benefits typically reached around 7,000 to 8,000 steps.

Wearable fitness trackers are great for setting goals and keeping track.

How to Increase Your Daily Step Count

Walk While You Work

Find ways to incorporate more activity into the natural rhythms of your workday.

“At work, when you are talking on the phone, walk and talk instead of sitting. If you are having a one-on-one work meeting, have a walking meeting.  Instead of sending an email to a co-worker, walk to their desk and talk to them. Use a small water bottle that requires you to get out of your chair more often to refill,” said Diaz.

Choose to Move

Whenever you have the choice between being active or sedentary, choose active. Walk and talk when you’re on the phone. Take the dog for a stroll. Play with your kids or grandkids or walk them to school. If you have a question for someone in the same house, walk to them instead of yelling or texting them.

“Go shopping. Do housework. While many of our modern technologies add convenience, such as virtual shopping and robot vacuums, they are also taking away opportunities to walk, said Diaz.”

Make It Social

Get a walking buddy or join a walking club. Make it even more interesting by setting up a friendly competition with friends to see who can get the most steps in each week.

Does Walking In Place Count As Steps?

Of course! If you have room, you can make the most of time typically spent sitting by buying a walking pad to put under your desk or in front of the TV.

“In just [one hour], you can lightly walk 2-to-3 miles,” said Diaz.

Keep Moving

While it’s true that physical activity guidelines recommend 150 to 300 minutes a week of moderately intense physical activity, any movement is beneficial.

“Some walking is better than none,” said Diaz. “Even if you can’t hit 150 minutes in a week, you can still reap some of the health benefits of brisk walking.”

And have no doubts that walking is real exercise. Any activity that raises your heart rate for a sustained period of time — whether it’s walking, biking, swimming or dancing — is an aerobic exercise.

“What’s good about walking is that there is a low barrier to entry. It doesn’t require special equipment, training or skills,” said Diaz. “You don’t need an expensive gym membership. All you need is a pair of sneakers and a safe place to walk.”

How do you increase your daily step count? Share your tips in the comments.

This article is for information purposes only and should not be construed as advice. Speak with a doctor or health professional to determine the best exercise plan for you. 

Quick Summary: Automotive air conditioning evolved from primitive “car coolers” in the early 1900s to a near-universal feature today. Key milestones include Packard’s first factory-installed unit in 1940, the shift to engine-compartment systems in the 1950s, and the environmental transition to R-134a refrigerant in the 1990s. Today, over 99% of new cars come equipped with advanced climate control. Last Updated: April 7, 2026.

Summer brings with it a host of delightful sensations – the sun’s warmth on your skin, the smell of the ocean air, and the sight of early-morning sunrises and late-evening sunsets. It also gives rise to that dreaded, uncomfortable feeling every motorist has experienced: opening your car door in the middle of a hot day only to be keeled over by the wave of heat emanating from the vehicle’s interior.

The truth is, cars get hot. Dangerously hot, actually. Fortunately, nearly every American car is equipped with standard air conditioning. But this wasn’t always the case. Modern air conditioning was invented in the early 1900s and it took several more decades to devise a way to incorporate it into an automobile.

So, how did we go from relying on open rooftops and rolled-down windows to being able to turn our car into an icebox with just the press of a button? The history of air conditioning in cars has seen quite the evolution.

Early Automotive Cooling Systems

Although air conditioning in cars was still years away, the earliest vehicles had a distinctive advantage to beating the heat: they were open air. The earliest Model T’s, for example, had no doors and a collapsible hood. Drivers were likely more concerned about cold weather.

But closed-body vehicles quickly followed. For drivers and passengers to cool down in these cars, windows were rolled down while vents under the dashboard circulated air. However, these ventilation systems were crude and didn’t keep dirt, dust, pollen or insects from getting inside the vehicle.

Other primitive cooling devices included the Knapp Limo-Sedan Fan, a small electric fan mounted to the interior of a car, and the car cooler. This latter device was attached to roof of the car and used water evaporation to deliver cool air through an open window. It was known as the first product to lower a car’s cabin temperature. A car cooler could “reduce the inside temperature of the car as much as 15 to 20 degrees,” according to a Popular Mechanics article published at the time.

Era	Key Milestone	Innovation
Early 1900s	The “Car Cooler”	External units using water evaporation.
1940	Packard Factory AC	First built-in unit (located in the trunk).
1953	Engine-Mounted AC	GM moves AC units to the engine compartment.
1964	Comfort Control	Cadillac introduces thermostat-set temperatures.
1996	Refrigerant Shift	Industry-wide switch from R12 to R-134a.

Air Conditioning in Cars Arrives

The 1940s was a seminal time in the history of automotive air conditioning. To kick-start the decade, Packard became the first automaker to offer factory-installed air conditioning. It was followed closely by Cadillac, which introduced the feature in its 1941 models.

As one could imagine, these early cooling systems were far from perfect. The unit was located in the trunk of the vehicle, forcing the driver to get out of the car and manually install or remove the drive belt from the compressor to turn the air conditioning on and off. Secondly, the system could only recirculate air already in the cabin, not incorporate outside air. When a smoker was onboard, the air quickly become unbearable. Furthermore, the condensed water running overhead was known to drip down on passengers. If that wasn’t enough, these first systems had no control settings – they were either on or off.

Air conditioning, and auto manufacturing in general, took a back seat for much of the remaining decade as the country devoted its efforts to World War II.

The Post-War Rise in Air Conditioning

Euphoria was not the only thing gripping the country after the war: Waves of cool air started circulating coast to coast as air conditioning in cars became an option for most motorists. In 1953, General Motors, Chrysler and Packard all introduced new air conditioning systems. Three years later, every major American carmaker offered air conditioning as an option. An estimated 3,000 cars were equipped with air conditioning before the onset of World War II, according to automotive company Hagerty. By the end of the 1950s, that number had skyrocketed to 1 million.

The technology of these cooling units continued to improve as well. In 1953, General Motor’s Harrison Radiator Division devised a revolutionary system that could fit into a car’s engine compartment. About a decade later, Cadillac made a breakthrough of its own with the invention of comfort control. The system, which kept the cabin at a temperature set by the driver, worked by channeling some of the cold air to the heater core, thus mixing hot and cold air to keep the temperature steady. These enhancements only further popularized the use of air conditioning in cars. At the culmination of the 1960s, more than half of all new automobiles were equipped with air conditioning units.

Environmental Concerns

The 1970s brought with it a brand new problem for carmakers when it came to air conditioning units. Scientists had discovered that compounds known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were depleting the earth’s ozone layer. Automotive air conditioners used a CFC refrigerant called R12, better known as Freon. As the decade wore on, and the number of air conditioners in cars increased, it became increasingly clear that a new option needed to be developed.

After years of testing, a suitable replacement was found in the refrigerant R-134a. In 1987, the U.S. government signed the Montreal Compact, which, in part, required car manufacturers to make the switch in coolants by 1996.

Modern Automotive Air Conditioning

Nowadays, you’ll be hard pressed to find a vehicle on the market without air conditioning: Only 1% of passenger cars don’t offer it, according to Car and Driver magazine.

As you’d expect, these modern systems are highly advanced, with features such as dual and rear climate control, which allow separate temperature controls for the driver and passengers.

Automotive air conditioning is not without its drawbacks, however. Most notably is its effect on fuel efficiency. Air conditioning can reduce a conventional vehicle’s fuel economy by more than 25%, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. That number could be even greater in hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.

Some simple tips to limit the reduction in fuel efficacy include using air conditioning only at highway speeds, not idling with the air conditioner running, and opening the windows before driving to let hot air out of the cabin before turning on the air conditioning.

FAQ

Which car company was the first to offer air conditioning?
Packard was the first automaker to offer factory-installed air conditioning in 1940. Cadillac followed shortly after with its own system in 1941 models.

How did early car AC systems work?
The first systems were located in the trunk. Drivers had to manually exit the car and adjust the compressor’s drive belt to turn the AC on or off. These units only recirculated cabin air and lacked adjustable temperature controls.

Why did car manufacturers change AC refrigerants in the 1990s?
Original systems used R12 (Freon), which contained chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) that depleted the ozone layer. Following the Montreal Compact, automakers transitioned to the more environmentally friendly R-134a by 1996.

Love learning about cars? Head to our auto history page.

Auto History Accuracy: This timeline of automotive innovation was last updated on April 7, 2026, to include the latest data on fuel efficiency and modern climate control systems.

Are you dreaming of a trip to Japan? If you’re like most first-timers, you plan to split your time between technicolor Tokyo and historic Kyoto. But many travelers also set aside a day or two to visit a countryside ryokan, one of the purest, most immersive experiences of Japanese hospitality.

That’s exactly what my husband and I did on our trip to Japan last year. Between Japan’s old and new capital cities, we stopped off in Hakone for a night at a ryokan. The experience was like stepping into a parallel world, where my husband and I were invited to slip off our shoes and don traditional robes for the evening and where soaking in a cypress tub of hot spring water was a typical afternoon activity. But our stay was also very structured, with strict rules and timetables.

What Is a Japanese Ryokan?

Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns. They’re also the perfect place to immerse yourself in Japan’s famous omotenashi, a deep-rooted hospitality that emphasizes mindfulness and preparedness down to the most minor details. Many ryokans also have onsen — bathing facilities built around natural hot springs.

Ryokan stays typically include kaiseki dinners and breakfasts. Kaiseki is a traditional multicourse meal highlighting various preparation techniques and seasonal ingredients. It is intricate, intriguing and often intimidating, as the many small courses feature foods unfamiliar to American palates.

My Experience Staying at a Japanese Ryokan

We stayed at Yama No Chaya, a ryokan in the forest at the end of a suspension bridge in Hakone, Japan. A car from the ryokan picked us up at the train station and took us to the inn, where a few staff members stood outside in greeting.

As we approached the doorway, we were instructed to stow away our shoes and put on slippers. Then, our designated attendant took us through a maze of hallways to a tatami mat room with two Western-style twin beds and an open-air cypress bath on the private balcony. We were asked to choose between two dinner time slots in the room. We were also invited to book a private timeslot on one of the ryokan’s large spring-fed onsens.

Because we were staying for only one night, we started enjoying the ryokan’s activities as soon as the attendant left the room. First up: a soak in the private onsen. In Japan, washing up before stepping into the bath is very important. Tubs are for soaking, not cleansing. Afterward, we headed to the glass-walled bar lounge for sake, Japanese rice wine, served in bamboo cups.

The meals are perhaps the most important element of a ryokan stay. We opted for a mid-evening supper to have time to enjoy the outdoor onsen before bed. The attendant brought in course after course — miso soup, several varieties of fish (raw and cooked), soba noodles, yaki mochi grilled on the table in front of us and so much more. As a picky eater, I found the meal enjoyable and challenging. Breakfast the next morning was even more difficult. Starting the day with cups of green tea, onion soup, tofu and baby eels was not easy for me.

Checkout was at 10 a.m. sharp — a fact we were politely reminded of more than once. When we exited the room at 9:50 a.m., our attendant stood outside the door, waiting to escort us out. As we switched footwear at the entrance, our luggage was whisked away while our attendant bid us a rushed farewell.

Whoosh! In what felt like the blink of an eye, the tranquil world of the ryokan evaporated, and we were off to Tokyo.

What Is the Ideal Length of Stay?

For us, one night was rushed but still worth it. Most ryokans invite guests to check in between 5 and 3 p.m. Checkout is 10 a.m., which is early by American standards.

If you have the time and budget, a two-night ryokan stay is ideal. You’ll have more time to soak in the surroundings, enjoy the lounge, and spend more time in the onsen.

Should You Stay in a Ryokan?

Before you book a ryokan stay, it’s important to understand that Japanese ometenashi is a two-way street. Ryokan owners and staff exude deep respect and care for you as the guest, but you must also show deep respect and care for the ryokan’s culture and traditions. If you’re not willing to spend a pretty penny for an experience that requires you to pay attention to details and social expectations, skip the ryokan.

That said, staying at a ryokan is one of the best ways to experience Japanese hospitality. Ryokans are not luxurious in the way that European grand dame hotels or Tokyo high-rises are, but they are authentic. They are peaceful and deeply immersive. You will discover something new.

Ultimately, it’s up to you whether a Japanese ryokan experience is worth your time and money. You will walk away from a ryokan with memories and a deeper knowledge of Japanese traditions. But, if you’re exploring Japan for the first time and don’t make it to a ryokan, rest assured that you’ll still have a fantastic time.

Plan your Japan vacation with a AAA travel advisor. Travel advisor services are included with your membership at no extra charge.

Have you ever been to Japan? Would you like to go and stay in a ryokan? Tell us in the comments.

America’s first national park, Yellowstone National Park attracts four million visitors a year from across the country and all corners of the world. Spread across nearly 3,469 square miles in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, the park offers visitors a glimpse at some of the West’s most famous fauna, such as grizzlies, buffalo and wolves.

Guests also marvel at evidence of the earth’s active geothermal activity with the park’s bubbling hot springs and gushing geysers, and can enjoy the serenity of the wide-open valleys and the sparkling stars in the dark, velvety night sky.

This Yellowstone National Park guide will help you plan the trip to this national treasure that best suits your interests.

Visitors can access Yellowstone National Park through one of its five entrances and learn more about its history, geography and geology, and wildlife at one of the 10 visitor centers located throughout the park.

Though the park is open year-round, its busiest season is late spring until early fall. Cold-weather lovers can tour portions of the park in the winter and partake in the activities described later in this Yellowstone National Park guide, but not all roads and sites are accessible, and the majority of services are not open during the coldest months.

Yellowstone National Park’s natural beauty

 Yellowstone’s mountains, lakes and rivers are breathtaking, but what attract the biggest crowds are its geothermal sites. Mammoth Hot Springs, near the North Entrance, entices viewers to walk along boardwalks through multicolored travertine terraces and steam rising from the boiling springs and mud pots.

Other hot springs, many featuring vibrant colors due to the water’s mineral content, are scattered throughout Yellowstone. The largest at 370 feet wide and 125 feet deep is the Grand Prismatic Spring, located in the Midway Geyser Basin in the western portion of the park. For those seeking a more dramatic display of the earth’s power, the geysers are the main attraction. Yellowstone contains around 60 percent of the world’s geysers, with Old Faithful being the best known.

To avoid the crowds at the most popular sites, visitors should explore some of the less-well-known areas of the park, such as the Lamar Valley, where the wide-open spaces attract large herds of buffalo and other animals. We recommend arriving either early or later in the day – before 9 a.m. or after 3 p.m. is best. Or consider planning a visit in the non-peak seasons of April and September.

What to do: A guide to Yellowstone Park activities

From late May until October, adventure seekers can hike the park’s numerous trails on multiday treks or shorter day trips, raft on the rivers, fish in the streams and lakes, horseback ride, bicycle both on the roads and on mountain bike trails and take self-guided or guided tours to view the area’s abundant wildlife.

In the wintertime, intrepid outdoor enthusiasts trade the crowds of summer for a more peaceful experience in Yellowstone. However, many of the park’s roads are not plowed in the winter, so some of the sites are accessible only by snowmobile, skis or dogsled.

The western portion of Yellowstone boasts some of most sought-after snowmobile trails in the West, such as the Continental Divide trail, earning it the nickname of “Snowmobiling Capital of the World.”

For those seeking a quieter method of travel or one that provides more of a workout, cross-country skiing can be enjoyed on all of the park’s roads and miles of trails. Though some trails are groomed, most are not. Unfortunately, the popular Biscuit Basin Trail, which loops through Old Faithful’s basin, is closed until further notice, due to a 2024 hydrothermal explosion. When snow blankets the terrain, some of the park’s wildlife hibernate or migrate to warmer lands, but many, such as buffalo, elk and wolves, are still active. Visitors can take guided tours to see these creatures, or they can snowshoe or ski out on self-guided tours.

Where to stay

 When visiting Yellowstone National Park, visitors have several options for where to stay. In keeping with the great outdoors vibe of the park, many people opt to camp, whether in a camper or tent at one of the park’s 12 campgrounds or completely off the grid in one of the 300 backcountry campsites.

The park also has nine lodges for those who want a bit of comfort with their nature experience. Two of the lodges, Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, are also open in the winter. Visitors can also stay outside the boundaries of the park in the many resorts, hotels, and motels nearby.

Where to eat

The park contains many restaurants, from fine dining in the lodges to casual grab-and-go snacks. Many guests bring food for enjoying in one of the park’s many picnic areas. Some have fire grates for cooking, but visitors are advised to bring their own water because not all sites offer potable water.

 Have you ever visited Yellowstone National Park? Would you like to? Tell us in the comments.

Plan a national park vacation with AAA. 

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.

Like a jigsaw puzzle, Santorini’s iconic cliffside village of Oia has been torn apart and pieced back together before. In 1956, an earthquake destroyed many of its famous sterile-white structures and the cave dwellings behind. Today, the Greek island is rebuilt and a must-see on any Mediterranean trip.

Photo by Karen Diehl

When considering a Wales vacation, there’s a lot to be said for the adage that good things — or in this case, great things — come in small packages. After all, this petite country, which shares a border with England and is caressed by the Irish Sea, is only about the size of Massachusetts. But it’s also majestic, dotted with lofty mountains and dramatic castles, and rimmed by a coastline of pristine beaches.

Wales is packed with so many treasures that it will easily enchant travelers with a wide range of interests. Whether you’re an art aficionado, bird-watcher, history buff, thrill-seeker or botanical enthusiast, you’ll find something to satisfy your curiosity and tantalize your senses. These 10 things to see in Wales represent just a small sampling of this country’s many noteworthy sights that are all worth exploring.

Trek Along Conwy’s Town Walls

Soaring some 50 feet high, the well-preserved 13th-century walls of Conwy make for a dramatic stroll through the ancient battlements and multiple towers. Among the picturesque views are boats anchored in the harbor, the River Conwy, entrance to the Irish Sea and, on a clear day, the peaks of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). Built by the English King Edward I along with Conwy Castle when he conquered Wales, these well-preserved walls can provide an extra thrill with the sometimes vertigo-inducing sheer drops along the less-than-a-mile walk.

Explore Blooming Gardens

You could easily spend a full, leisurely day ambling along the winding trails that network the expansive, tiered Bodnant Garden, set in the foothills of Eryri. For horticulturists, there’s plenty to love, including the waterlilies that cover the picturesque ponds in the Italianate Terrace area, wildflower meadows speckled with colorful native specimens and the woodland valley (The Dell) alive with the sounds of cascading water. In late May/early June, the Laburnum Arch attracts the most attention, with its brilliant yellow blooms that drape a 180-foot-long pergola.

Prowl Around an Elizabethan Mansion

Plas Mawr, a lavish 16th-century town house, opens a window into the life of the Tudor gentry. Owned and rebuilt by Robert Wynn, a wealthy, well-traveled gentleman, this grand mansion is noted for its rich plasterwork, colorful heraldry and ornately carved wood elements, all showing off his status. As you roam inside and outside this
multi-story dwelling with audio guide in hand, you’ll spot a fireplace painted to resemble marble, Wynn’s wife’s Dorothy’s chamber bedecked with a luxurious four-poster bed and a small garden planted with flora once popular in the 17th century.

Traverse a Unique Aqueduct

Whether you paddle by canoe or kayak, walk the adjacent tow path or take a narrow boat ride across the
1,000-foot-long Pontcysyllite Aqueduct, you’ll feel like you’re floating (125 feet) above the swiftly flowing River Dee and its surrounding Bucolic Valley. The world’s highest navigable aqueduct, it is barely 12 feet wide with no protective railing on the non-towpath side, this makes for a dramatic but serene crossing. On a guided boat tour, you’ll learn why the aqueduct’s design was considered innovative when its construction was completed in the early 19th century.

Examine a Neolithic Burial Chamber

Wandering past the gate into this remote, verdant field, you’ll be awestruck by an impressive megalithic monument that appears precariously placed. With a flat, 16-ton capstone hovering eight feet off the ground, balanced atop three giant boulders, Pentre Ifan is thought to be a Neolithic communal burial chamber dating back 5,500 years. These stones and other nearby features would originally have been covered by a mound of boulders and turf. Curiously, these rocks are composed of the same local bluestone found at Stonehenge.

Participate in a Salt Tasting

A 45-minute tour of the Halen Mon Sea Salt Company may entirely change your views on this seasoning. Their handmade salt production removes the calcium that can lend a bitterness to typical salts. This is readily apparent at their tastings, which include sampling their specialty products such as oak-smoked salt and salt flavored with cumin and turmeric. Their award-winning salt was even served at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Don’t miss the spa experience: a local seaweed hot soak using water from the salt processing.

Descend to a Cliffside Chapel

Navigate down a series of steep stone steps to find the entrance to the wee, 13th-century St. Govan’s Chapel, perched under the limestone Pembrokeshire cliffs. According to legend, St. Govan, a 6th-century hermit monk, fled from pirates by slipping through a fissure that transformed into a cave. The chapel honors Govan, who lived his life in this windswept landscape. In the main chamber, you’ll notice a simple stone altar and benches; in the second, his original hiding spot — a wall which bears ripples — is said to be his rib impressions as the cave wrapped around him.

Bird Watch in a Historic Landscape

With myriad narrow paths and footbridges allowing easy access to the placid Bosherston Lily Ponds, birders and non-birders alike will find plenty to enjoy at Stackpole Estate. Dating from the 18th century, this trio of man-made ponds is coated with a carpet of blossoming lily pads, especially in June. Colorful dragonflies can be seen flitting about. No matter what route you take, you may spy moorhens, and maybe even a kingfisher. Veer away from the ponds to visit Broad Haven South, a stellar beach backed by sandy dunes and coastal cliffs.

Watch Artists at Work

Ensconced in a converted 19th-century chapel, the Goat Street Gallery is brimming with a diverse array of creative works: collages made from repurposed book covers, furniture crafted from reclaimed wood and decorative cutlery fashioned from found objects. You may even catch the married owners — textile artist, Amanda Wright and ceramicist, Daniel Wright — working. Amanda’s hand-stitched embroidery often embraces nature-based themes, whether it’s a curlew sandpiper or an Atlantic salmon. Dan’s hand-thrown earthenware combines traditional techniques with modern screen printing to produce pottery bearing images of local landmarks.  

Tour a Family-Owned Woolen Mill

Depending on their production schedule, you’ll observe different timeless patterns being woven on numerous looms in Melin Tregwynt, a renowned woolen mill that’s been around since the mid-1800s. Snuggled on a secluded, foliage-draped property, this white-washed factory manufactures wool bedspreads and throw blankets found in top-tier hotels all over the UK and across Europe. Stop in their gift shop that’s also stocked with wool cushions, apparel and accessories. And, in fine weather, sit at a picnic table beside a small stream and nibble on a grilled Welsh cheddar sandwich with onion marmalade from their restaurant.

Start planning your Wales vacation with a AAA travel advisor.

You’ve Read About it — Now Experience It

AAA travel advisors will turn your inspiration into a memorable vacation, providing trusted guidance and exclusive member benefits. Connect with us to learn more.

Call 888-780-5185 ☎️  |  Find a AAA Branch  |  Contact Online

We asked some of our members how long they have belonged to AAA, and answers ranged from one month to 70 years! Whether it’s the pro travel planning services or the peace of mind that comes with our dependable roadside assistance, here’s how they make the most of their memberships and why they continue to renew every year.

“I might have been the youngest member of AAA. I became a member in 1951, and I was born in 1942, and I’m still a member in 2026. That makes me a member for 75 years. My father thought that I should join AAA (when I was 9) because of my interest in everything automobiles. Also, I was interested in road maps and trip planning along with roadside safety. As a fourth grader I did a class project about AAA and its value to the driving public.”

—Michael C., Westchester County, N.Y.

“I’ve been with AAA for 70 years. In 1954, I learned to drive with AAA in New York City. In 1959 I went on a seven-week AAA tour of Europe — to England, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and France — with two weeks sailing the Atlantic coming and going. I have driven cross-country alone twice, using the AAA TripTiks and motel recommendations. I continued driving until January 2022. I am now 95 years old and miss driving.”

— Joy H., Westchester, New York

“I have been a AAA member since 1973 and have been constantly pleased by the service I received for more than 50 years! Thank you!”

— David K., Vermont

“During my 40-year membership, my family and I have relied on AAA for planning vacations. For many years, every time we traveled, which was often, we would go to AAA for maps and books and base our trips on AAA information.”

— Linda A., Hamden, Connecticut

“I have been a AAA member for 19 years and came to the AAA branch in Garden City, New York, with my daughter-in-law to help her surrender license plates and register a new car. There is no question when it comes to whether you go to the Department of Motor Vehicles or AAA. They are pleasant, efficient and fast. I got my license renewed here. They are courteous and knowledgeable. I use many services. I’ll be planning a trip in 2026, and I’ll come here to plan it.”

— Anthony R., West Hempstead, New York

“I’ve been a member since 2017. I’ve used the roadside services a lot. My family has used AAA to plan trips. I use the Amtrak discount a lot because my sons are in Washington, D.C. I feel very comfortable with AAA.”

Lisa K., Freeport, New York

“We have been members for at least 20 years. It’s the convenience — if you have a problem, they are there for you.”

— Oswald D., Hempstead, New York

“I’ve been a member for 25 years. I joined for the security and for the kids. I’ve primarily used the roadside services and DMV services. I’ve been happy with the services, the roadside services in particular.”

— Mike M., Long Beach, New York

“I’ve been with AAA for 30 years. We’ve gotten a lot of satisfaction out of it; it’s just an excellent organization. I’ve used it for flat tires, a dead battery and today, I’m using it for the DMV services.”

— Gail C., South Hempstead, New York

“I’m 59 and have been a member since I was 18. I use roadside assistance a lot. I have a lot of used cars, and I use the DMV services. I encourage other people to join for the DMV services.”

— Craig E., Melville, New York

“I just joined a month ago. I came in to the Garden City, New York, branch for travel services and Tom O’Hara (travel adviser) suggested I become a member. I’m planning a cruise and land trip to Greece, where I’ll be visiting family. I’ll use AAA for my car if necessary.”

— Mary N., Rockville Centre, New York

How long have you been a AAA member? Tell us in the comments.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

When reading your home insurance policy — or any insurance policy, for that matter — it’s easy to get lost in the verbiage and jargon.

Two of the most bewildering terms for home policyholders are actual cash value vs replacement cost. At first glance, one might mistake these policies as being similar or interchangeable, but they are not the same. Being unaware of the difference could affect your coverage.

With housing values going up (and insurance rates going up with them), it could be a good time to update your home insurance, particularly whether you are covered for actual cash value or replacement cost. It could mean more money in your pocket.

Actual Cash Value vs Replacement Cost Coverage Explained

The big difference between actual cash value and replacement cost is depreciation: the decrease in value of an item due to factors such as age, obsolescence and wear and tear. How insurance depreciation works is as follows:

An actual cash value policy pays the amount needed to replace a lost or damaged item, minus depreciation.

Replacement cost provides the sum needed to replace a damaged item with one of similar kind and quality without deducting depreciation.

It is not always clear whether a policy pays actual cash value vs replacement cost. If you have any questions or doubts, review your policy with an insurance professional who can help you better understand how you are covered.

Think of It This Way …

When you make a claim, your insurance company determines your settlement or the compensation you will receive based on the type of policy you have. The Insurance Information Institute gives the example of a tree falling through your roof and onto your eight-year-old washing machine.

“If you had a replacement cost policy for the contents of your home, the insurance company would pay to replace the old machine with a new one. If you had an actual cash value policy, the company would pay only a percentage of the cost of a new washing machine because a machine that has been used for eight years would be worth less than its original cost.”

If the tree also damaged your 15-year-old roof so badly that it needed to be replaced, a replacement cost policy would pay the full cost of installing the new roof, while an actual cash value policy would only pay a percentage.

Choosing a Policy  

“Oftentimes a policy that pays actual cash value will have cheaper premiums than one that pays replacement cost,” said Jodi DeSantis, vice president of insurance services for AAA Northeast. But when it comes to getting sufficient coverage for your home, “don’t always go for the lowest cost option.”

What you save upfront may eventually end up costing you in the event you need it, especially in today’s volatile market. As the value of homes has gone up, so have building costs, and what was enough to cover repairs in the past, may not be enough now.

When you experience a loss, even if your entire home is damaged beyond repair, a standard homeowners policy will pay to replace it up to the limits of the policy. If your policy limit does not keep up with the current market where you live, you may not be adequately covered.

Some policies automatically increase your home coverage limits each year, which could be helpful, but still may not be sufficient in the current environment.

There is no time like the present to reach out to your insurance agent, review your policy and make any needed adjustments.

Schedule an appointment with a AAA insurance agent today.