Originally Posted by
Ritz
...I stay in hotels about 100 nights a year, for the last 15 years - and I believe i was asked once. However, I almost exclusively stay within the Hilton family of hotels - so maybe they just aren't told to ask.
As I believe was mentioned above, the Hilton HHonors website makes you enter your AAA number online in order to see the AAA rates -- it's done this for the last couple of years or so. That would certainly reduce the need for the desk clerk to ask to see the card. @:-)
I've occasionally been asked to show a card at various hotel chains over the years.
But, as others have pointed out, AAA membership isn't just for hotel (and other, e.g. admissions) discounts. I've gotten maps and tourbooks from them each year, and occasionally had them send help when my car's battery was dead (no extra charge). I used to buy no-fee traveler's cheques from them (it's been years since I've used TCs, though). As well, I've sometimes used their smog inspection and auto inspection services (those are fee services, though).