Best Unlocked Phones for Seniors
Our top picks for unlocked phones offer solid value, network compatibility, and senior-friendly features.
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- Smartphone
- Enhanced speech-to-text features
- Android OS
- Flip phone
- Hearing aid compatible
- Android OS
- Fingerprint scanner for extra security
- Built-in voice assistant
- Access to thousands of apps
Contents
Whether you change phone carriers frequently or want to use a different carrier’s service when you travel internationally, unlocked phones have many perks. They offer the freedom to choose the plan and best cell phone for you without long-term commitments through a carrier.
Our tech experts tested the industry’s best unlocked phones and narrowed the search to our top pick for seniors. We evaluated each phone for important criteria like senior-friendly features, price, value, and network compatibility. Our team selected the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 as our top pick for its affordable price, enhanced accessibility features, and smartphone design.
Our Methodology: How We Chose and Tested the Best Unlocked Phones for Seniors
Testing out an iPhone with my grandma.
For this guide, we tested out the industry’s leading unlocked phones. After over 150 hours of trying out a dozen cell phones, researching, chatting with customer service, and making side-by-side comparisons, we found four unlocked phones for seniors that stood above the rest.
We evaluated the phones using several metrics, including senior-friendly features, quality, value, price, and carrier compatibility. Every cell phone had to meet the following criteria:
- Senior-friendly features: Not all unlocked phones are ideal for seniors. We only included phones on our list that meet older adults’ needs. These phones have features like large screens, voice texting capabilities, large text icons and buttons, and powerful speakers. We recruited older adults to provide feedback on the phones whenever possible.
- Value: We’re all about phones that offer the most bang for your buck. While our top picks come at various price points, you’ll find that the value matches or exceeds the price tag.
- Network compatibility: Our best unlocked phones for seniors are compatible with GSM and CDMA-based networks. GSM and CDMA are techie jargon, meaning these phones will work with virtually any carrier on the market!
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1. Moto G Power 5G From Consumer Cellular - Best for seniors with vision loss
What we like most
- Smartphone
- Enhanced speech-to-text features
- Android OS
Moto G Power 5G From Consumer CellularOverview:
Motorola Moto G Power 5G
Overview
The Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 is my pick for seniors with low vision. This powerful Android smartphone delivers a simple and easy-to-see design. I could make calls or send texts with just my voice thanks to the phone’s speech-to-text capabilities, an excellent feature for those with vision loss.
» Related Reading: Smartphone apps and resources for people with vision loss
The large 6.5-inch screen made reading texts, searching the internet, and following directions on the built-in GPS a breeze. Charging your phone won’t be a chore, as the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 boasts an impressive two-day battery life (even with heavy usage). That is perfect for those who forget to charge their phones (like me)!
Did You Know? Unlocked Motorola phones are compatible with prepaid carriers. Check out our best prepaid phone plans to discover which carriers made our list.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Moto G Power 5G From Consumer Cellular
- Large, bright display screen
- Built-in voice assistant
- Fingerprint sensor
- Long battery life
- Bluetooth enabled
- Water-repellent design
Cons About Moto G Power 5G From Consumer Cellular
- 4 GB of RAM is a little slow
- Speaker quality could improve
Summary:Specs and Features
Motorola Moto G Power Price $179 from AT&T Camera 48MP main camera; 2MP macro lens Operating system Proprietary Display 6.6-inch HD+ display Hearing aid compatibility M3/T3 rating Memory and storage 64 GB internal memory Network compatibility Works on both CDMA and GSM networks Weight 6.66 ounces Pricing
Like most unlocked phones, how much you pay for the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 will depend on where you buy it. Many third-party retailers sell the Motorola Moto G 5G for prices between $179 and $249. Since this model is technically a year old already (as of this writing), you could spend even less as newer models emerge. While you may have to temporarily give up having your phone unlocked to purchase through a carrier, this option often makes it easier to finance your phone with zero interest.
The great thing about buying an unlocked Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 phone is that you can use it with most carriers. That includes the nation’s largest mobile carriers, like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. However, we recommend Consumer Cellular, as it offers simple, no-nonsense plans starting at $20 monthly.
You can also buy the unlocked phone at a third-party retailer and bring it to Consumer Cellular when you’re ready for a phone plan. You can sign up online and get the SIM card shipped to your door. Or, you can head to a Consumer Cellular location and have someone set everything up for you. I’ve found that Consumer Cellular’s online sign-up process is quick and simple. Plus, I could score a 5 percent discount on service at checkout just for being an AARP member!
» Dive Deeper: Consumer Cellular’s plan pricing
In addition to its senior-friendly phone plans, Consumer Cellular offers some great deals on new phones — especially if you don’t want to spend a fortune upfront. If you finance a new Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 through Consumer Cellular, you can pay as little as $7 per month with a down payment of $11 and no interest. But here’s the catch — financing through Consumer Cellular means that you’re pretty much stuck with them until you pay off the phone. You can always pay it off early and switch to a new carrier. But you’ll still need to contact Consumer Cellular’s customer support and request that they unlock your phone. Even if your phone is paid in full, Consumer Cellular requires you to use their service for 30 continuous days before unlocking the phone.
Inside Tip: Head over to our Consumer Cellular review to learn more about adding your unlocked phone to one of their plans.
Usability
I sat down with the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 to see how it compares to other smartphones. The first thing that struck me was the size and brightness of the screen. The 6.5-inch, 120Hz display makes everything look crystal clear, a huge plus for seniors with diminished vision. I had no issues navigating the phone, using apps, and making calls in different lighting environments.
I loved how dedicated the system is to helping seniors with vision loss. With just a few clicks in the settings menu, I enabled all the features for low-vision users. The best feature was the utilization of gestures. I could use certain gestures to do specific tasks rather than manually navigating the phone. For example, I doubled-tapped the back of the phone with my finger to initiate a preset action. It could range from opening an app to playing music and everything else. Some of the more complex gestures, however, were harder to manage. The phone lets you open the camera by twisting your wrist twice, but you must do it quickly. If you struggle with arthritis (like my grandma does), you may find it difficult or uncomfortable to take advantage of these kinds of gestures.
» Related reading: Best smartphones for seniors
While the 4 GB of RAM is the same as you would get with the Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation), it pales compared to the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s 12 GB RAM. That said, I only had minor issues with the phone running slowly. Sometimes, when multiple apps were running in the background, loading a webpage or YouTube video took a few seconds. Still, the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 offers value for a mid-tier smartphone.
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2. Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T - Best Android phone
What we like most
- Smartphone
- Google Assistant
- Android OS
Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&TOverview:
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Overview
Google’s Pixel 8 Pro fits the bill nicely for Android lovers who want an unlocked, senior-friendly smartphone. The Android operating system is among the most widely available in the smartphone industry, so you’ll have no problem finding compatible apps. It certainly offers more than what you’ll get with the TCL FLIP Go’s KaiOS app store. Plus, Android is known for being user-friendly, so the learning curve might not be as steep for older adults. I also love that the Google Pixel 8 Pro comes with free automatic robocall filters, helping avoid spam calls. Many scams target older adults specifically, so I’m a big fan of security features like this.
» Check Out: Common scams that target the elderly
With several camera resolution options, the Pixel 8 Pro takes high-quality pictures of your grandkids or granddogs (we don’t judge)! Even though the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 boasts a great camera, the photos and videos on the Google Pixel 8 Pro still come out clearer and more vibrant. The phone’s large, bright screen is easy to see for older eyes, even if its size isn’t always easy to grip for older hands. This phone isn’t cheap, but it’s more affordable than many of the leading smartphones on the market. So, it’s great for older adults who want best-in-class tech and features.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T
- Google assistant
- High-tech smartphone
- Mobile apps through the Google Play store
- High-quality camera
- Large, bright screen for older eyes
- User-friendly Android design
- Built-in spam call blocker
Cons About Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T
- Higher price tag
- Mediocre battery life
- Large, heavy design may be a drawback for some
Summary:Specs and Features
Google Pixel 8 Pro Price $1,039.99 from AT&T Camera Front: 10.5MP; Rear: 48MP/48MP/50MP Operating system Android Display 6.7-inch Super Actua display Hearing aid compatibility M3/T4 rating Memory and storage 128 GB internal memory Network compatibility Works on both CDMA and GSM Networks Weight 7.5 ounces Pricing
The Google Pixel 8 Pro currently retails for $1,039.99 from AT&T. That’s more than double the retail price of the iPhone SE ($429) and nearly six times the price of the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 ($179). That is by far its biggest drawback. Many seniors may not want to spend that much money on a phone. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get the high-tech smartphone you want without spending a fortune.
» Helpful Resource: AT&T cell phone plans for seniors 2024
If you purchase your Google Pixel 8 Pro through AT&T and trade in an eligible phone, you can get the phone for free or at a greatly reduced cost. Like Consumer Cellular, AT&T will also let you finance the phone free of interest, with monthly payments as low as $28.89. Plus, AT&T offers some decent discounts for AARP members. Once again, purchasing a phone through AT&T means it will be locked — at first. Once the phone is fully paid off and you’ve used it with an AT&T plan for at least 60 days, you can ask AT&T to unlock it. That will allow you to switch to another carrier. But if you’re opposed to owning a locked phone for any period, you can also buy the phone from a third-party retailer.
Did You Know? AT&T offers an unlimited plan just for older adults. You can learn more about AT&T’s benefits for your unlocked Google Pixel 8 Pro in our AT&T review.
Usability
The Google Pixel 8 Pro gets two thumbs-up from me for its fast, 12 GB RAM system. Navigating the phone was easy, as its highly responsive touch screen reacts without delays. Even when I tried to push the phone to its limits — playing games, downloading multiple apps simultaneously, and streaming HD content — the phone didn’t show signs of slowing down! Even the iPhone SE wasn’t as fast as the Google Pixel 8 Pro. That’s saying a lot since iPhones are very fast, in my experience.
» Related Reading: The best iPhones for seniors
The one (potential) downside of the Google Pixel 8 Pro is that it can feel like a lot of phone to handle. There are tons of features hidden behind menus and complicated screens. It wasn’t always easy to figure out how to adjust settings or access safety features. I recommend the Google Pixel 8 Pro for seniors who have used an Android phone before and aren’t intimidated by high-tech devices. One great thing about the Google Pixel 8 Pro is its crash detection if you get into a collision while driving. If the phone detects a crash, it immediately contacts emergency responders for help. It could be a lifesaving feature, particularly for seniors who haven’t invested in an on-the-go medical alert system.
» Learn About: Senior driving statistics
One thing to keep in mind is that the Google Pixel 8 Pro is pretty big. If you hold your phone with both hands, it’s not much of an issue. However, the Google Pixel 8 Pro weighs 7.7 ounces, more than an ounce heavier than the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023. It might not sound like a huge difference, but I noticed the weight when I held the phone up to take photos or record videos. If you have arthritis or don’t want to carry a larger, heavier phone around, you may prefer the comparatively light TCL FLIP Go or iPhone SE.
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3. TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile - Most affordable
What we like most
- Flip phone
- Hearing aid compatible
- Android OS
Overview:
TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
Overview
The TCL FLIP Go is the most affordable phone on our list, priced at just $96. That makes it a great option if you’re on a tight budget. It’s also one of the best unlocked phones for seniors with hearing loss. The top-notch accessibility features impressed me. With an M4/T4 hearing aid rating, Bluetooth capability, 3.5mm headphone jack, and improved screen brightness and clarity, the TCL FLIP Go ensures those with hearing loss can easily stay connected.
If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use phone compatible with your hearing aids, look no further. The TCL FLIP Go has the highest hearing aid compatibility rating possible. Another plus is that the flip phone’s dual displays make using the phone very simple. With the external display, I didn’t have to open the phone to see who was calling. At the same time, the internal display is excellent for reading text messages and emails.
Pros & Cons:Pros About TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
- Easy-to-use flip phone
- Google Assistant
- Bluetooth and hearing aid compatible
- Real-Time-Text (RTT)
- Text Telephone (TTY)
- Large, tactile keys
Cons About TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
- Low-end 2MP camera
- No built-in flashlight
Summary:Specs and Features
TCL FLIP Go Price $96 from T-Mobile Camera 2MP Operating system Proprietary Display 2.8 inch internal display, 1.44-inch external display Hearing aid compatibility M4/T4 rating Memory and storage 8 GB internal memory Network compatibility Works on both CDMA and GSM Networks Weight 4.93 ounces Pricing
At just $96, the TCL FLIP Go is a great option for seniors who want a simple, reliable phone that won’t break the bank. Since it doesn’t have a high price tag (unlike the Google Pixel 8 Pro), it’s easier to buy without financing it through a carrier. You can buy your phone from a third-party retailer and switch carriers whenever. That said, T-Mobile sells the TCL FLIP Go, and is a great all-around mobile carrier for seniors.
If you buy your TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile, you can finance it with zero down and zero interest for as little as $4 per month. That’s a great deal for seniors on a tight budget. Plus, T-Mobile offers three 55+ unlimited phone plans with spectacular perks and pricing for seniors, starting at $45 monthly. I’m a big fan of T-Mobile’s features for travelers, like in-flight Wi-Fi, data and texting abroad, and plenty of hot spot data.
» Learn More: T-Mobile 55+ cell phone plans review
Usability
It’s difficult to get much simpler or more user-friendly than the TCL FLIP Go. It’s a big-button flip phone with a large internal and smaller external screen. My grandma had no issues flipping the phone open and figuring out how to use most features in minutes. I also love that the TCL FLIP Go combines features of more traditional flip phones with some of the perks of modern smartphones (including 4G LTE internet access and Wi-Fi connectivity).
» For Flip Phone Users: Best flip phones for seniors in 2024
For example, the TCL FLIP Go comes preinstalled with apps like Google Search, Google Maps, KaiNews, and KaiWeather. The flip phone uses the KaiOS operating system, which means you can also download hundreds of different apps from the KaiOS app store, including popular apps like Facebook and YouTube. However, the phone is quite limited compared to every other phone on this list. You won’t find nearly as many apps in the KaiOS app store as you could in the Google Play Store or the Apple iOS app store. Still, the TCL FLIP Go works surprisingly well and has more features than I would’ve expected. From the loud speaker to the excellent hearing aid compatibility, the TCL FLIP Go is especially great for seniors with hearing loss.
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4. iPhone SE from Consumer Cellular - Best smartphone
What we like most
- Fingerprint scanner for extra security
- Built-in voice assistant
- Access to thousands of apps
iPhone SE from Consumer CellularOverview:
Apple iPhone SE
Overview
The iPhone SE offers the right blend of affordability and modern tech. It’s an excellent option for older adults who want a smartphone with a little extra “oomph” and advanced features. It has high-quality cameras for family photos, a water-resistant design (accidents happen!), and a fingerprint passcode scanner for extra security.
It’s the least expensive (new) iPhone on the market. So, if you’re sold on an iPhone, it won’t break the bank. If you are familiar with Apple products, the iPhone SE transition will be a breeze. However, users new to the iOS operating system may face a learning curve. My grandma got her first iPhone a few years ago and got the hang of things pretty quickly. She is comfortable with her iPhone now. And if she ever has a question, she can ask me, her personal tech expert!
If you’re worried about pairing the iPhone SE with your favorite carrier, don’t be. iPhones are some of the easiest phones to use unlocked, as they’re accepted by nearly all carriers in the U.S. No matter what network you choose, you’ll likely be able to use your iPhone with it. For instance, I use my iPhone on AT&T, my grandma uses hers on T-Mobile, and my sister uses hers on Verizon!
Pros & Cons:Pros About iPhone SE from Consumer Cellular
- Built-in voice assistant
- Water-resistant design
- Wireless charging
- FaceTime video calling
- Access to thousands of mobile apps
- High-quality cameras
- Fingerprint passcode for security
- Retina HD display for older eyes
Cons About iPhone SE from Consumer Cellular
- No traditional headphone jack
- Steep learning curve for iOS system
- Screen is a little small for a smartphone
Summary:Specs and Features
iPhone SE (3rd Generation) Price Starting at $429 from Verizon Camera Front: 7MP; rear: 12MP Operating system Apple iOS Display 4.7-inch Retina HD display Hearing aid compatibility M3/T4 Memory and storage 64 GB internal storage Network compatibility Works on both CDMA and GSM networks Weight 5.09 ounces Pricing
The third iteration of the iPhone SE retails for $429. The price you pay will vary based on the storage option you choose. 64 GB of internal storage costs $429, but upgrading to 128 GB or 256 GB increases the price to $479 or $579, respectively. I’d recommend taking some time to consider how much storage you want. For context, I have a 128 GB iPhone, and my storage is almost full. My phone is packed with thousands of photos and videos, plus some data-hogging apps. If you’re big on taking photos and using mobile apps, consider upgrading to an option with higher storage.
» Related Reading: Best phone plans for seniors in 2024
If you buy directly from Apple, you could finance your unlocked phone with zero interest for as little as $17.87 monthly. I like that Apple makes buying any of its products online or in person at an Apple Store simple. That way, you can take advantage of financing without being locked down by a specific carrier. If you want to visit an Apple Store to buy your iPhone, I’d recommend making an appointment in advance! They get busy, especially during the evening and on weekends.
Even if you buy your unlocked iPhone SE directly from Apple, we recommend pairing it with one of Verizon’s competitively-priced plans. You can also finance your iPhone through Verizon with no money down, but you’ll need to wait 60 days from the date of purchase for Verizon to unlock it. They also won’t unlock it until you’ve paid for the phone in full.
» Learn More: Verizon senior cell phone plan review 2024
I’ve found that Verizon offers very reliable coverage, especially in remote or rural areas. I’ve used my iPhone on AT&T’s network during several trips with my sister, a Verizon user. She always seems to have service in areas where I don’t. So, if you travel or spend a lot of time outside of big cities, Verizon is a great choice.
Usability
Apple is among the best business in creating senior-friendly devices. The interface isn’t overly complicated. Even if you don’t have experience with Apple devices, the iPhone SE is easy to pick up and learn. My grandma had very few issues learning to use her iPhone (with a little help from me). It’s not quite as fast as the more expensive iPhones, but it’s well-balanced between affordability and advanced features.
For example, the iPhone SE is great for seniors with vision loss. You can easily increase text size, zoom in, and even tinker with transparency reduction. The iPhone SE is also compatible with most hearing aids and has plenty of features for seniors with hearing loss. One thing that we would’ve liked was a headphone jack like the TCL FLIP Go has. If you want to listen to music or stream content on the iPhone SE with greater privacy, you must use Bluetooth headphones.
» Useful Guide: Best iPhone-compatible hearing aids
What Is an Unlocked Phone?
Locked cell phones sold through a particular carrier use software to lock the phone, so it must be used on that network. For example, if you buy an iPhone from AT&T, you can only use the phone on AT&T’s network because it’s locked to the carrier. The carrier generally offers a discount on the phone in exchange for a contract commitment or payment plan. If you’re most people, you’ve probably taken advantage of significant discounts on device purchases in the past.
While we love a good deal, this type of discount locks you into one provider, so you’ll have to pay off the phone or deal with early termination fees if you want to switch carriers (in most cases). Plus, you’ll have to request to have the phone unlocked by the carrier before using it on another network; every carrier has different policies for unlocking phones. It can be a time-consuming and costly process, depending on your provider.
On the other hand, an unlocked phone isn’t tied to any one network. So, in theory, you could use it with a mobile plan from any carrier. An unlocked cell phone lacks any software restricting its use to a particular network. For instance, if you buy an iPhone directly from Apple, the manufacturer, you could use the phone with a SIM card from AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and other major carriers. An unlocked phone is typically more expensive upfront but gives users more choice over which network to use.
Pros and Cons of an Unlocked Phone
Cell phones allow us to stay connected with loved ones no matter where we are. That freedom only gets better when you invest in an unlocked phone. However, unlocked phones aren’t for everyone. Below are the pros and cons of unlocked phones for seniors to consider:
Pros About Unlocked Phones
- Freedom to choose any carrier: Hands down, the biggest reason that consumers pick an unlocked phone is the option to change carriers and plans at any time. An unlocked phone lets you break free from the endless cycle of upgrading and renewing contracts that are difficult and costly to get out of.
- Wider selection of senior-friendly phones: With unlocked phones, you aren’t limited to the selection of phones available from one carrier. Instead, you can buy any phone directly from the manufacturer.
- Ease of travel: Almost half of all older adults ages 50 and over travel internationally.1 Unlocked phones make it easy to set up service in another country because you can just purchase a SIM card from one of the local carriers at your destination. With locked phones, you’ll typically have to pay for a costly international plan from your carrier, which adds up quickly.
- No contracts: Since you purchased the unlocked phone outright, it’s yours to keep. There are no long-term contracts that tie you to a carrier.
Cons About Unlocked Phones
- Higher upfront costs: As mentioned, carriers typically offer locked phones at discounted rates or affordable monthly payment plans when you sign a long-term commitment. It isn’t the case with unlocked phones. However, some manufacturers, like Apple and Samsung, offer financing options for unlocked phones, so you don’t have to pay off the phone all at once.
- Fewer options for warranties: Carriers will often provide warranties, repairs, and support for the locked phones they sell, but not for unlocked phones that you bring to their network. If you’re on your own, you’re having network issues or other technical difficulties.
- Service isn’t guaranteed from all carriers: While an unlocked phone can work on most carriers’ networks, not all carriers will support your unlocked phone. Depending on the phone you choose, you might find that the carrier’s technology or policies don’t support it.
Important Tip: Before purchasing an unlocked phone, ask for the 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. Your carrier can then use the phone’s IMEI to see if it can be supported by their network.
Who Is an Unlocked Cell Phone Best For?
Traditional cell phone plans can be restrictive for some senior lifestyles. For many older adults, unlocked phones provide the freedom to use their phones on any network. Unlocked cell phones are best for:
- Those who travel abroad frequently
- Snowbirds who head to warmer climates for a portion of the year
- Seniors who find traditional contract plans cost-prohibitive
- Anyone who doesn’t like the commitment of a contract with a carrier
Frequently Asked Questions About Unlocked Phones
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Does an unlocked cell phone save money?
You can save money by choosing from a larger pool of carriers and plans. However, cost savings aren’t guaranteed. The phone’s upfront cost is often higher. Accidental damage can cost more money in repairs and replacements without carrier-provided insurance.
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I already purchased a device on this list from another carrier; can I have it unlocked?
The terms of your agreement with the carrier may require that the phone stays locked on their service for a set time. For example, T-Mobile and AT&T plans typically require 60 days of continuous service or a minimum purchase of minutes. Once this obligation is fulfilled, most carriers will unlock the device.
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Can I get insurance on my unlocked phone?
To get carrier-provided insurance, you will likely have to buy the phone from an authorized dealer. However, there are plenty of third-party accidental damage and theft insurance options. Just be careful to do your homework on the company before signing up.
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If I get an unlocked phone, do I have to sign a contract with a carrier?
Contract requirements vary by network and plan. Some carriers will allow you to sign up with your unlocked phone. Others, like AT&T, offer attractive deals to pay for prepaid service in set increments of three, six, or 12 months at a time. And if you are interested in a senior discount, the provider may require a one-year or two-year commitment.
AARP. (2015). Travel Research.