Military Discounts and Travel Perks
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Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. If you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or part of a military family, it’s also a great opportunity to take advantage of travel discounts and perks available exclusively for military personnel. From hotels to airlines, theme parks to cruises, there are countless ways to save on your next adventure. In this guide, we’ll share the best military discounts travel and tips to make your next trip memorable and affordable.
Why Military Discounts Make Travel More Accessible
Traveling can be expensive, but many companies recognize the sacrifices made by service members and offer military-specific discounts. These deals can save hundreds of dollars on hotels, flights, attractions, and vacation packages. Veterans Day is often a peak time for special offers, but most military discounts are available year-round, making it easier than ever to plan a vacation without breaking the bank.
One of the best year round discounts for active duty military personnel is a benefit of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). This waives all credit card annual fees meaning service members and their spouses can get premium cards and their high value points and benefits for free.
Hotels and Resorts
If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay, several national hotel chains and resorts provide exclusive military rates. Booking directly through the hotel’s official website or contacting their reservations department is recommended to ensure you receive the military discount.
1. Marriott Hotels
Marriott offers a 10% discount for active-duty military and veterans at most of its U.S. properties. Some resorts even extend the discount to family members. Booking through Marriott’s dedicated military portal or using ID verification tools like ID.me is recommended.
2. Hilton Hotels
Hilton honors military personnel with 10% off standard room rates. This includes all Hilton brands, from Embassy Suites to Waldorf Astoria. Military members should book directly on Hilton’s website using their military status to unlock discounts.
3. IHG Hotels (InterContinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza)
IHG offers 10% off room rates for military members, plus some hotels provide complimentary upgrades or breakfast perks.
4. Veteran-Owned Hotels and Resorts
In addition to chain hotels, many veteran-owned properties offer special rates for fellow service members. These accommodations often provide a unique, personal experience and a way to support veteran entrepreneurs.
Tip: Always carry your military ID when checking in. Some hotels require it at the time of booking to apply the discount.
Armed Forces Vacation Club (AFVC):
- Free Membership, Offers discounted vacation rentals, including resort stays, to military members and their families.
- Optional upgrades are available for additional benefits. AFV Club
American Forces Travel:
- Provides exclusive travel deals on hotels, flights, and vacation packages for military personnel.
5. Shades of Green Resort
A government-owned resort located at Walt Disney World, offering affordable accommodations to military families.
6. Vail Resorts
Offers a $185 Military Epic Pass for the 2025/2026 ski season, granting access to numerous resorts across the U.S. Discounted passes are also available for veterans and their families. MOAA
Airlines
Air travel is one of the biggest expenses when planning a trip, but military fares and perks can significantly reduce costs.
1. Delta Air Lines
Delta offers discounted fares for active-duty military and their families. These fares often include free checked bags and flexible change policies. Booking through Delta’s military portal is required to access the rates.
2. United Airlines
United provides special military fares and upgrades. Military members can also take advantage of free seat upgrades and extra baggage allowances. Make sure to book early, as military fares can sell out quickly. Complimentary lounge access is available for active-duty military members on leave or rest and recuperation (R&R) with appropriate documentation. For other military personnel, discounted access is offered.
3. American Airlines
American Airlines offers discounted fares for active-duty military, including family members traveling together. They also provide flexibility in changing or canceling flights without penalty—a valuable perk for unpredictable schedules. Active-duty military members and their families can access Admirals Club lounges with a valid military ID and same-day boarding pass.
4. Southwest Airlines
Southwest offers special fares for active-duty military, which include two free checked bags. Their no-change-fee policy makes it easy to adjust travel plans as needed.
- Bags Fly Free®: Active-duty military members are exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and are not subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided none of the pieces exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size.
5. Alaska Airlines
Offers free lounge access to active-duty military personnel with proper identification.
6. USO Lounges
Located in numerous airports, USO lounges provide free snacks, drinks, and a comfortable place to relax. Access is available to active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and their dependents with valid military ID.
7. Priority Pass:
U.S. military personnel can access over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the Priority Pass program
8. TSA PreCheck Benefits:
- Free Enrollment: Available to active-duty service members and Department of Defense civilians.
- $25 Discount: Offered to military spouses.
- Free Enrollment: For Gold Star families.
- Dedicated Security Lanes: Implemented at select airports near major military bases. Kiplinger
9. Space-Available (Space-A) Flights
Allows service members and their families to travel on military aircraft with available seats, often at minimal cost. Availability and eligibility vary by terminal.
Tip: Military fares are often non-public, so always book through the airline’s military travel portal or over the phone with a military travel representative.
Theme Parks and Attractions
For family-friendly adventures, many theme parks and attractions offer exclusive military pricing.
1. Disney Parks
Disney provides discounted tickets for active-duty military and their families, valid at both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California. These tickets often include multi-day passes at a lower price and occasionally include resort discounts. Military passes can be purchased through MWR or shades of green. Military rates are also available for hotel and vacation packages. These discounts can be accessed through Disney planners as well at no cost to you.
2. Universal Studios
Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood both offer military rates for park tickets, hotels and vacation packages. Booking through Universal’s dedicated military website ensures you access the lowest rates. Military passes can be purchased through MWR or shades of green.
3. Six Flags
Regional amusement parks like Six Flags offer military discounts on single-day tickets and season passes. Many parks honor ID.me verification to make the process seamless.
4. Free Admission to Busch Gardens & SeaWorld Parks
Through the Waves of Honor program, active-duty military members, activated or drilling reservists, and National Guardsmen are eligible for:
- One complimentary admission per year to either Busch Gardens, SeaWorld, or Sesame Place for the service member and up to three direct dependents.
- Up to six discounted tickets for family and friends at 50% off standard admission rates.
To claim these offers, service members must verify their eligibility through ID.me and obtain tickets online. Note that these complimentary admissions are valid for one park and one visit only. However if you only need one or two tickets the remaining free tickets are available to use at the other parks annually. For example my husband and I used two tickets for Bush Gardens and the other two tickets for Seaworld all in one trip. Discovery cove is also included in this program but it is only discounted not free.
5. Dollywood
Provides a 30% discount on one-day theme park tickets for active-duty, retired, disabled veterans, reservists, and dependents. Military Families
International Theme Parks & Attractions
- Disneyland Paris: Offers discounted tickets to U.S. military personnel through their website only.
Cruises
If you’re looking for an extended getaway, many cruise lines and vacation package providers offer military-specific deals.
1. Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line offers exclusive military rates for active-duty personnel. These rates often include perks like onboard credits or complimentary excursions.
2. Royal Caribbean and Carnival
Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival provide discounted fares for military members, sometimes with additional benefits such as free stateroom upgrades or onboard spending credits.
3. Princess Cruises
Offers up to $250 in onboard spending money, depending on the length of the stay, for military personnel. The benefit must be applied no later than 14 days from the departure date. Military Families
4. Heroes Sail Free Program Overview
Margaritaville at Sea’s “Heroes Sail Free” program allows eligible individuals to sail for free on select 2- to 7-night cruises to the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Mexico. The offer includes a free cruise fare for the first and second guests in the same cabin, with the third and fourth guests sailing at prevailing retail rates. This program is available year-round on both the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise and the Margaritaville at Sea Islander ships.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the “Heroes Sail Free” program, individuals must be verified through GOVX and belong to one of the following categories:
- Active-duty military personnel
- Veterans
- First responders (police, fire, EMS)
- Educators
- Healthcare workers
- Government employees
Verification is required to access the free cruise fares and other benefits.
Booking Process
- Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the Margaritaville at Sea Offers Page.
- Verify Eligibility: Use the GOVX verification process to confirm your status.
- Select a Sailing: Choose from available sailings that offer the “Heroes Sail Free” promotion.
- Book Your Cruise: Complete the booking process, ensuring to select the appropriate stateroom and confirm the free fare for the first and second guests.
Availability and Restrictions
- Stateroom Type: The free fare applies to interior staterooms only.
- Cabin Limit: The offer is limited to one cabin per reservation.
- Single Travelers: Single travelers are not eligible; a second guest must be booked in the same cabin.
- Taxes and Fees: Guests are responsible for taxes, fees, and port expenses, which are additional per guest based on the itinerary sailed and must be paid at the time of booking.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the free cruise fare, eligible guests can enjoy:
- 20% Discount: An extra 20% off all retail offers, ensuring the best prices year-round.
- Express Passes: Priority boarding and other exclusive onboard benefits.
- Unlimited Usage: The program allows for unlimited usage throughout the year on all available sailings.
Destinations and Itineraries
The “Heroes Sail Free” program covers a variety of destinations, including:
- Bahamas: Nassau and Freeport
- Caribbean: Ports in the Dominican Republic and other Caribbean islands
- Mexico: Ports such as Cozumel
- Key West, Florida: Available on select sailings from Port Tampa Bay
Sailings range from 2 to 7 nights, offering flexibility to suit different schedules.
Contact Information
For more information or assistance with booking, you can contact Margaritaville at Sea directly:
- Phone: 800.814.7100
- Website: www.margaritavilleatsea.com
Complimentary 4-Night Stay at Atlantis
Through the Caesars Rewards Salute Card, military members can enjoy a complimentary 4-night stay at The Coral Tower at Atlantis Paradise Island. This offer is available during specific months: January, May, September, and October. While the room rate is waived, taxes and resort fees still apply. For instance, a 4-night stay in May would typically cost around $1,400, but with this benefit, the cost could be reduced to approximately $200, depending on the number of guests and applicable fees. learnmilitarybenefits.com
How to Redeem:
- Obtain the Caesars Rewards Salute Card: Visit one of nearly 40 Caesars Rewards locations in the U.S. and present your military ID or veteran’s card. Caesars
- Book Your Stay: Contact Atlantis Casino VIP Services at 888-877-7592 to make your reservation. Be sure to mention your Caesars Rewards Platinum status to access this exclusive offer. militarybridge.com
Year-Round Military Discounts
Atlantis also offers up to 25% off the best available rates for military members, including active-duty personnel, veterans, and their immediate families. This discount is available through ID.me verification and is applicable to new reservations at The Coral, The Royal, The Cove, and The Reef with a minimum 2-night stay. Please note that this offer is subject to nightly room taxes, resort fees, and housekeeping gratuities. ID.me
Additional Military Perks
- Resort Credit: Atlantis has been known to offer up to $450 in resort credits for military guests, which can be used toward dining, spa services, and other resort amenities. Facebook
- Children’s Dining: Children under 11 may eat free at select dining venues when accompanied by a paying adult. This benefit can significantly reduce the overall cost of your stay. Facebook
Important Notes:
- Blackout Dates: The complimentary 4-night stay offer has specific blackout dates. It’s essential to check availability during your desired travel months.
- Additional Fees: While the room rate may be waived, taxes, resort fees, and gratuities are still applicable and vary depending on the number of guests and the chosen accommodation.
- Booking Process: Reservations for the complimentary stay must be made through Atlantis Casino VIP Services. Ensure you mention your Caesars Rewards Platinum status to access this exclusive offer.
Transportation
1. Avis
Offers discounted rates for military personnel. It’s advisable to check with local branches for specific discounts.
2. Budget
Provides special rates for military members. Availability and discounts may vary by location.
3. Greyhound Bus
Offers a 10% military discount year-round through the WeSalute+ program, which also provides benefits for immediate family members. Condé Nast Traveler
Travel Planning
1. Military OneSource Information, Tickets, and Travel (ITT) Program
Offers exclusive travel discounts, such as reduced airfare, hotel accommodations, and rental cars, as well as discounts on vacation packages and tickets to local attractions. Military OneSource
2. GOVX
Provides exclusive travel discounts for military and first responders on hotels, rental cars, cruises, tours, and more. GOVX
3. Vacation Package Companies
Travel agencies and package providers like Military Travel Services or AAA often curate military-friendly vacation packages, including all-inclusive resorts and guided tours.
Tip: Cruise and vacation packages may require early booking to secure military rates, particularly during holiday weekends or summer travel.
Tips to Maximize Military Travel Discounts
Even with available discounts, there are ways to save more and make your trip smoother:
- Verify Eligibility Early: Many discounts require proof of military service via a military ID or verification platforms like ID.me. Have your documentation ready before booking.
- Combine Discounts with Loyalty Programs: Use your hotel or airline loyalty points alongside military discounts for extra savings.
- Plan Ahead for Peak Travel Times: Veterans Day weekend and summer are popular travel periods. Booking early ensures you can take full advantage of discounts.
- Check Online Portals: Websites like GovX, Military.com, or ID.me list travel deals and seasonal promotions for veterans and active-duty military members.
- Ask About Family Discounts: Many offers extend to spouses and dependents, which can make family vacations more affordable.
Final Thoughts
Veterans Day is more than a holiday—it’s a reminder to honor those who’ve served. Taking advantage of military travel discounts and perks is a meaningful way to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation, whether that’s a weekend getaway, a family trip, or an epic vacation.
From hotels to flights, theme parks to cruises, there are countless ways to save and create lasting memories. By planning ahead and using the resources listed above, you can make your next adventure both memorable and budget-friendly.
Celebrate your service this Veterans Day with a trip that’s as rewarding as it is affordable!
