Planning a trip can be stressful, but if you’re in the military, you have access to exclusive travel discounts that can make your journey more affordable. Whether you’re looking to book flights, hotels, or rental cars, many companies offer special rates and deals to show appreciation for your service.
Imagine saving hundreds of dollars on your next vacation or business trip just by taking advantage of these military travel discounts. Not only do these offers help you stretch your budget, but they also allow you to enjoy your time off without financial stress. Ready to unlock these savings? Let’s dive into the best military travel discounts available to you.
Understanding Military Travel Discounts
What Are Military Travel Discounts?
Military travel discounts are special offers available to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. These discounts typically apply to flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. Offered by airlines, hotel chains, car rental companies, and travel agencies, these discounts acknowledge the service and sacrifices of military personnel.
How Do They Work?
To access military travel discounts, you’ll need to verify your military status. Companies often use services like ID.me or SheerID to authenticate your eligibility. Once verified, you can book discounted flights, accommodations, and car rentals directly through participating providers’ websites or customer service lines. Always compare offers and read the terms to ensure you get the best deal possible.
Types of Military Travel Discounts
Airfare Discounts
Many airlines offer exclusive airfare discounts for military personnel. These discounts often include reduced ticket prices, waived baggage fees, and priority boarding. For example, American Airlines provides up to 10% off flights for active-duty members, while Delta offers additional free checked bags. Utilizing these discounts requires verification of military status through services like ID.me or SheerID.
Hotel and Accommodation Discounts
Hotel chains and accommodation providers also extend special rates to those in the military. Discounts range from percentage reductions to complimentary upgrades. For instance, Hilton Hotels often offer a “Military Family Rate,” providing up to 15% off standard room rates, while Marriott offers special rates and package deals for military families. It’s important to verify your military status either online or at check-in to take advantage of these offers.
Car Rental and Transportation Discounts
Car rental companies provide significant discounts for military personnel. Brands like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis offer reduced rates and additional benefits such as free upgrades or extra mileage allowances. For example, Hertz offers up to 25% off rental rates for active-duty and retired military members. Verification of military status may be required upon booking or at the rental pick-up location. These discounts extend to other transportation services, including trains and buses, which offer similar benefits.
How to Access Military Travel Discounts
Required Documentation
Accessing military travel discounts requires specific documentation. Most travel providers request a military ID or proof of service. Active-duty members need to present a valid Common Access Card (CAC). Veterans can use a Veteran ID Card (VIC), VA Health Identification Card, or a DD Form 214. Dependents usually need a Dependent ID Card or proof of relationship to the service member, such as a marriage certificate or dependent card.
Tips for Verifying Military Status
To verify military status, use online verification services like ID.me and SheerID. These platforms simplify the verification process by authenticating your military credentials electronically. Complete the registration on these services, connect your military credentials, and wait for confirmation. Once verified, access discounts directly through the provider’s website by logging in with your verified account. Always check the provider’s specific requirements, as each may have different verification processes or documentation needs.
Top Providers of Military Travel Discounts
Major Airlines
Several major airlines offer military travel discounts. American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines provide exclusive fares for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. These discounts often include waived baggage fees, priority boarding, and special offers on flights.
American Airlines offers discounts through their Military and Government Rates portal, available to active-duty members and veterans. Delta Airlines provides reduced fares and additional baggage allowances via their Delta Military Discounts program. United Airlines extends military fares and extra baggage allowances, which can be accessed by contacting their reservations team directly.
Hotel Chains
Many hotel chains provide military discounts for lodging. Brands like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG extend special rates to military members. These offers can include discounted room rates, complimentary breakfast, or upgraded rooms.
Hilton honors military personnel with up to 10% off at select properties, available through their Military Family Rate program. Marriott offers military discounts across its brands, which guests can avail by selecting the Government/Military Rate when booking. IHG rewards military members with their IHG Military Discount program, accessible online or through their customer service.
Car Rental Companies
Car rental companies also cater to military members with special discounts. Companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise offer reduced rental rates and added benefits for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families.
Hertz provides military discounts through their Hertz Government & Military program, available by booking online or at participating locations. Avis offers exclusive savings under their Veterans Advantage Program, extending benefits to veterans and military families. Enterprise partners with the USAA to offer specials, including reduced rates, to members and their families.
Conclusion
Military travel discounts offer significant savings and exclusive benefits for service members and their families. By verifying your military status through services like ID.me or SheerID, you can easily access these discounts on flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. Always check the specific requirements for each provider to ensure you have the necessary documentation. Major airlines, hotel chains, and car rental companies provide various perks that make your travel experience more affordable and enjoyable. Take advantage of these opportunities to maximize your travel budget and enjoy well-deserved benefits.