military travel for veterans

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American Forces Travel Privileges Extended to Eligible Veterans

The Department of Defense announced today a policy change to the current shopping privileges on the American Forces Travel website. As directed by acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Virginia S. Penrod in a memo signed April 12, 2021, the department will extend online access to the website to honorably discharged veterans of the uniformed services.

On average, customers save 35-40% compared to commercial travel pricing by using AFT. This includes discounted rates on hotels (up to 60%), airfare, rental cars, vacation packages, event tickets, and cruises.

“Sixteen million veterans will now be able to access the American Forces Travel website, joining the 10 million active duty, Guard and reserve service members, family members, DOD civilians, and other patrons who are already receiving the benefit,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy Patricia “Patty” Montes Barron. “We are committed to providing quality-of-life programs to our military community, which includes our honorably discharged veterans.”

The change will not affect access for existing patrons, and the increased customer base will allow AFT to negotiate better prices for its customers. 

AFT launched in 2019 as the only official joint service morale, welfare, and recreation leisure travel website exclusively for DOD patrons. In addition to improving access to DOD’s MWR benefits, every booking on American Forces Travel generates revenue to support critical quality-of-life programs for service members and families.

To access the exclusive military discount pricing on travel products, visit the American Forces Travel website . Proof of eligibility is required.

About Military Community and Family Policy

Military Community and Family Policy is directly responsible for establishing and overseeing quality-of-life policies and programs that help our service members, their families and survivors be well and mission-ready. Military OneSource is the gateway to programs and services that support the everyday needs of the 5.2 million service members and immediate family members of the military community. These DOD services can be accessed 24/7/365 around the world.

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• Armed Forces Travel

American Forces Travel

American Forces Travel℠     is the only official joint services MWR leisure travel website.

American Forces Travel is a joint service initiative combining the efforts of each of the five branches of service (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard) and the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community & Family Policy. Who is Eligible:  Active military, Guard or Reserve, U.S. Coast Guard, Retired Military, and all eligible MWR patrons.

VIew DEALS  

What is American Forces Travel?

American Forces Travel (AFT) is a new site launched with Priceline that offers discounted travel prices to military service members and their dependents. Despite there being many unofficial sites that boast discounted travel prices for military, AFT is the ONLY official joint service owned leisure travel service for the military community.

Priceline.com a company with over 20 years of online travel expertise, won out the opportunity to sponsor AFT over other travel discount sites in a competitive bidding process AFT was launched as an initiative by five military branches of service and the Office of the Secretary of Defense to provide a modernized, streamlined method for booking travel and vacation packages for the military community.  Previously, most non-official travel for military had been orchestrated through base tickets and tour offices; AFT provides a platform where military members can search for special travel deals online.

What Sets American Forces Travel Apart From Other Discount Sites?

• AFT boasts up to 60% savings on more than a million hotel deals in more than 76,000 destinations worldwide.
• AFT offers reduced fees for reservation changes and all flights cancellable within 24 hours.  With AFT, there is also free cancellation on post-paid cars as well as cancellation discounts for pre-paid rates.
• AFT offers 24/7 customer support.
• There is a commission that goes towards military Morale, Welfare, and Recreation services and military quality of life programs with each transaction on the AFT site.
• Although Priceline.com offers similar discounts and deals for the general public, Priceline has a special team dedicated to the AFT site to search for the best prices specifically for military members.
• Priceline offers the same lowest price guarantee on AFT as it does on its main site.  If a better price or deal is found for any travel arrangements within 24 hours of booking, Priceline will refund 100% of the price difference.

Who is Eligible to Use American Forces Travel?

• Active duty and dependents
• Full-benefit retirees and dependents
• 100% disabled veterans and dependents
• Medal of Honor recipients and dependents
• American Red Cross and USA-paid personnel serving outside of the US and dependents
• DOD civilians and non-appropriated fund employees

How Do I Sign Up To Use American Forces Travel?

- Visit the American Forces Travel site .

- Select the “Get Started” link from the main page.

- You will be prompted to verify your military status by providing your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your social security number.

- This information does not go through Priceline but is verified against a DOD database.

- Login information is not captured or retained in any way.

What Types of Discounts Does American Forces Travel Offer?

• Travel packages

AFT hopes to also offer discounts on theme parks and other attractions at a future date

Does American Forces Travel Really Deliver Discounts to the Military Community?

A review done by Military.com of the American Forces Travel site uncovered that on travel to San Diego, hotel deals ranging $20-$50 dollars less than prices found on regular travel discount sites and $10-$18 off per day for vehicle rentals.  According to the same review, a round-trip Alaska Airlines flight from Washington, D.C. to San Diego for one February weekend was $354, while on American Forces Travel the same round-trip flight was only $323.  However, non-stop flights for the same weekend could be purchased on United Airlines for $200-$400 less on a travel discount site other than AFT.

Discounts on hotels seems to vary by season and by room type. For example, a cursory search on AFT for hotels in Seattle, WA during the month of August showed variance in discounted prices when compared to prices on other discount travel sites, ranging from prices on AFT being $10-$20 higher than to $10-$30 lower than on other travel sites. It did seem that there were better discounts on searches for double occupancy rooms than on searches for rooms for more than two people, which could signify that when looking for hotels, AFT offers better discounts for groups travelling with less people as opposed to families with children or larger groups.

Discounts on automobile rentals also vary by auto type and rental by day or by week. Cruise prices also appear to vary based on season or berthing type.

In short, there is probably still no substitute for doing the research when one is looking for good deals on travel. AFT probably does offer significant discounts for military members but not necessarily on every travel item nor in every circumstance, so it is still important to search for deals and discounts using various resources. 

It’s important to consider, too, that AFT launched only within the past few months and still has plans to expand its scope and improve its services. It would be well worth providing further analysis after the site has been up and running for a year or two. 

At the very least American Forces Travel puts another discount travel booking tool in the back pockets of military members and their dependents and can be considered a legitimate means to secure the best price for all leisure travel needs.

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Military & Veterans Travel Guide – Ideas, Discounts & Resources [2024]

James Larounis

Senior Content Contributor

557 Published Articles 1 Edited Article

Countries Visited: 30 U.S. States Visited: 35

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

36 Published Articles 3282 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Travel organizations for military service members & veterans, travel deal websites for military service members & veterans, airline discounts & allowances for military service members and veterans, accessing airport lounges while flying as a military service member or veteran, booking a hotel, resort, or casino as a military service member or veteran, booking a rental car as a military service member or veteran, booking a cruise as a military service member or veteran, buying theme park tickets as a military service member or veteran, mobile apps for military service member or veteran discounts, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Many people view the military community almost as an extended family. If you’re part of that special club in any capacity, you’ll often feel the gratitude and appreciation being directed your way by everyday members of the public, as well as a host of business owners who can offer you more than just their thanks for serving your country.

Over 8 million consumers are part of that community when you count active duty, retired personnel, reservists, and military employees. Adding in the immediate families of past and present military personnel, you soon appreciate that this a big group of people who businesses would like to recognize and keep happy.

Many travel and leisure providers (and credit card issuers) offer discounts to service members and veterans as their own gesture of appreciation for the time these people have served. However, it can often be difficult to instantly locate military and veterans discounts on general travel websites or know where to get the best possible travel deal.

This guide aims to provide resources that military personnel and veterans can use to find travel discounts. There is a wide range of continuing and promotional discounts and incentives available, and these can often be found via resources like travel clubs, booking websites, attraction websites, and airline, hotel, and cruise websites.

Here is a comprehensive guide to getting recognition for your military service in the form of discounts, special offers, and incentives.

There are a number of organizations and programs that military service members and veterans can join to get special access to travel benefits and other advantages. These programs are often free for those who are eligible, and applications can be submitted online. Here are several organizations to choose from:

• Armed Forces Vacation Club (AFVC) — The AFVC is a membership organization for active duty, guard, reserve, and retired military employees. It offers weeklong resort vacations at thousands of resorts in over 100 countries starting at very low prices, including last-minute vacation deals, “space available” deals, and short-stay deals. Members can also buy travel certificates to be redeemed at affiliated resorts. For travelers in need of inspiration, the AFVC features a Vacation Planning Resource Center full of vacation ideas and travel tips.
• In Honor of our Troops Foundation (IHOOT)  — This organization originally started by offering veterans 1 free vacation per year. They have also added another program — the IHOOT Acquisition Program — that offers discounted accommodation rates to members all year round. You can apply for free vacations that are aimed at offering rest, recuperation, and healing to help military families reconnect with each other. There are 100 locations, including accommodations in places like Hawaii, California, and Mexico. Although the stay is free, airfare is not included. It is also suggested you apply at least 6 weeks before your intended vacation date.
• The Military Wallet — Sign up for a free newsletter to stay up to date with some of the latest deals and incentives available to veterans and check out the Travel Discounts page to get information on tickets and other travel options at reduced costs.
• Operation We Are Here   — This website has a variety of air travel assistance links for the military community.
• SMART RVing — This site aims to source the most competitive RV rental and accommodation prices available for military veterans, and there are regular rallies throughout the country that you might want to attend.
• United Services Automobile Association (USAA) Travel Deals  — USAA offers insurance, banking, investment, and retirement services to both active and former military service members and their families. In addition to the free financial resources that USAA members receive, veterans can also check out the special travel deals. On the organization’s  Travel Deals  page, visitors can explore  car rental services  as well as deals on flights, hotels, cruises, and travel insurance that can only be accessed by registering online as a member.
• Vacation for Warriors — Specifically aimed at providing free vacations for soldiers who are injured during combat, Vacations for Warriors is a non-profit that was set up in 2014. These vacations are made possible with the help of commercial organizations like American Airlines, which donated 1 million AAdvantage miles, along with other transferable hotel points and timeshare options.

Hot Tip: Aside from travel bookings, some of these websites can even provide discounts on car buying, home repairs, loans, and more!

Many travel discounts are available to military service members and veterans even if they do not belong to an organization. The following websites offer military travel deals online:

• American Forces Travel — This Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program is for active military, Guard or Reserve, U.S. Coast Guard, retired military, and all eligible MWR patrons. Hotel, flight, and rental car deals are supported by Priceline , cruise and vacation packages are on offer, and event tickets are bookable through TicketNetwork.
• CheapTickets — By visiting the CheapTickets military page, active-duty service members, those on reserve, National Guard members, and veterans can sign up to verify their military or veterans status to get discounts of up to 18% off.
• Hotwire — Active, retired, and veterans of the U.S. military, and their spouses and minor children get $10 off Hot Rate hotel bookings
• ID.me Shop — See specific military rates for a variety of travel categories, including hotels, flights, cruises, car rentals, theme parks, tours, and more.
• Military.com — Military.com is a website dedicated to providing military service members, veterans, and families with community support and information on the benefits they might have access to. Visitors can find advice on military travel, getting military deals, and military lodging options. The website also gives travel advice and has a large section of travel discounts.
• Military Fares  — Military Fares is a website that allows users to search a variety of airlines, hotels, and car rental for military rates. The platform is a Priceline Partner Network that provides an extensive offering of flights. Recent military deals that users have purchased are displayed so visitors can get an idea of what rates might be on offer when they’re searching.
• Travelation — This search page dedicated to military travel deals makes it easy to book flights with military and veteran discounts. There is also a military promotional code for additional savings.
• Veterans Advantage — Enroll with Veterans Advantage and get access to a number of travel discounts, special offers, and medical/insurance services that are included as part of the membership package. Qualification includes anyone who served in the military and immediate family members. There is an annual membership plan available for $4.99 per month, but if you take advantage of the various offers and discounts, the savings should be far greater than this fee. Plus, the $55,000 insurance coverage that comes as part of the deal is worth having.

Keep in mind that sometimes when you book through a site that offers discounts to military and veterans, you might not receive miles or points for your flight or stay or on-site benefits that may come with elite status.

Hot Tip: The TSA provides expedited security screening for all members of the U.S. Armed Forces and offers assistance with the screening process for veterans and wounded warriors. Check out our guide to TSA military benefits  for more details.

Most major airlines offer discounts like reduced flight costs, but you might also be offered a free checked bag or other incentives. If you are booking direct, many airlines don’t often advertise military rates on their website, so you might have to call to ask if a discount is available.

Here are some airlines that offer discounts or benefits to active-duty service members or veterans :

• Air Canada —Eligible active and retired members of the Canadian and U.S. military are able to check up to 3 bags.
• Alaska Airlines — Receive 5% off through the Veterans Advantage program. Those on orders receive 5 complimentary checked bags, as well as free Alaska Board Room access. Other benefits include priority boarding for those in uniform and a 15% discount on food purchased inflight with an active ID.
• Allegiant Airlines — Receive up to 5 free checked bags, free boarding pass printing, and free advanced seat selection.
• American Airline s   — Active-duty military on orders receive 5 free checked bags, or 3 checked bags on all other itineraries. Uniformed service members also receive Group 1 boarding on all flights.
• Delta Air Lines — Active-duty service members are allowed up to 5 free checked bags.
• Frontier Airlines — Baggage fees are waived if you are on active duty.
• Hawaiian Airlines — Receive up to 5 free checked bags for military on active orders, or 2 checked bags for those on leisure travel, and 5% off airfares with the Veterans Advantage program.
• JetBlue — Receive up to a 5% discount with the Veterans Advantage program or by booking directly through JetBlue for service members on active orders. Up to 5 checked bags are free when flying on orders.
• Southwest Airlines — Special rates are available at 800-1-FLY-SWA (not online).
• Spirit Airlines — Active-duty military are allowed 2 free checked bags and a free carry-on, in addition to the already free personal item.
• United Airlines — A discount of up to 5% off of tickets is offered via the Veterans Advantage program.

Bottom Line: You may have to call the airline you’re booking with directly to inquire about military fares and special benefits, as many times these rates aren’t published publicly online. You may also want to compare the rates offered against the best websites for booking flights at the cheapest prices .

Before or after your flight, having access to an airline lounge is a great place to relax, use the restroom, or grab a quick bite to eat.

These are the opportunities for military or veteran access to airport lounges:

• American Airlines Admirals Club — If you’re in uniform and flying American, you and your immediate family can enter the lounge without any cost.
• United Club — If you’re flying United and are in uniform or have active military orders, you can access the lounge.
• USO Lounges — There are approximately 300 locations both in and out of airports that active duty, guard, reserve military and their dependents, and retired military can access with a valid ID.

Many airports also offer military-specific lounges, like the Freedom Center at Detroit (DTW) and Military Hospitality Lounge at Miami (MIA) . Visit our extensive list of detailed U.S. airport guides to find out more about the lounges at the airports you plan to transit through.

Hot Tip: Active-duty military members are eligible to not be charged the annual fee of The Platinum Card ® from American Express. This premium travel rewards card comes with some amazing benefits for service members, including complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges such as The Amex Centurion Lounges ,  Delta Sky Club (when flying with Delta), Escape Lounges — The Centurion Studio Partner ,  The International American Express Centurion Lounges , s elect Virgin Clubhouses, select Lufthansa Lounges, and  Priority Pass Select membership. See our guide on the Amex Platinum military benefits that you can leverage as an active military member .

Military service members and veterans seeking some rest and relaxation should check out the websites below to take advantage of deals on hotel , resort, and casino bookings:

• Aqua Hotels and Resorts — Both short-stay and long-stay military discounts for these Hawaiian resorts are available.
• Beaches and Sandals — Military members get an additional 10% off on top of special promotions for these family-friendly all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.
• Best Western — Veterans, military, and government personnel are eligible for a discount at or below per diem and can also apply for the Best Western Service Rewards Program.
• Caesars Entertainment — Eligible military and veterans can save up to 35% on rooms.
• Choice Hotels  — Receive lifetime Gold elite status and a military discount on hotel stays.
• Hilton Hotels  — Depending on the hotel, you’ll receive a military or government discount.
• Hyatt Hotels  — Book with the military rate and receive a discount.
• IHG Hotels — Active-duty service members will receive a military and government discount.
• Marriott Hotels — A discounted military rate varies by property for active-duty service members.
• MGM Resorts — Veterans and military receive a specially-branded MGM Rewards card and a 10% discount at select hotels.
• Veterans Holidays — Part of the Wyndham Worldwide hospitality group, this site offers veterans resort stays at heavily discounted prices (some as low as $50 per night for a condo!). There are over 200,000 resort accommodation options to choose from worldwide and at least 100 different countries to visit. Veterans Holidays offers free membership to all veterans of the U.S military, and the travel discount scheme allows you to bring guests on vacation, too.
• Wyndham Hotels — Active and retired military members, veterans, and their spouses are welcomed with discounts, bonus points, and more, including Wyndham Rewards Gold membership.

Hot Tip: Make sure that you’re getting the best price on your next hotel stay — check out our guide to the best websites for booking hotels at the cheapest prices .

Military Lodging

It is worth mentioning that if you are trying to save on costs, you might be able to find military lodging near your chosen destination.

You can find accommodation if you plan your trip in advance and allow time to reserve a place at least 60 days in advance. Visit DOD Lodging to see what options are available. There are centralized reservation systems available to book accommodations with the U.S. Army (866-363-5771), the U.S. Navy (800-628-9466), or the U.S. Air Force (888-235-6343). If you want to stay at a U.S. Marine Corps or a Coast Guard lodge, you will have to search for the lodge closest to your destination and contact them directly.

Hot Tip: Check out our list of the best military credit cards for active-duty members  and veterans .

There are a number of car rental companies that provide discounts to military service members and veterans:

• Avis — A 25% discount on car rentals is provided for service members.
• Alamo — Military members receive a discount, including a damage waiver, and there are no additional driver or underage fees.
• Budget — U.S. military veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and Reservists, and their families receive up to 25% off with a Veterans Advantage membership.
• Dollar — A 5% discount is offered to Veterans Advantage members.
• Enterprise — Active-duty members and veterans are eligible for a discount.
• Hertz — Receive discounted rates, 1-class car upgrades, and membership in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program .
• Thrifty — A 5% discount is offered to Veterans Advantage members.
• National — Discounted rates are available after selecting your military branch of service.

Make sure to sign up for the rental car company’s loyalty program so you can take advantage of additional benefits during your rental period.

Even cruises offer discounts for military service members, veterans, and their families, and these deals can often be located online. Here are some resources from cruise booking websites as well as the cruise lines themselves:

• Carnival Cruises — Active and retired members are eligible for savings on cruises, depending on the departure.
• Celebrity Cruises — Active and retired military can save depending on the cabin they book, with higher savings for ocean view rooms.
• Disney Cruise Line — Savings on up to 1 stateroom per booking for active and retired service members.
• MSC Cruises — Enjoy up to 10% savings on cruise departures, plus no penalties if you get redeployed.
• Military Cruise Deals  — Veterans can find low rates on cruises, with special discounts obtained through their military status. The site also monitors all bookings and will offer lower rates if they become available — even after booking.
• Norwegian Cruise Line — You can save on Norwegian cruises using the Veterans Advantage program.
• Princess Cruises  — Veterans can check out what benefits they may be eligible for when booking a cruise, including free onboard spending money that can be used for spa treatments, specialty dining, shopping in boutiques, and shore excursions.
• Royal Caribbean — You’re able to save on cruise fares for everyone in your stateroom if you book the military rate and show ID upon check-in.

Hot Tip:  If you’ve booked your cruise and you’re wondering how to pack, check out our printable cruise packing list including lots of great tips and advice. 

Theme parks are fun for the whole family, and military service members and veterans with families are no exception. Military rates help families save on their fun-filled visits to theme parks. The Information, Tickets and Travel (ITT) office on local installations also offers savings on area attractions and special events, and can even help with hotel and cruise bookings.

Here are some resources to help veterans find military rates on theme parks:

• Busch Gardens and SeaWorld — Active and retired military save on tickets by credentialing through ID.com and then purchasing tickets through that portal.
• Cedar Point — Single-day admission tickets are offered at a discount off of the front gate price.
• Dollywood — U.S. active or retired military, veterans, and military reservists, spouses, and dependents with valid military personnel IDs are eligible for a 30% discount on 1-day admission tickets, and you can upgrade this ticket for a discounted military Season Pass.
• LEGOLAND — Active-duty military can receive free admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort & Water Park . Veterans, non-active military, and military families are eligible for discounts of 10% to 25%. At LEGOLAND California Resort , a discount of 25% to 50% is offered.
• Schlitterbahn New Braunfels — A special discount is offered through local installations or online.
• Undercover Tourist — This is a popular website for purchasing discount tickets to parks like Walt Disney World, Universal, or SeaWorld. Military discounts are not offered, but this is a great site to check to see if you’re getting the best deal!
• Universal Orlando Resort — Special pricing is available for active and retired members of the U.S. military. Members can also access special vacation packages that include hotel accommodations, theme park tickets, and early park admission.
• Universal Studios Hollywood — Active and retired U.S. military personnel are eligible for discounts through their participating military ticket office. An in-person discount of $3 off is offered at the gate with credentials.
• Walt Disney World — Active and retired members of the U.S. military are eligible for special deals but must contact their participating U.S. military base ticket office.

Hot Tip: Planning your next amusement park or water park vacation? Visit our helpful guides for inspiration!

If you want to be able to search for travel deals using your phone, it makes sense to have some apps installed that can help when you don’t want to browse the internet.

Apps you may want to download include:

• Ibotta ( iOS , Android )
• Military Discounts Free ( Android )
• Rakuten ( iOS , Android )
• RetailMeNot ( iOS , Android )
• ShopSavvy ( iOS ,  Android )

While some of these apps provide discounts to the general public, the savings may be more significant than using a military-specific program.

To those who serve or who have served, your time, talent, and dedication to protecting our nation hasn’t gone unnoticed. Many vendors, airlines, hotels, and cruises provide opportunities for you to save while you travel, or receive exclusive perks and services.

Booking through these programs can save a significant amount of money, and it’s always beneficial to search around to take advantage of the best deals.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best websites for booking military travel deals.

Our favorite resources for military travel deals are Military.com , Travelation ,  Expedia, and Veterans Advantage .

Do airlines offer military discounts?

Yes, many U.S. airlines offer military discounts or accommodations, including Delta , Frontier , JetBlue ,  Southwest , and United .

How do you get military discounts on flights?

In most circumstances, you will need to visit the individual airline’s website or call them to receive the discount, as there are procedures to verify your identity and eligibility. There are also some third-party providers that sell discounted flights or vacation packages for military members.

Do military spouses get priority boarding?

Most airlines offer some type of priority boarding for active-duty military for service members in uniform. What’s unclear is whether spouses can get priority boarding as well, though in most circumstances, airlines will be lenient and allow spouses to board with the active servicemember.

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About James Larounis

James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.

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Travel Discounts for Military Members and Veterans

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Discount Air Travel

Space-a travel, discounts on lodging and resorts, hotel discounts, base lodging, military resorts, military vacation clubs, other military travel discounts, rental cars, savings through travel websites, credit cards and rewards programs, finding the best military travel discounts takes time.

Several companies offer military discounts on air travel, lodging, resorts and more.

Even if you can’t score a military discount , you can still save money with travel promotions, credit card travel rewards , and more. Here’s what you need to know about military travel discounts.

Many U.S. airlines offer a military discount or incentive, such as checked bag fee waivers or seat upgrades.

However, these offers are not listed on travel websites. You must visit the airline’s website or call its customer service department to get a discount. Remember, airline discounts may only apply to active-duty, National Guard, or reserve service members and may only apply when traveling on orders.

Active duty military, veterans, and their families can also save on airline tickets through a partnership with WeSalute (founded as Veterans Advantage). Learn more about these programs below:

American Airlines offers military discounts of up to 10% for domestic and international airline tickets.

United Airlines offers military discounts of up to 5% for domestic and international airline tickets.

JetBlue Airlines offers military discounts of up to 5% plus two free bag waivers. JetBlue will also waive its $25 service fee for phone bookings.

Alaska Airlines offers military discounts of up to 5% for routes departing from the U.S. and Canada.

Hawaiian Airlines offers military discounts of up to 5% on Coach fares from the U.S. Mainland to the Hawaiian islands.

Lufthansa Airlines offers military discounts of up to 5% on transatlantic travel. Plus, take 5% off on Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Airlines, and Brussels Airlines.

Southwest Airlines offers everyday low fares for military servicemembers and veterans.

Space-available travel is excellent when it works: it’s a free seat on a military aircraft that’s headed to the same place you’re going (or close to it). However, Space-A seats are increasingly hard to come by.

You may have to wait a few days for a seat – if you get one at all. You should only travel Space-A if you’ve got a flexible schedule and a backup plan (which may include purchasing a last-minute airline ticket).

Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating, active-duty service members, National Guardsmen, reservists, retirees and dependents of these groups are eligible to travel Space-A.

Visit the AMC Travel Site or contact the nearest military passenger terminal to learn more about Space-A opportunities near you.

AMC’s Space-A Travel Handbook

Most hotel chains will offer military discounts , provided there isn’t a significant event on the calendar. For example, you may be hard-pressed to get a military discount at a hotel in New York City on New Year’s Eve.

Many hotel chains are also willing to cap their rates at the local per diem rate, which can amount to substantial savings, depending on the hotel chain and location. Rates capped at the per diem rate may require official orders, and almost always require active-duty, reserve or National Guard identification.

Veterans, Military and Government Personnel enjoy discounts at or below per diem at Best Western® Hotels & Resorts throughout North America.

Veterans, military, fire, emergency medical service personnel, doctors, nurses, 911 dispatchers, police and correctional officers save up to 25% at Great Wolf Lodge.

IHG® Hotels & Resorts is pleased to welcome active and veteran servicemen and women with hotel deals and discounts at participating hotels, including Holiday Inn, Hotel Indigo, Staybridge Suites, and more.

Hilton offers exclusive savings for active & retired military, veterans and their families on leisure stays at participating hotels.

As part of the Military 1st program, Radisson Hotels offers a special military discount and an upgrade to the best available room at the time of check-in.

Base lodging rates may be significantly cheaper than local hotel rates. You can find base lodging at large military bases. Military hotel chains like the Navy Gateway Inn and Suites may own some of these. DOD contracts civilian hotel chains for some others, including IHG Army Hotels .

The Armed Forces Recreation Centers offer exceptional discounts in popular vacation locations. Some popular resorts include:

• Hale Koa Resort (Hawaii)
• Shades of Green Military Resort (Disney World),
• Dragon Hill Lodge (Korea)
• Edelweiss Lodge and Resort (Germany)
• New Sanno Resort (Japan)

Status of Forces Agreements may impact your eligibility to stay at resorts in some overseas locations. Check the Armed Forces Recreation Center website to determine your eligibility.

Military vacation clubs like the Armed Forces Vacation Club and Veterans Holidays may also offer hotel discounts.

Contact the vacation club to determine your eligibility for military vacation club offers.

See More Military Discounts on Hotels

Many rental car services have negotiated rates with government agencies. You can rent a car at a great rate if you are traveling on official orders.

Some rental services offer similar deals for military members on leisure travel. They may also waive rental fees for drivers under age 25.

Hertz offers Government and Military discounted pricing of up to 10-25% off.

National Car Rental already offers discounted rates for U.S. Department of Defense travelers on official business with official orders, but now they are extending everyday discounts to all veterans and military family members.

When traveling on leisure or without official orders, Alamo offers discounted rates for federal government employees and military personnel, including veterans.

You can use discount travel service websites to compare airline, hotel and rental car prices. Some helpful websites include:

• Travelocity

You can simplify your travel by booking your airline ticket, hotel room and rental car at the same time. However, bundling isn’t always the least expensive option. Compare prices across a few services if you have time.

Some of these companies offer discount plans or rewards for frequent customers. For example, Hotels.com offers a free one-night hotel stay for every 10 nights you reserve through them.

Using a travel rewards program can help you earn points and benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, free flights, free hotel stays and other perks. You can earn even more points with a credit card rewards program.

Some of the more popular travel credit cards are a joint offering between a credit card company and a specific airline or hotel chain. These reward cards may come with a sign-up bonus equal to a free flight or several nights at a hotel. Other perks may include free checked bags for you and your party, priority boarding, flight discounts, merchandise and other benefits.

Check out these credit offers to learn more:

• Military credit cards
• Airline credit cards
• Travel rewards credit cards

With any credit card, read the fine print before you sign up for any deals, and pay your card in full each month to avoid any fees or interest.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

American Express offers one of the best money-saving perks to military servicemembers – it waives the annual fees for its credit cards , including on The Platinum Card® and the American Express® Gold Card.

With an annual fee of $695 and $250 respectively, it’s easy to see how this under-the-radar perk can be a huge money saver for American Express cardholders, especially if you’re a service member who wants to enjoy the lucrative luxury perks that accompany The Platinum Card® from American Express , or the everyday practicality of the American Express® Gold Card .

Now that you know you can get your American Express annual fee waived as an active service member or spouse of a service member, what are some American Express cards to check out?

Learn more about our favorite below:

In my experience, booking the best travel deals requires a little legwork and a lot of patience. Always check with your unit before booking travel if you are traveling on military orders. They may have access to special offers or other requirements.

If you are traveling alone, start by determining if your itinerary allows for some military-specific travel options, such as Space-A, Armed Forces Recreation Centers or base lodging. If you cannot work one or more of those into your itinerary, you can still save money with some of the deals and services listed above.

Safe travels!

The Military Wallet has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Military Wallet and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Some or all of the card offers that appear on The Military Wallet are from advertisers. Compensation may impact how and where card products appear, but does not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations. The Military Wallet does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

About Post Author

Ryan Guina is The Military Wallet’s founder. He is a writer, small business owner, and entrepreneur. He served over six years on active duty in the USAF and is a current member of the Tennessee Air National Guard.

Ryan started The Military Wallet in 2007 after separating from active duty military service and has been writing about financial, small business, and military benefits topics since then.

Featured In: Ryan’s writing has been featured in the following publications: Forbes, Military.com, US News & World Report, Yahoo Finance, Reserve & National Guard Magazine (print and online editions), Military Influencer Magazine, Cash Money Life, The Military Guide, USAA, Go Banking Rates, and many other publications.

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Antonio Arroyave says

April 12, 2024 at 6:58 am

Are there any military discounts for RV camping sites on Disney grounds?

Sharon Ryan says

April 7, 2024 at 12:38 pm

Love the content on your site. Can you help me find out if military and military spouses (Widow) can get discounted or free TSA PreCheck . Also, where would I find my deceased husband’s DoD ID number? Thank you.

Ryan Guina says

May 7, 2024 at 10:40 am

Hello Sharon I’m sorry for your loss. I am not aware of any discounts for TSA Precheck. We paid the regular price for my wife and it has been wonderful when traveling. I wish you the best!

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The best military travel discounts and perks for service members

Many airlines, hotels, theme parks and cruise lines pay year-round tribute to those who serve our country with various discounts and benefits. Sometimes these deals are available only to active-duty military personnel, and sometimes the perks extend to U.S. military veterans and their families as well.

Related: The best credit cards for active-duty military members: Get waived annual fees

No matter the form these travel benefits take, they all reflect the gratitude the travel industry feels toward those who have sacrificed so much to protect our country.

Here are the perks that military members can take advantage of on their travels.

Military hotel discounts

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy and its many brands have discounted federal, state and local government rates available to government and military personnel. To access the discounted rates, choose the " Government & Military " option from the "Special Rates" drop-down menu when searching for a stay. You'll get a list of all the Marriott Bonvoy properties in your chosen city that offer special rates and their eligibility requirements.

Federal and U.S. military employees are eligible for military rates and discounts at participating Hilton properties. When searching for rooms online, check the box labeled "Government/Military Rates" to see the applicable rates. Plus, there's a discount on leisure stays for active and retired military members and their families at participating hotels and resorts (though the rate is not valid for official government or military travel).

Best Western

Best Western properties across the U.S. offer discounted rates for veterans, military members and government personnel .

Plus, Best Western's Service Rewards Program — the hotel chain's award program tailored to members of the military and armed forces — unlocks even more member benefits, including an automatic upgrade to Gold status and bonus points on qualified stays.

Veterans, active-duty members and their immediate family members are eligible for a discount of 10%-15% off Hyatt's standard rate at participating hotels . To get the discount, use the offer code MILVET while booking.

Participating Wyndham properties offer discounts of up to 15% off their best available rate to active and retired military personnel, veterans and their families. Plus, qualifying military personnel and their spouses get automatic Gold-level status when they enroll in the Wyndham Rewards program and bonus Wyndham Rewards points for qualified stays.

B Hotels & Resorts

To honor military members, B Hotels & Resorts is offering an exclusive "B Saluted" discount of 15% off regular rates and two welcome drinks per stay to military members, veterans and their families. B Hotels & Resorts has locations in Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Marathon, Florida.

The hotel chain behind such brands as InterContinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Kimpton and others offers a " Military Leisure Rate " at participating locations across the U.S., Canada, and Central and South America. It applies to active-duty military personnel, veterans, retired military personnel and their families.

Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels — which includes brands such as Comfort, Sleep Inn and Quality Inn — extends a discounted rate for official and leisure travel to active-duty and retired military personnel, their dependents and members of several military associations. Plus, active-duty military members, veterans and military spouses are eligible to join the Choice Privileges rewards program at the Lifetime Gold Elite level and receive a bonus 2,500 Choice Privileges rewards points after your first qualifying stay.

Motel 6, along with its sister extended-stay brand Studio 6, offers active and retired military personnel and their families a discount of 10% off standard rates .

Active-duty military personnel and veterans — in addition to government employees — are eligible for a 10% discount on official travel at any U.S. Red Roof location. The hotel chain also has a 10% discount on leisure travel for all government employees and military members, veterans and retirees.

Military airline benefits

Southwest Airlines

There are special fares for military and government travelers , but you must call the airline to book them. Additionally, military members traveling on active duty (in or out of uniform) can board between the A and B groups and are exempt from the limit of two pieces of checked baggage.

American Airlines

American Airlines offers government or military fares in some markets , while veterans and their families can access reduced fares by enrolling in the VetRewards program .

Active-duty military personnel are also allowed Group 1 boarding privileges; they can bring up to five free checked bags when traveling on orders and up to three free checked bags for leisure travel (weight restrictions apply).

U.S. military personnel traveling in uniform on a same-day American flight can enter Admirals Club lounges with their immediate family — defined as a spouse, domestic partner and/or children under 18 — or up to two guests at most Admirals Club locations except for Airspace Lounge at San Diego International Airport (SAN) and JAL Sakura Lounge at Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL).

Delta Air Lines

Active-duty U.S. service members can call Delta Reservations at 800-221-1212 for discounted fares unavailable to the general public. Delta also offers priority boarding and free checked baggage to active-duty military members. How many bags you are allowed is based on the type of travel and fare type, and you must adhere to the specified size and weight restrictions for baggage .

United Airlines

United offers an additional checked baggage allowance to active duty military traveling on official orders. Active-duty military in uniform, as well as those with leave orders or rest and recuperation papers, are also invited to visit United Club lounges when traveling on a United-operated flight (immediate family may access the lounge, too). U.S. military veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and Reserve members and their families are also eligible for a 5% discount on United-operated flights through the Veterans Advantage program.

Alaska Airlines

In some markets, Alaska Airlines offers military fares to active-duty military personnel and their dependents when you call Alaska Airlines at 800-252-7522 to purchase your tickets. Active-duty U.S. military personnel can board early, check up to five bags for free, receive 15% off inflight food purchases and receive complimentary day passes to visit an Alaska Lounge when traveling in uniform. All other active-duty military personnel can purchase a discounted day pass for $30. Flight discounts are also available through Veterans Advantage .

Active-duty military personnel not traveling on orders get a 5% discount off the base fare by calling 800-JETBLUE. In a separate offer, JetBlue offers a 5% discount to U.S. active-duty military members, retired military members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members and their families who are enrolled in Veterans Advantage. Those who enroll in Veterans Advantage also get two free checked bags for leisure trips and up to five when traveling on duty.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier typically charges for carry-on bags and checked baggage. However, active-duty armed forces, National Guard and Reserve members receive a free carry-on bag, two free checked bags and one free personal item . Note: These baggage waivers apply only to active-duty military personnel. Families or traveling companions are not eligible.

Allegiant Air

U.S. active-duty and reserve military members, military veterans, members of the National Guard and their dependents get up to two pieces of checked baggage for free through the Allegiant Honors program . Also, the airline waives its typical fees for oversized checked baggage, a carry-on bag, getting a boarding pass printed at the airport and seat assignments. Qualifying service members can also board their flights early.

Spirit Airlines

Active-duty U.S. military members can check two bags for free and bring a carry-on item on board their flight for free, in addition to the already free personal item.

Military train travel discounts

Active-duty U.S. military personnel, their spouses and their dependents are eligible for a 10% discount on the lowest available fare in select fare classes. During your ticket search on Fare Finder, select "Military" for each eligible passenger. Amtrak also welcomes uniformed military personnel to the front of the ticket line.

Military theme park ticket discounts

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando is currently offering a Military Freedom Pass promotional ticket to all active-duty and retired service members. Ticket prices start at $199.99 for unlimited admission between now and Dec. 24, though blackout dates apply. Each eligible service member can purchase up to six promotional tickets, and they must buy them through a participating authorized military ticket and travel office.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood offers discounted tickets to active-duty and retired military personnel, 100% disabled veterans, Medal of Honor recipients, active Guard and Reserve members, and the spouses and dependents of the people in these categories. Ticket prices vary based on date, and tickets must be purchased at participating military ticket offices.

Walt Disney World

Active and retired U.S. military personnel are eligible for discounted hotel rates and specially priced theme park tickets at Walt Disney World . Blackout dates apply. Hotel stays can be booked by calling 407-939-7830. Tickets must be purchased at a participating U.S. military base ticket office.

Disneyland honors active and retired U.S. military personnel with discounted three- and four-day Park Hopper tickets. The Disney Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket includes access to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure each day of your ticket, excluding blackout dates. Pricing starts at $245, and you must purchase tickets at a participating U.S. military base ticket office. Hotel discounts are also available by calling 844-776-0015.

Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City offers a 30% ticket discount to U.S. active or retired military, veterans and military reservists, along with their spouses and dependent children (ages 4-17) living in their household. In addition to discounted tickets, Silver Dollar City invites all military members and veterans to help raise the American Flag during the park's daily opening ceremony. Service members are also given a red, white and blue ribbon to wear during their time in the park, allowing employees and guests to thank them for their service.

Busch Gardens and SeaWorld parks

Through the Waves of Honor program, all U.S. SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Aquatica and Sesame Place parks offer discounted tickets to active-duty military members and veterans.

Dollywood offers discounted tickets stand annual passes to U.S. active or retired military, veterans, military reservists, spouses and dependents. The savings amounts to about 30% off the regular ticket price.

Military cruise benefits

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line shows its appreciation for active and retired armed forces members with discounted cruise rates, onboard credits and reduced deposits . Additionally, every Carnival sailing has a Heroes Tribute Lounge and holds a military appreciation gathering for service members and their families.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line's Military Appreciation Program extends exclusive benefits to military members, veterans and their spouses. Members of the program receive a 10% discount on all cruise fares.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers special rates to all military members, active and retired, as well as their spouses. Discounted rates are only available on select sailings, and prices start at $185 per person, based on double occupancy.

Margaritaville at Sea

Margaritaville at Sea honors active and veteran military members with a free two-night cruise through the Heroes Sail Free program. The offer is valid only for ocean-view and interior cabins, and you must be sailing with at least one paying guest in the same cabin. Taxes and fees still apply.

Celebrity Cruises

Active and retired military members can save $25 on inside and ocean-view cabins and $100 on veranda cabins and above on select sailings. This discount applies to the first and second guest in the cabin.

Princess Cruises

Veterans and active, retired and disabled military personnel can receive up to $250 free onboard spending money on select Princess sailings. You can use this onboard credit for specialty dining, onboard boutiques, shore excursions, spa treatments and more.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers military rates to active and retired personnel, veterans and their spouses. The discounted rates also apply to friends and family members staying in the same cabin as the eligible service member. The best way to access the discounted rate is by booking through a travel agent or booking directly with Royal Caribbean over the phone.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers discounted fares to all active and retired U.S. military personnel , plus family members traveling with them. You can receive a discount of 5% on interior and ocean-view cabins, 10% on balcony and suite cabins and a "kids sail free" promotion on select sailings.

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers active and retired service members a special military discount of $100 off a river cruise when you use the code MIL100 at the time of booking.

Bottom line

A host of benefits await travelers who serve or have served in the U.S. military.

Because these benefits, their requirements and the eligibility of family, spouses and dependents vary, carefully research each military discount offer to avoid any surprises. Many airlines, hotels and other businesses might ask for proof of eligibility, so don't leave home without the military ID, veteran ID, dependent ID, orders and/or other documentation you'll need to take advantage of the many travel offers.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

• Credit cards
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• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
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• Small business guide
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The Guide to Airlines with Military Flight Discounts

After spending seven years in the U.S. Air Force as an Arabic linguist, Carissa is now a freelance writer using points and miles to fund a four-year (and counting!) adventure. She previously worked as a reporter for The Points Guy. Her writing has since been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes, Business Insider, and The Balance. When she's not flying, you'll usually find her in a Priority Pass lounge somewhere, sipping tea and cursing slow Wi-Fi.

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Table of Contents

U.S. airlines with military discounts

About veteran’s advantage, vetrewards, baggage discounts for military members, about american forces travel, if you’re looking for flights with military discounts.

Many businesses show their appreciation for U.S. military service members, whether that’s via special parking privileges or exclusive discounts on goods and services. The same is true for many airlines, particularly when it comes to those who are active duty military.

Let’s take a closer look at flights with military discounts, including which airlines offer them and who’s eligible.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines offers military fares to eligible service members. This includes those who are:

On official leave.

Reservists on active orders.

Within seven days of discharging from active duty.

Alaska also offers military discounts to spouses and dependents of active duty service members. Those who are older than 10 years old need to show a dependent ID.

Alaska doesn’t publish a specific discount amount. Instead, you’ll have to call 800-252-7522 to get a quote and purchase the ticket.

Those who are enrolled in VetRewards can get a 5% discount. This discount is valid for up to six people booked together.

Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air doesn’t offer discounts on airfare to military members, but it does provide a host of other benefits to both active duty members and veterans . This includes two free checked bags up to 99 pounds each, early boarding and the ability to print your boarding pass at the airport for free. Service members also receive waived fees for in-cabin pets, oversized bags, ticket changes and flight cancellations.

Family members of the service member or veteran can also take advantage of these benefits if they’re flying together and hold a dependent ID card.

American Airlines

American Airlines’ military discount is for both active duty military and those who are members of the government. You’ll need to call to get this deal. The phone number is 800-433-7300.

Active duty military members also receive free checked bags (up to three for leisure travel and five for those traveling on orders) and can board in the first boarding group.

Additionally, American Airlines offers 10% off vacation packages to those with a VetRewards membership.

» Learn more: A guide to TSA PreCheck for military members

Delta Air Lines

You’ll get discount military flights with Delta Air Lines if you’re an active duty service member. This benefit extends to Delta Vacations packages as well. To score these deals, you’ll need to call 800-221-1212.

Active duty military members also receive between three and five checked bags, with varying weight limits, depending on your class of service and if you’re flying on military orders or for leisure.

JetBlue Airways

JetBlue Airways provides a 5% discount on airfare to those who are active duty in the military, and only applies when you’re not traveling on orders.

The discount applies to all fare classes and destinations, even when traveling abroad, and includes two free checked bags.

You’ll need a VetRewards member ID to take advantage of the discount. To book your tickets, call 800-538-2583. The typical $25 service fee for booking over the phone is also waived.

» Learn more: How The Platinum Card® from American Express benefits military members

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines partners exclusively with Veteran’s Advantage to offer discounts to the armed forces. Members of VetRewards can get 5% off economy fares for all flight destinations. Business class flights are not eligible for the promotion.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines offers military pricing to those who are active duty as well as eligible government employees. The exact discount is unpublished, and you’ll need to call 800-435-9792 to book with the discount.

Military members on active duty may also bring more than two checked bags for free when flying the airline, weighing up to 100 pounds each. The baggage limit for all passengers — military members included — is 20 bags per flight.

United Airlines

Like Hawaiian Airlines, you’ll need to be enrolled with VetRewards from Veteran’s Advantage if you’re a military member seeking discounts on United flights. The total discount amount is 5% and is valid on all fare classes except basic economy. This special pricing has several limitations:

Flight must originate in the United States or Canada. 

Flights must be going to the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Central America or the Caribbean. 

Valid only on United-operated flights.

United provides some benefits to active duty service members and those who have been discharged in the last seven days, including free extra checked bags. For those traveling in uniform or are on leave, complimentary United Club lounge access is also provided.

» Learn more: How to save money on flights

Many airlines have teamed up with Veteran’s Advantage and its associated VetRewards program to offer cheap flights for military veterans — in some cases, it’s the only way to receive a discount. So what is Veteran’s Advantage?

Veteran’s Advantage is a third-party membership website available to both active duty and veteran service members. A month-to-month plan will cost you $9.99. Otherwise, it’s possible to purchase several years of access for less.

For example, a five-year membership costs around $200, which constitutes a large savings versus a monthly plan. If you’re a frequent traveler, signing up for a VetRewards account can save you money overall.

Nearly all airlines offer special perks for those traveling with luggage —even low-cost carriers such as Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines are willing to give you free checked bags if you’re in the military.

Some airlines, such as United, also provide complimentary airport lounge access to active duty military members, though requirements — such as traveling on official orders — can vary.

These waived bag fee benefits vary depending on whether you’re changing your duty station or simply traveling for leisure. Make sure you verify how it works with your airline of choice before showing up at the airport.

» Learn more: How to avoid paying checked baggage fees

Another way to receive travel discounts is through American Forces Travel, a specialty website available only to those who are serving or who have served. It’s an official Morale, Welfare and Recreation site and uses your personal information to verify eligibility.

American Forces Travel isn’t just limited to military flight discounts. The website also has hotels, rental cars, cruises, event tickets and travel packages available at a discount.

» Learn more: More military travel discounts you won’t want to miss

Joining the military and serving your country is no small feat. Many companies, including airlines, recognize your service, which is why they’ve made special accommodations for those in the armed forces.

Many major U.S. airlines offer some form of discount for those in the military, while others have partnered with Veteran’s Advantage to provide savings to active duty and veterans alike.

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Fly for Less: Military Discount Flights for Veterans & Military

Julie Provost

One way to save money while you are traveling is to find airlines with military discounts. However, some companies provide special military fares, and others only give you a discount or provide free bags on your flights. Here is a breakdown of the airlines that offer military discount flights. Please note that some airlines do not offer actual military discount flights, but they do offer other benefits.

Airlines with Military Discounts on Flights and Baggage

Table of Contents

• Alaska Airlines
• Allegiant Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Sun Country
• United Airlines

Alaska Airlines Military Discount

• What is the discount? Alaska Airlines offers special military fares to active duty and dependents in some markets. The fares would be valid on Alaska Airlines, Horizon, Sky West, and PenAir.
• If you have booked a military fare, the service member and dependent will be able to have 5 bags free of charge. In addition, active duty military and active duty dependents on travel orders would also receive the 5 bags free of charge. Bags can be up to 70 lbs.
• Alaska Airlines offers 15% off of food purchased on the airplane to all members of the military and their families.
• Active duty members pay $150 plus tax for pet travel vs the normal prices of between $250-350, up to $700.
• Active duty military can board the plane early.
• Who’s eligible? Active duty military and their dependents.
• How do you get the discount? In order to receive the special fares, you will have to call 1-800-252-7522. You will need to have a valid military ID or separation papers for travel within 7 days of discharge from active military service. Dependents need to be a legal relation of the military members, have proper identification, and those ages 10 and up will need to have a valid ID with “active” on it.

For more info, please visit our Alaska Airlines Military Discount page.

Allegiant Airlines Military Discount

• What is the discount? They do not have a military discount on airfare. However, they do offer free checked baggage for eligible military and veterans.
• For active duty, reserve duty, or national guard service members: Up to 2 pieces of checked baggage free, under 100lbs, no charge for oversized checked baggage, one carry-on free, free boarding pass printing at the airport, free seat assignments, pending availability, up to 1 pet in the cabin for free, may board at priority boarding at no charge, and they will not be charged when making a change or cancellation due to a change in orders.
• For military veterans and spouses or dependents of those mentioned above: Up to 2 pieces of checked baggage for free, under 40lbs, no charge for oversized checked baggage, one carry-on free, free boarding pass printing at the airport, free seat assignments, pending availability, and up to 1 pet in the cabin for free.
• Active duty
• National Guard
• Their spouses or dependents
• US military veterans
• How do you get the discount? You must show qualifying identification. Dependents do not have to be traveling with their military member to receive these benefits.

For more info, please visit our Allegiant Airlines Military Discount page.

American Airlines Military Discount

• What is the discount? American Airlines offers government or military fares in certain markets.
• What non-discount benefits do they offer? They do offer 1-5 bags for free, for active duty and/or deployments with an ID that are traveling on orders. They offer 1-3 bags for free for active duty on personal travel with ID.
• Who’s eligible? Active duty military.
• How do you get the discount? You will need to contact reservations at 1-800-433-7300 for information on this discount. Show ID for your bags when checking in.

For more info, please visit our American Airlines Military Discount page.

Delta Airlines Military Discount

• What is the discount? Delta offers a special military rate.
• They offer active duty military more free bags than civilian customers.
• They offer special military medical travel discounts to those who have a war-injured immediate family member or domestic partner.
• Military members can check their pets as baggage for a fee when traveling on active transfer orders. They must book this at least 48 hours before arrival and fees do apply. Only certain animals will qualify.
• How do you get the discount? In order to receive the free special military rate, you will need to call them directly at 1-800-325-1771.

For more info, please visit our Delta Airlines Military Discount page.

Save big every day for free with discounts for military and veterans!

Frontier Airlines Military Discount

• What is the discount? They do not have a military discount on airfare but offer a free checked bag. 
• Normally, Frontier charges for their bags, both checked bags, and carry-ons. They do offer active duty one free carry-on bag, one free checked bag, including oversize and overweight bags, and a personal item.
• Who’s eligible?   Active duty service members. This benefit does not apply to family members.
• How do you get the discount?   The service member needs to show a valid ID and/or be in uniform. They also can not add their baggage online.

For more info, please visit our Frontier Airlines Military Discount page.

Hawaiian Islands Military Discount

• What is the discount? They do not have a specific military discount, however, if you are a member of Veterans Advantage you can receive 5% off coach flights from the US Mainland to the Hawaiian islands and from Honolulu to select international locations.
• For active duty, and those who are retired or retiring, who have proof of official government travel orders, and their qualified dependents: Will be allowed 5 checked complimentary bags per person for all coach/first/business classes of travel when traveling on orders, with a limit of 70 lbs per bag.
• For active duty military personnel: They are allowed 2 complimentary checked bags per person for coach/first/business classes of travel when traveling for personal reasons, with a limit of 50 lbs per bag. This does not apply to dependents.
• Who’s eligible? Active duty, those who are retired or are retiring, and qualified dependents depending on the benefit.
• How do you get the discount? Service members need to make sure they check in at the Hawaiian Airlines airport counters. Those who do so at the Kiosks and use web check-in will only be able to have 2 complimentary bags.

For more info, please visit our Hawaiian Airlines Military Discount page.

JetBlue Military Discount

• What is the discount? JetBlue offers a special military fare for active duty personnel that are not traveling on orders. The discount is 5% off the base fare. Those with Veterans Advantage can receive 5% off travel to over 85 destinations as well as a checked baggage allowance of 2 pieces at no additional cost.
• What non-discount benefits do they offer? If they are on active duty traveling on orders, as well as their dependents, they can receive a checked bag waiver of 5 bags each. For active duty traveling for leisure, they can receive one for 2 bags each.
• How do you get the discount? In order to receive the military fares, they need to call 1-800-JETBLUE. They also need to show their DOD CAC card, as well as travel orders if applicable.

For more info, please visit our JetBlue Airlines page.

Southwest Military Discount

• What is the discount? Southwest offers a military rate for active duty and their families.
• What non-discount benefits do they offer? Southwest gives everyone 2 free bags. Military passengers traveling on active duty or permanent change of station orders are exempt from the 2-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges as long as they are under 100 lbs, and 80 inches in size.
• How do you get the discount? You would need to call, 1-800-I-Fly-SWA, in order to receive their military discount.

For more info, please visit our Southwest Airlines Military Discount page.

Spirit Airlines Military Discount 

• What is the discount? They do not have a specific military discount.
• What non-discount benefits do they offer? They offer 2 free checked bags, and a free carry-on, in addition to the already free personal item.
• Who’s eligible? Active duty military, only the service member.
• How do you get the discount? They would need to have their bags checked at the counter, and present their ID. They can also save time by verifying their military service through ID.me online.

For more info, please visit our Spirit Airlines page.

Sun Country Military Discount

• What is the discount? Sun Country does not have a military discount on airfare but they do offer a military bag allowance.
• They offer 3 free bags for military personnel.  The first 2 bags can be checked with the 3rd being overhead.  If your first 2 checked bags are over the weight limit, there is no additional charge.  A 3rd checked bag over the weight limit would incur a charge.
• How do you get the discount?   The service member needs to show a valid ID.

For more info, please visit Sun Country’s support page .

United Airlines Military Discount Flights

• What is the discount? With United, you can receive 5% off your tickets through Veterans Advantage.
• What non-discount benefits do they offer? Active duty military personnel and their accompanying dependents not traveling on official business can have 3 checked bags waived up to 70 lbs each. Active duty military personnel and their dependents who are on official travel orders can have 5 checked bags waived up to 100 lbs each.
• Who’s eligible? Military veterans, active duty military, national guard, reserve members, and their families. Active duty for the bag benefit.
• How do you get the discount? Through Veterans Advantage. For bags, present ID when checking in.

For more info, please visit our United Airlines Military Discount page.

Space-A Travel

One of the best ways to save money while traveling is through Space-A. Most of the flights are free or have a small tax in the case of Patriot Express flights.

However, flying Space-A isn’t as simple as buying a ticket and then showing up for your flight. Space-A is a privilege, not a benefit, and will allow uniformed service members and their dependents the ability to fly on DOD aircraft on a space-available basis.

Space-A Eligibility

You or your dependents will be in different categories based on military status. Space-A Travel is available to active duty, retirees that hold a Blue retiree ID card and receive retirement pay, as well as their dependents.

Retirees with a Gray Area ID card have limited availability however their dependents are not able to use Space-A. National Guard and reserves can use Space-A in certain circumstances and they and their dependents can use Space-A if they are activated over 30 days.

Space-A can pretty much take you anywhere in the world as long as there is a terminal that uses Space-A nearby. However, you may be limited on where you can go based on your status. There is a complicated sign-up process and you might have to wait longer than normal in order to travel to where you want to go.

Many times a flight can get canceled and they can only take a limited amount of people. It is best to use Space-A when you have extra time and flying when school is in session for dependents would make things a little easier.

Space-A Website

RELATED: Disabled Veterans Can Now Fly Space-A

Due to the nature of military discount flights, the terms listed above could change at any time. Always make sure to check with the company directly for the most updated information.

>> Never miss deals, discounts, or savings for military and veterans!  Sign up today to receive the MyMilitaryBenefits discount newsletter free in your inbox!

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About the author

Julie Provost is a freelance writer, and blogger. She lives in Tennessee with her National Guard husband and three boys.

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Military benefits

Supporting our troops

At American we’re proud to honor those whose service has given us the freedom to fly. To show our appreciation, we have special offers and benefits in sincere gratitude for your service.

We offer government or military fares in some markets. Call Reservations for more information.

Contact Reservations

U.S. active duty military, veterans and their families can save on vacations by subscribing and booking through WeSalute+, founded as Veterans Advantage.

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Depending on your destination, bags are free of charge with active U.S. military ID*:

• Up to 5 bags 100 lbs each for active U.S. military and / or dependents traveling on orders
• Up to 3 bags 50 lbs each for active U.S. military on personal / leisure travel
• Military bags

*Free checked bags apply when traveling on American marketed and operated itineraries. Free checked bags don’t apply to codeshare flights operated by our partners.

We welcome active duty military with ID to board the plane in Group 1 along with our customers in First.

Boarding process

Military working dogs

Military and police dogs working in detection, security enforcement and combat must be listed when you book your trip. We waive pet charges for trained active military dogs traveling in the cabin if they’re on official duty and have written documents.

Working dogs trained to attack are not permitted in the cabin and must be checked.

Checked pets

We accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active duty U.S. military traveling on assignment. Fees and restrictions apply.

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Our purpose is to care for people on life’s journey, which is why we work to make a difference in the lives of our heroes. We’ve partnered with the Gary Sinise Foundation, George W. Bush Institute, and the Medal of Honor Foundation to make positive change for those who sacrifice for our country.

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As a member of AAdvantage® you can donate miles to important causes, such as Miles for Heroes. This program helps organizations that provide support to veterans, military members and their families.

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Disabled Veterans Can Fly Space-A

Many disabled veterans are eligible to fly Space-A on military aircraft.

The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act allows veterans who are rated as permanently and totally disabled by the  Department of Veterans Affairs  to travel space available on military aircraft.

Veterans will be assigned a travel priority of Category 6, the lowest priority available, along with retirees and their dependents.

The dependents of eligible disabled veterans may also accompany the veteran on flights in the U.S. or its territories.

Related: 4 Tips for Flying Space-A

Authorized disabled veterans can travel in the continental United States (CONUS) or directly between CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa.

Disabled veterans must have a DD Form 2765, Defense Department ID Card (Tan), in order to fly Space-A.

The Space Available Program

Space available flights, better known as Space-A or military hops, allow eligible passengers to fill unused seats on DoD-owned or -controlled aircraft. Space-A passengers can fly only after all the space-required passengers and cargo have been accommodated. Space-A passengers are then loaded in priority groups, with emergency leave being the top priority and retirees and disabled veterans rating the lowest priority.

See a full breakdown of all the categories here.

Space-A passengers can take up to two pieces of luggage at 70 pounds each; pets are not allowed.

Not all Space-A flights originate from military bases. Commercial airports such as Baltimore-Washington Marshall International and Seattle-Tacoma International also offer Space-A flights.

Long gone are the days of having to show up in person at the passenger terminal to register for a flight. Now, Air Mobility Command, which runs the Space-A program, lets you register for flights via email, and all Space-A terminals have Facebook pages where you can see what flights are coming up and how many seats are available.

Check out AMC's page for details on how to find your local Space-A terminal and instructions on how to register for a flight.

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Military Veterans Gain Access to Priceline-Run Discount Travel Website

Armed forces travel program offers cheaper flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, more.

Aaron Kassraie,

A recent policy change makes 16 million veterans eligible to receive travel discounts of up to 60 percent off through the American Forces Travel (AFT) website, according to an announcement from the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD).

Previously, only active duty, National Guard, reservists, their families and DOD civilians were eligible. Now, all honorably discharged veterans from any branch of service are granted access.

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. Find out how much you could save in a year with a membership.  Learn more.

AARP Travel Benefits

AARP members, regardless of military service, have access to  a variety of travel benefits  including 10 percent off at select hotels, up to 30 percent off select car rentals, up to $300 in extra onboard credits for select cruises, and a 5 percent rebate (up to $350) on eligible group hotel bookings. Visit the  AARP Travel Center  Powered by Expedia or call 800-675-4318 to book travel.

The AFT website offers over 1.2 million hotels in 71,000 global destinations along with flights, rental cars, cruises, vacation packages and event tickets. Discounts can range from 35 percent to 60 percent off traditional pricing, according to AFT.

AFT launched in 2019 as a Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program designed to provide travel benefits to the military community. The website is operated by Priceline, the online travel agency, at no cost to the DOD. Meanwhile, the program generates revenue to support quality-of-life programs for service members and families, according to DOD.

First-time users are required to  provide their service information  to determine eligibility through the DOD's Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Once verified, trips can be booked at any time.

Those who are eligible for American Forces Travel discounts include:

• All current active duty military (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard)
• All members of the reserve components and National Guard
• Coast Guard Auxiliary Active Duty
• All current active duty and retired National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
• All current active duty and retired U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS)
• All retired military, including those in the Reserves and National Guard who are retirement eligible
• All Medal of Honor recipients
• All veterans with service-connected disabilities, all veterans who are Purple Heart recipients, all veterans who are former prisoners of war, all individuals approved and designated as the primary family caregivers of eligible veterans under the Department of Veterans Affairs Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.
• Eligible family members who are officially sponsored (ID card holder) by authorized patrons in the above categories
• All Department of Defense and Coast Guard civilians, including appropriated funds (APF) employees and nonappropriated funds (NAF) employees
• Full-time, paid employees of the American Red Cross and United Service Organizations (USO) hired in the United States and serving at U.S. DOD installations overseas
• All Veterans of the United States Armed Forces with a discharge status of honorable or general under honorable conditions.

Source: American Forces Travel

Aaron Kassraie writes about issues important to military veterans and their families for AARP. He also serves as a general assignment reporter. Kassraie previously covered U.S. foreign policy as a correspondent for the Kuwait News Agency's Washington bureau and worked in news gathering for USA Today and Al Jazeera English.

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Free entrance to national parks for current military, veterans, and gold star families, embed video.

The National Park Service in partnership with Operation Live Well would like to thank military personnel and their families for their service and invite them to enjoy their national parks.

The free Military Pass is a way to thank current US military members and their dependents, Gold Star Families, and US military veterans for their support of our country and to encourage them to explore recreational opportunities on their public lands and waters.

A free lifetime Military Pass is available for Gold Star Families and US military veterans. A free annual Military Pass is available for current US military members and their dependents. The passes provide free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests.

What is the Military, Veterans, and Gold Star Family Free Access Program?

Current US military and dependents, Gold Star Families, and US military veterans are eligible to receive free annual or lifetime passes which cover entrance or day use fees at national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and other federal recreational lands.

Who is eligible to get a free Military Annual Pass?

Current members of the US Armed Forces and their dependents can enter national parks for free with an Interagency Military Annual Pass through the America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass (Interagency) Program. There are a total of eight Interagency Passes available. For more information and to obtain these passes, please visit the USGS Online Store .  

Who is eligible to get a free Military Lifetime Pass as a veteran?

For purposes of this program, a veteran is identified as an individual who has served in the US Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves. There is no application or form to fill out to receive the Military Lifetime Pass. Simply present one of the following forms of identification to get the Interagency Military Lifetime Pass when entering a national park:

• Unexpired Department of Defense Identification Card (DD Form 2, DD Form 2765, or Next Generation USID replacement)
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
• Veteran ID Card
• Veterans designation on a state-issued US driver’s license or identification card

Find places to get an Interagency pass , including sites that issue the Military Lifetime Pass.

Who is eligible to get a free Military Lifetime Pass as a member of a Gold Star Family?

Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the US Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a “qualifying situation,” such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the United States while serving with the US Armed Forces. Eligibility requirements are in section 3.2 of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36.

How does a member of a Gold Star Family get a free Military Lifetime Pass?

Before visiting a national park site, Gold Star Family members must download and print a voucher to present to park staff, exchange for an Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, or place on the vehicle dashboard at unstaffed sites (representations of the voucher are prohibited; the physical voucher or pass must be present). By downloading and signing the voucher, Gold Star Family members are self-certifying that they meet the required criteria as identified in sections 3.2 and 3.3 of  Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36 .

View a list of federal locations that issue passes . 

Download the Gold Star Family Voucher .

Gold Star Family members can obtain a free Military Lifetime Pass online through the  USGS Online Store . There is a processing fee for passes ordered through the USGS Online Store.

Does the pass include others traveling with the veteran or Gold Star Family member?

The free Military Lifetime Pass admits the veteran or the holder of the Gold Star Family voucher as well as occupants of a single, private non-commercial vehicle OR the veteran or voucher-holder and three persons (16 and older) where per person fees are charged. The passes are non-transferrable and are void if altered.

What agencies are participating in the free Military Pass program?

The program waives entrance or standard amenity fees for the following agencies:

• National Park Service
• Bureau of Land Management
• Bureau of Reclamation
• US Fish and Wildlife Service
• US Forest Service
• US Army Corps of Engineers

How long will free access be available?

Veterans and Gold Star Families receive free lifetime access.

What is covered by the free Military Pass program?

The Gold Star voucher and Military Lifetime Pass cover entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges as well as standard amenity fees (day use fees) at national forests and grasslands and on lands managed by the National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and US Army Corps of Engineers.

What is not covered by the free Military Pass program?

The pass does not cover expanded amenity fees such as camping, tours or special recreation permits; reservation fees and fees for organized groups or concession-operated facilities or activities.

Are passes available for disabled veterans or other people with disabilities?

Yes. The Interagency Access Pass is a lifetime pass that is free for any US citizen or permanent resident, including a veteran or Gold Star Family member, who has a permanent disability. An Access Pass may also provide discounts for expanded amenities like camping, guided tours etc. For more information visit USGS Online Store - Access Pass .

What if I have a current Interagency Military Pass or other type of Interagency Pass?

If you already have a Military Pass, Access Pass, or one of the other Interagency Passes, you can simply use that pass for free access.

If you have recently purchased an Interagency Annual or Senior Pass, unfortunately no refunds are permitted.

All Interagency Passes are non-transferable.

Explore military history in national parks, learn about our military heritage, and find opportunities for veterans in parks.

Learn all the options for entrance passes, including a free entrance pass for current U.S. Military personnel and their dependents.

Begin planning your trip to national parks with information to find parks, events, maps, fees and passes, trip ideas, and more.

Last updated: November 30, 2023

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7 Under-the-Radar Benefits That Veterans Might Not Know About

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 1, 2024

Perks for Veterans

Serving in the military is a profound commitment, and there is simply not enough we're able to do for the men and women who served or are still serving our country to show our gratitude. Their sacrifices are, after all, too meaningful to ever appropriately compensate. 

Still, there are many programs and perks that exist for veterans. Some of them fly a bit more under the radar, so we've highlighted them below to make sure every veteran has a chance to explore their options.

1. Free Tax Prep

Not only can veterans take advantage of property tax exemptions , but they can also reap a few other tax-related benefits. The IRS partners with the VA to offer free tax preparation services for veterans, and they take it a step further with free filing. 

2. Disney World's Shades of Green

Disney World has expanded its reach so much that it really does seem to be living up to its name. With so many resorts under its moniker, not everyone knows about Shades of Green  — Disney's resort that's dedicated exclusively to military members and their families. Eligibility for the resort includes different tiers, but at its root, it exists as a place for veterans to enjoy a Disney vacation at a lower price point. 

If you're planning to take advantage of the resort's discount rates, you'll want to plan ahead, paying close attention to what offers are available. The resort's "Salute to Our Veterans" promotion, for instance, allows any honorably discharged veterans to vacation at Shades of Green during January and September.

3. Free Space-A Travel

Veterans and their families can travel with Space-A flights – formally known as Military Airlift Command or MAC flights – to take advantage of cheaper flights. Military flights can be more unpredictable than standard commercial flights, but for travelers who have room for flexibility and a desire to save money, they are worth looking into.

4. National Parks Pass

Current military members and their dependents, veterans, and Gold Star Families (family members of fallen soldiers who died in the line of duty) can get into national parks for free through the National Park Service's Free Access Program . Eligible applicants can receive annual or lifetime passes.

For more money-saving tips,   please sign up for our free newsletters .

5. Long-Term Care

Many veterans qualify for valuable long-term care benefits through the VA . These benefits can help with daily living activities, medical care, and support, whether needed at home, in a community setting, or in a nursing home. Depending on your needs and eligibility, options may include skilled home health care, adult day health programs, homebound meal delivery, or assistance with bathing, dressing, and medication management. 

For veterans with service-connected disabilities, financial assistance may be available to cover some or all of these costs. Just remember that enrollment in VA healthcare is necessary to access most long-term care services. 

Related:  12 Travel Benefits for Veterans and Service Members

6. Mortgage Help

There are a variety of programs to help veterans secure a mortgage, and the cornerstone of this support is the VA Home Loan program . The program offers competitive rates, no down payment requirements, and waived insurance, making it significantly more accessible than traditional loans. 

State and local programs, along with veterans service organizations, provide down payment grants, homebuyer education, and advocacy specific to veterans' needs. 

Related:   The 10 Best and Worst States for Military Retirees

7. Airline Discounts on Baggage

Many airlines salute veterans by offering baggage fee discounts . Some carriers, like JetBlue and American Airlines, extend free checked bags for active duty personnel on official or personal travel, while others like United Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer special fares that include generous baggage allowances. 

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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A dental debacle: Why veterans struggle to navigate VA’s oral care

Marine Corps veteran Jeremy Williams was humiliated last summer when his front six teeth fell out of his mouth in the middle of a business meeting.

Almost a year later, he’s infuriated that he still can’t get his Veterans Affairs health insurance to correct the problem.

“It sucks,” the 42-year-old said. “I don’t smile as much anymore, because I’ve got no teeth to show. I don’t know what it’s like to bite into a steak or a burger without having to cut it into little pieces. Right now, I have to cut my food up like I did for my kids when they were three and four.”

Williams’ dental problems stem from an injury he suffered in 2006 during a roadside bomb attack in Ramadi, Iraq. The blast threw him face-first into his weapon mount, cracking the upper bones in his mouth.

But despite what would seem to be an obvious service-connected injury, Williams has spent most of the last 22 years adrift in the VA health care system , forking over tens of thousands of his own money to cover an array of dental problems stemming from the injury. And for the last 10 months, he’s been trying to figure out how to get the VA to pay for surgery to put his front teeth back into his mouth.

“It’s so frustrating because if I was missing a limb from war, I know I’d be able to get a prosthetic right away,” he said. “VA is good at that. But dental stuff doesn’t work that way.”

Advocates say those shortcomings in VA dental coverage are a common complaint among veterans, both those with minor and serious injuries.

“This is not really an issue of ... denied claims, because for the most part, dental care is just not really available to veterans,” said Patrick Murray, director of the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ National Legislative Service. “But if they could get it and use it, it would save money in veterans’ care down the line.”

VA leaders say they are working to improve the system and have added hundreds more dental workers in the last year. But officials also anticipate hundreds of thousands more individuals will be added to dental care programs over the next few years, thanks to recent changes in VA health care eligibility rules.

Whether the staff additions will be enough to keep up with demand — and address ongoing shortfalls in the system — remains unclear.

Who gets VA dental care?

The primary complaints regarding VA dental care usually focus on eligibility or accessibility.

Generally, to be eligible for department dental coverage, veterans must have a service-connected disability specifically related to their teeth or mouth, or be rated 100% disabled because of other service injuries. Individuals can be eligible in other circumstances, but most of those situations provide only temporary or partial dental help.

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Currently, VA provides medical care for more than 9 million veterans. Of that group, only about 1.8 million were eligible for dental care last year as part of their veterans health care benefits. And just around 40% of those eligible individuals — about 685,000 veterans — actually used the care last year. VA does offer an option to purchase dental care to some veterans through a department-run insurance program, but fewer than 100,000 veterans are currently enrolled in that plan.

In a report released earlier this year, researchers from the American Institute of Dental Public Health and CareQuest Institute found higher rates of dental problems among veterans than their civilian peers, including issues with tooth decay (56% among veterans versus 37% in the general population) and gum disease (42% versus 27%).

They estimated that nearly 600,000 veterans, many of them currently not covered under VA rules, missed time at work or saw their productivity significantly hurt due to oral health problems in recent years.

Emergency department visits to treat those issues total roughly $1.7 billion annually. VA spending on dental care for eligible veterans amounted to about $2.5 billion last year.

“Veterans pay 65% more in out-of-pocket dental costs on average compared to non-veterans,” the report stated. “The fragmented health care system that veterans and many Americans experience perpetuates inequitable and costly outcomes.”

An X-ray showing a patient with dental implants. (Getty Images)

Annaliese Cothron, executive director of the institute, said the issue isn’t unique to veterans.

“Most Americans are experiencing inequitable and inadequate oral health care that’s often costly,” she said. “And the divorce of the mouth from the rest of the body has affected everyone.”

Cothron added that veterans are particularly vulnerable to dental problems because of other service-related issues like battlefield injuries, mental health difficulties or military toxic exposure complications. Poor dental health can lead to larger problems in those other medical areas, and vice versa.

Finding a dentist

These difficulties are all too familiar to Williams, who said his overall health has been significantly hurt by his dental problems.

After being medically retired from the service following his injuries in Iraq, the VA provided care for Williams’ traumatic brain injury, muscular damage and other assorted health issues.

But, save for an initial cursory dental appointment, his oral issues went unaddressed for almost 10 years, when he bit into a piece of chicken and left several teeth behind.

“I had to go see a private dentist in my hometown, because the wait times for a VA dentist were astronomical,” he said. “So, I had to pay for it all myself.”

Williams thought the $12,000 fix was a permanent one. But early last summer, he was at a meeting at the Ukrainian embassy in Washington, D.C., when his rebuilt upper teeth fell into his palm mid-sentence.

“I do have full dental insurance through VA, and they had increased my rating to 100% disabled,” he said. “But I find out the network of providers they have aren’t available for emergencies. So, I start driving home, my teeth in hand, calling every dentist I can find in Virginia.”

Marine Corps veteran Jeremy Williams is shown in a pair of photos in 2005 (left) while he was in service and in March 2024 (right, center) during a ceremony belatedly awarding him a Purple Heart. Williams said he smiles much less frequently now because of ongoing dental problems from his time in the service. (Photos courtesy of Jeremy Williams)

Murray said many individual VA medical centers don’t have the staff or community partners to handle oral exams for veterans. When there are practices available, wait times can be extensive.

“For services like maternity care, most of those cases end up being sent out,” he said. “But it just doesn’t work the same way for dental care, for unknown reasons.”

After hours of calls, Williams managed to locate a dentist who could deal with his immediate health problems and stabilize his mouth. But getting his mouth put back together would require more lengthy surgeries, including drilling new anchors into his skull to permanently hold the teeth in place.

“We developed a plan, but VA won’t pay for it, because this dentist isn’t in their network,” Williams said. “And I used to work as a legislative advocate, so I tried to convince the oral surgeon to join the network so I could have VA cover the costs. But he won’t do that, because he knows payments from VA can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months.”

So now Williams, who has spent more than a year with a significant gap in his upper row of teeth, must choose between paying for the procedure himself once more or starting the reconstruction process over again with a new dentist, a decision that might also include a months-long wait for an initial evaluation appointment.

“The pain is manageable right now,” he said. “I’m never not in pain. But I can still work and do things. I just don’t know what the next step is.”

Filling in the gaps

Advocates believe those subsequent steps need to come from Congress.

At least part of the solution is cleaning up VA’s community care programs, a common complaint among lawmakers who say the process is too cumbersome for both patients and providers. They want to see quicker scheduling options and much faster reimbursements.

Officials from the American Institute of Dental Public Health are also backing a collection of legislative proposals pending in Congress to specifically improve dental coverage and programs.

One bill from Rep. Julia Brownley, D-Calif., would authorize the VA to provide dental care to all veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, essentially expanding dental options to millions more veterans.

“We simply cannot address veterans’ whole health without addressing the critical and dire need for dental care, which is just as integral as all other care,” she said in a statement introducing the bill in spring 2023. “It is our duty to ensure that our nation’s veterans receive first-class medical care and this bill moves us closer to that goal.”

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Murray said that approach would be revolutionary for the veteran community.

“With unlimited resources, you can imagine a VA medical center where floor one is where the pharmacy is, floor two is where the dental care is, everyone can get everything taken care of in one place,” he said.

But it would also be expensive, potentially adding tens of billions in new spending . That would be a difficult sell in a Congress that’s already engaged in annual fights over how large the federal budget has become.

A more modest plan is a proposed pilot program from Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., which would “provide comprehensive dental care to veterans diagnosed with diabetes and ischemic heart disease.”

It would add up to 3 million veterans diagnosed with those illnesses to the list of individuals eligible for VA dental care, and cover those costs for four years.

But Cothron said those backing the plan believe it will save taxpayers in the long run, in the form of reduced care costs for a host of medical issues related to poor oral hygiene.

“It’s an investment in health that will help everyone long-term,” she said.

Lawmakers held a hearing on the idea late last year, but the measure hasn’t advanced since. Given the tight legislative schedule in this election year, it’s unclear whether the proposal can gain any traction over the next few months.

Brushing up the workforce

With or without legislative changes, more veterans will be eligible for dental care in the years ahead.

During a May 2 appearance before the Senate Appropriations Committee, VA Secretary Denis McDonough said department officials estimate the number of veterans who qualify for some type of dental coverage will reach nearly 2.8 million by 2028. That’s double what the total was at the start of 2021.

The reason for the sharp rise has to do less with veterans’ teeth and more with recent legislation surrounding troops’ exposure to toxic chemicals in war zones.

The 2022 Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act — better known as the PACT Act — created a host of new health care benefits for veterans exposed to burn pit smoke, chemical defoliant sprays and other toxic chemicals during their time in the service.

It also made it easier for many veterans with existing injuries to push their disability rating to 100%, triggering the dental care eligibility.

The VA secretary said officials are aware of a potential wave of veterans looking for help with oral problems in the coming years. The department currently employs about 3,500 full-time dental staffers and another 600 or so part-time specialists.

Total dental staffing was up to about 5% from 2022 to 2023, but McDonough said he knows many more will be needed as the demand increases.

“Our budget request [for fiscal 2025] gets us going on that process,” McDonough said. “But we’re in a transition period now, until we have dentists and hygienists and chairs in our facilities, we’re going to have to be relying on the community for that care.”

That means more veterans like Williams searching for private-sector solutions to their health problems, all while hoping that the VA will eventually pick up the bill.

Williams said department handlers have indicated they may have another option for his facial reconstruction: Getting both oral surgery and behavioral health therapy done at a world-class clinic in California, with VA picking up the full tab.

But even if that plan comes together, it will mean multiple cross-country trips over the coming months before the issues are fixed. For now, the exasperated Williams must navigate the lack of fast or easy fixes for his situation.

“I’m 100% disabled, it’s 100% combat related, I’m a Purple Heart recipient who is medically retired,” he said. “I don’t know why this is so hard.

“But at this point, I don’t care if it takes another 10 years to fix it. Uncle Sam is going to pay for my new teeth.”

Leo covers Congress, Veterans Affairs and the White House for Military Times. He has covered Washington, D.C. since 2004, focusing on military personnel and veterans policies. His work has earned numerous honors, including a 2009 Polk award, a 2010 National Headliner Award, the IAVA Leadership in Journalism award and the VFW News Media award.

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