The Ultimate Military Discount Travel Guide (2017)

Millions of men, women, and their families have made daily sacrifices to ensure the freedoms we enjoy in the United States. There’s no denying that the members of our armed forces have given a lot to keep our country safe and protected. Currently, there are about 1.3 million active duty military members with an additional 865,000 in reserve, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Furthermore, as of 2015, the United States Census Bureau reported there were another 18.8 million military veterans.

While there are many opportunities to honor these heroes, such as Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and a simple “Thank you for your service,” some companies have decided to take their gratitude to another level by providing military members and their families the opportunity to save some money, as well.

Travel expenses – whether due to moving for duty or taking a vacation to spend time with your family – can be a huge strain for military members. In honor of those who are serving or have served our country, many companies are proud to offer special savings for active military, U.S. National Guard, reservists, and veterans as a way to say, “thank you” and to show their appreciation.

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Note: The information provided within this guide is correct as of the time of publication. Please note that some of these deals and discounts may have changed after the date of publication, impacting the accuracy of this information.

What to know about military discounts

When it comes to taking advantage of a military discount, one of the biggest things you need to know is that you should simply ask! Many companies may not advertise these special offers online but are pleased to offer one when you ask and present identification.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning a move or trip and looking for military specific discounts or deals:

Don’t be afraid to ask!
As mentioned above, just because you don’t see a military specific discount or offer listed, don’t assume that one doesn’t exist. Ask, and you just might receive.
Double check who qualifies.
Generally, any military specific discount is open to all active duty military members, which typically includes National Guard and Reservist members as well. However, they might not include veterans. Be sure to ask and make sure in advance.
Verify how to receive the discount.
Some companies let you show ID when you show up while others want you to provide proof of service at the time of booking. Make sure to check the details to ensure you receive the discount.
Make sure you have ID.
Nine times out of 10, you’ll need to show ID and/or proof of military service in order to receive the specific offer. Not sure which ID to bring? Check out our checklist below.
Discounts may vary.
Discounts may vary for a number of reasons. For instance, some hotels offer a standard percentage off, while others offer a special rate based on supply and demand. Additionally, some franchises leave special offers to the owner’s discretion.
Shop around – just in case!
Just because you qualify for a military specific discount, doesn’t mean it’s the best offer at the moment. Shop around to see if there’s another special – such as an end of summer deal – that might be worth more.

What ID do I need?

Active Duty ID card
Department of Defense Common Access Card
Guard/Reserve Military ID card
Retiree Military ID card
Military Dependent ID card
Veteran ID card

Other forms of ID that may be acceptable:

DD Form 214
Discharge paperwork
VA Health Care card
VA issued ID card
State driver’s license with veteran designation
Veterans organization card (DAV, American Legion, VFW, etc.)

Need proof of service?

If you served in the Armed Forces, but don’t have a copy of your records, you can request a copy of your DD Form 214 or service records from the National Archives for free!

Whether you’re moving for duty or want to spend a week away from home with the family on vacation, we want to help you enjoy your travels while saving some money. This Ultimate Military Discount Travel Guide will help you plan your trip with savings and offers exclusive to military members and their families. You’ll find information about hotels and lodging, flights, rental cars, and recreational activities. We’ve also included some tips for planning your trip as well as additional resources for military families that may be of assistance when traveling for duty or leisure.

Start saving today with our Ultimate Military Discount Travel Guide!

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Airlines, flights & baggage

One of the largest expenses when it comes to moving or traveling is the cost of getting there. Depending on where you’re going, you may need to fly, which can range from a couple of hundred dollars each to a thousand dollars or more per person. On top of that, baggage costs and other fees can drive the price up. All of the airlines on our list offer special baggage rates (such as three free bags), and some even offer discounts on flights.

Keep in mind: In some cases, you’ll need to call in to the specific airline to make your reservation and receive the discount.

These are some of the airlines offering special discounts to military members, their families, and veterans:

Military airline discounts
Airline	Discount	Details
Allegiant Air	Baggage discounts Up to three (3) pieces of checked baggage free. Each bag must weigh under 100 lbs. No charge for oversized checked baggage One (1) carry-on bag within Allegiant size limits, free Free boarding pass printing at the airport Free seat assignments, pending availability Up to one (1) pet in cabin free Active military may board with priority boarding at no charge Active military will not be charged a change or cancellation fee due to a change in orders	Offer available to U.S. active duty military, military veterans, members of the National Guard, military reserve, and their dependents with valid identification.
Alaska Air	Baggage discounts Free carryon bag Up to five (5) bags checked for free (then $75) $25 gate check fee Overweight bags free up to 70 lbs. (then $75) $75 oversize bag fee	Offer available to active duty U.S. military and U.S. military dependents on travel orders.
American Airlines	Baggage discounts Up to five (5) bags free for active U.S. military and/or dependents with ID traveling on orders Up to three (3) bags free for active U.S. military with ID on personal travel	Offer available to U.S. active duty military and their dependents with valid identification.
Delta	Flight & baggage discounts Military discounted flights for active U.S. service members Exclusive military discounts with Delta Vacations Up to five (5) 100 lb. bags free when on military orders Up to two (2) 50 lbs. bags free when on personal travel in basic economy, main cabin, or Delta Comfort Up to three (3) 70 lbs. bags free when on person travel in first class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One	Call the Delta Military and Government Desk at 800-325-1771 M-F 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST to assist with booking.
JetBlue	Flight & baggage discounts Active duty military personnel traveling on orders can receive special military fare class that removes any advanced-purchase requirements Veterans enrolled in Veterans Advantage receive a 5% discount Up to two (2) bags each for you and dependents traveling with you when on active duty traveling for leisure Up to five (5) bags each for you and dependents traveling with you when on active duty traveling for duty	Active duty traveling for leisure will be required to show DoD Common Access Card. Active duty traveling on duty will be required to show travel orders and DoD Common Access Card.
Southwest	Discount varies Southwest has special offers for Military and Government officials who contact them directly. Offers are not available online.	Contact Southwest 2/47 at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA to inquire about special military offers.
United	Flight & baggage discounts Up to 5% discount on tickets for United and United Express operated flights for U.S. military veterans, active duty military, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families Up to three (3) bags (70 lbs. & 62 in.) free for you and dependents on same reservation when on active duty traveling for leisure Up to five (5) bags (100 lbs. & 115 in.) free for you and dependents (even if not on same reservation) when on active duty traveling for duty	Must be a Veterans Advantage member to receive discounted ticket price.

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Hotels & lodging

Aside from the actual cost of getting to your destination, lodging is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to moving and/or vacationing. During vacations, you’ll obviously want a safe, comfortable, and affordable place to rest your head after a busy day. In the case of a move, you may need to stay at an extended stay lodge until you can establish your new residence. Check out the hotel list to find a variety of options at varying prices points and discounts.

Keep in mind: Many of the hotel and lodging discounts are calculated following the per diem rate in the Government & Military Per Diem Rate Qualification Guidelines.

These are some of the hotels and lodges offering special discounts to military members, their families, and veterans:

Military hotel discounts
Hotel	Discount	Details
Affinia Hotel Collection	Up to 25% Military families can save up to 25% on rooms and suites during the summer.	Book now for stays through September 4, 2017 using code SALUTE.
Atlantis Casino Resort & Spa	Up to 15% Active and retired military members can save up to 15% on room rates.	Present your valid Military ID upon check-in.
Baymont Inn & Suites	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.
Best Western	10% discount Military personnel, civilian military personnel, veterans, and American Legion members can save 10% or more on room rates.	Present an official identification card or work orders at time of check-in.
Cambria Hotels & Suites	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas	Additional 10% Active and retired military members and their families can save an additional 10% at participating Caesars Entertainment properties.	To confirm eligibility, click the button labeled Troop ID located under the search widget on reservations pages.
Circus Circus Las Vegas	Additional 10% Active or retired military members can save an additional 10% on room rates.	Book now for stays through June 30, 2018 using code NMILX37.
Clarion	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Comfort Inn	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Comfort Suites	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Country Inns & Suites	Discount varies Active military, veterans, and their spouses can receive special military rates when booking.	You must select or request the “Military rate” at the time the reservation is made to be eligible for this offer.
Courtyard by Marriott	Discount varies Military personnel can receive discounted rates following the Government and Military Per Diem Rate Qualification Guidelines.	To qualify for government per diem rates, guests must present a valid form of identification at check-in.
Days Inn	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.
DoubleTree by Hilton	Discount varies Military members can check the “Government/Military rates” box to receive special rates when booking.	You will be required to show your valid government identification upon check-in.
Disneyland Resorts	Discount varies Active and retired military guests can receive special rates until December 19, 2017.	Travel must be completed by December 20, 2017. Valid military ID will be required upon check-in and military member (or spouse) must stay in the room.
EconoLodge	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Embassy Suites by Hilton	Discount varies Military members can check the “Government/Military rates” box to receive special rates when booking.	You will be required to show your valid government identification upon check-in.
Extended Stay America	Up to 75% Receive rates at or below 75% of Per Diem.	Must stay consecutively for 31 nights or more on official travel.
Fairfield Inn & Suites	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Great Wolf Lodge	Up to 30% Active and retired military guests can save up to 30% on room rates.	Must present valid ID at check in for promotion to apply.
Hampton by Hilton	Discount varies Military members can check the “Government/Military rates” box to receive special rates when booking.	You will be required to show your valid government identification upon check-in.
Hawaiian Inn	Up to 25% Active and retired military guests can save up to 25% on room rates.	Please present your military ID at check-in.
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.
Hilton Garden Inn	Discount varies Military members can check the “Government/Military rates” box to receive special rates when booking.	You will be required to show your valid government identification upon check-in.
Holiday Inn	Discount varies Military personnel can receive discounted rates when booking.	To receive your discounted rate, present official ID or work orders when you check in.
Home2 Suites by Hilton	Discount varies Military members can check the “Government/Military rates” box to receive special rates when booking.	You will be required to show your valid government identification upon check-in.
Homewood Suites by Hilton	Discount varies Military members can check the “Government/Military rates” box to receive special rates when booking.	You will be required to show your valid government identification upon check-in.
Howard Johnson	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.
La Quinta Inns & Suites	12% discount Military personnel can save 12% on room rates when signing up for the La Quinta Returns Military Rewards program.	As a La Quinta Returns Military Rewards member, you’ll enjoy extra savings with your military discount and special recognition for your stays at La Quinta.
MainStay Suites	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Marriott	Discount varies Military personnel can receive discounted rates following the Government and Military Per Diem Rate Qualification Guidelines.	To qualify for government per diem rates, guests must present a valid form of identification at check-in.
Motel 6	Up to 10% Active and retired military guests can save up to 10% on room rates.	On the reservation page, select “Military” in the drop-down menu to receive your discount.
Quality Inn	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Radisson	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	You must book the Government Rate at the time of reservation and provide your Government ID card or Military Orders upon check-in.
Ramada Worldwide	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.
Red Lion	Up to 30% Active and retired military guests can save up to 30% on room rates at participating hotels.	Check for the exclusive military hotel rate when making reservations and present a valid military ID upon check-in.
Red Roof Inn	10% discount Active duty guests can save 10% on room rates during military official travel.	Use VP#606730 when booking to receive your 10% discount.
Rodeway Inn	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Sleep Inn	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Suburban	Discount varies Military personnel and their families can receive competitive government/military rates based on availability.	Hotel front desk personnel may require proof of eligibility at the time of check-in.
Super 8	15% discount Active and retired military members and their spouses can save 15% on room rates.	A valid military identification will be required at check-in.
Travelodge	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.
Walt Disney World Resorts	Discount varies Active and retired military guests can receive special rates until December 19, 2017.	Valid military ID will be required upon check-in and military member (or spouse) must stay in the room.
Wingate by Wyndham	Discount varies The government/military discount program at participating Wyndham Hotel Group hotels offers rates within the allowable per diem.	Be prepared to present valid identification at check-in.

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Rental cars & trucks

If you’re flying instead of driving, you’ll need some wheels to get around once you land. When it comes to renting a car or truck, your military ID can get you discounted rates, fee waivers, and more. Your specific offer may depend on the nature of your trip – official business and/or tour-of-duty orders, or leisure travel.

Keep in mind: If you’re under 25 years old, you may still be able to rent a car, but might have to pay a higher rate.

These are some of the rental car companies offering special discounts to military members, their families, and veterans:

Military rental car discounts
Company	Discount	Details
Alamo	Discount varies Military personnel, veterans, and family members will receive discounted rates when traveling for leisure. When traveling on duty, military personnel benefits include no additional driver fees, no underage driver fees, and collision damage waiver.	A government-issued credit card or official travel orders will be required for on-duty reservations. A military or government-issued ID may be required at time of pick up for all reservations.
Avis	Up to 25% U.S. military veterans, active duty military, National Guard, Reservists, and family can enroll in Veterans Advantage and receive up to 25% off.	Use discount code T765700 to save.
Budget	Up to 20% Military personnel traveling with orders can save 20% on truck rentals.	Use discount code USMIO to save.
Dollar Rent A Car	5% discount Active duty military, National Guard & Reserve, and their families who are Veterans Advantage members can receive a 5% discount, plus fee waivers for additional driver or underage driver.	To receive this discount, enroll in the Veterans Advantage program.
Hertz	Discount varies Military personnel will receive discounted rates, space available upgrades, and complimentary membership in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards.	You may be asked to show valid military photo ID.
Penske	Up to 20% Military personnel who book online will save 10% and then can show their military or veteran ID at pick-up to save another 10%.	Show your military or veteran ID when you pick up your truck to receive the additional savings.
Sixt Rent A Car	5% discount Military personnel can save 5% on all car rentals within the U.S.	Visit http://ift.tt/2wbQxNw to book with discount.

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Sightseeing & recreation

Now, it’s time for the fun part. Once you have the logistics squared away, it’s time to have fun – while saving some money. Whether you just want a thrill ride at a theme park, or to take in some culture in a museum, there’s something for everyone all across the country. Discounts on our list range from a dollar amount off to a percentage off.

Keep in mind: Some companies only offer a military discount to the military member themselves, while others are happy to extend a discount to the whole family.

These are some of the sightseeing and recreation companies offering special discounts to military members, their families, and veterans:

Military sightseeing & recreation discounts
Company	Location	Discount	Details
9/11 Memorial & Museum	New York City, NY	Free Active and retired U.S. military members get free admission with valid ID	Active and retired U.S. military members get free admission with valid ID. Valid military ID is required.
Beaches Resort	Negril, Jamaica; Providenciales, Turks & Caicos; and Ocho Rios, Jamaica	Additional 10% Active and retired military members and spouses can save an additional 10% on rates.	To book this offer, call 1-888-BEACHES. Proof of military identification or discharge certificate required upon check-in at the resort.
Big Surf Waterpark	Phoenix, AZ	Free Active military personnel get free and unlimited admission to the park. Immediate family members can save 20% on ticket prices.	Current military ID required to qualify and dependents must present ID as well.
Bronx Zoo	Bronx, NY	Free Free Total Experience Ticket or General Admission ticket and 50% off discount for up to three family members included on the same admissions transaction.	Discounted tickets are available with valid military ID at the admissions booths only, not through online ticket store.
Busch Gardens	Williamsburg, VA & Tampa, FL	Free One complimentary admission per year for military personnel and as many as three direct dependents through the Waves of Honor program.	The offer is valid for one SeaWorld Entertainment park (SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, or Sesame Place) and one visit only. Visit http://ift.tt/1OPn6As to claim your tickets.
Canaan Valley Resort	Davis, WV	Up to 20% Active and retired military members can receive 15% off accommodation rentals. Other discounts on recreational activities include 20% midweek discount, 10% weekend discount, and 10% off golf course and sporting clays.	Accommodation discounts offered on rooms, cabins, and cottages during non-holiday time periods. Military ID is required at time of payment for all discounts.
Carnegie Hall	New York City, NY	30% discount Active military personnel and veterans can save 30% on tickets to Carnegie Hall presentations (excluding galas and Weill Music Institute events).	Tickets can only be purchased in person at the box office.
Cedar Point	Sandusky, OH	Discount tickets & parking Active, retired, and honorably-discharged military members can get single day admission tickets for $43, plus $5 in parking discounts.	Proper ID required to validate. Up to six tickets may be purchased at discounted rate.
Charlotte Motor Speedway	Charlotte, NC	Up to 25% Military personnel can purchase tickets online with verification and save 15-25%.	To purchase tickets, visit http://ift.tt/2wc0R8k.
Colonial Williamsburg	Williamsburg, VA	Free Active military members receive one complimentary admission (self and up to three dependents) per year. Retired military and veterans qualify for 50% discount on single day tickets or annual passes.	Offer is valid for one visit only
Crayola Experience	Easton, PA; Minneapolis, MN; Orlando, FL; and Plano, TX	$3 discount Military members with a valid ID can get $3 off admission.	Show valid ID at the admissions desk to receive discount.
Disneyland	Anaheim, CA	Up to 40% Active and retired U.S. military members can get 4-day admission for $181 or 3-day admission for $156.	Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use. Tickets must be purchased by December 16, 2017. Tickets are valid until December 19, 2017.
Dollywood	Pigeon Forge, TN	30% discount U.S. active or retired military, disabled veterans, military reservists, spouses, and dependents can save 40% on 1-day tickets.	Valid military personnel IDs and dependent IDs must be presented.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon	Mount Vernon, VA	$3 discount Members of the military, veterans, and dependents are eligible for $3 off general admission prices.	Purchase tickets online via TroopID to verify military affiliation
Harley-Davidson Museum	Milwaukee, WI	$6 discount U.S. military members can purchase tickets for $14 with ID.	Valid military ID is required.
Hersheypark	Hershey, PA	$20 discount Save $20 on regular 1-day admission or save $4 on junior/senior admission with valid ID and printed coupon.	Valid military ID required. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. One discount coupon may be used to purchase up to eight admissions.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Complex	New York City, NY	Free U.S. military members and veterans receive free admission.	Valid ID is required. Tickets may be reserved online but must be held at the box office and picked up at will call.
International Spy Museum	Washington, DC	$6 discount Active duty military members and veterans can purchase general admission tickets for $15.95.	You may be asked to present a valid military ID.
The Kennedy Center	Washington, DC	50% discount The Kennedy Center and other participating presenters offer a limited number of tickets at 50% off box office price for enlisted military personnel.	Specially priced tickets are offered and sold on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability, to eligible patrons.
Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay	Louisville, KY	$20 discount Military members can get tickets for $29.95 plus tax.	Valid for one entry during the 2017 season. Can purchase up to 4 tickets per ID.
King’s Dominion	Doswell, VA	Ticket discount Active and retired military members can purchase discounted single day general admission tickets.	Up to six tickets can be purchased at the gate with valid military ID.
Knott’s Berry Farm	Buena Park, CA	$27 discount Purchase regular admission tickets for $48 at the gate with valid military ID. Valid military ID required.	Purchase tickets online through partner ID.me to save an additional $5.
Legoland California Resort	Carlsbad, CA	Up to 50% Active duty, Reserve, National Guard, retired service members, veterans, and families can receive special discounted prices on 1-, 2-, and 3-day tickets.	Verify your military service by entering your details into the Military Discount Verification Form at http://ift.tt/2xqGEdj.
Legoland Florida Resort	Winter Haven, FL	Free U.S. service members receive free admission at the ticket window. Non-active duty, family members, and veterans can get deeply discounted tickets at ITT offices or save 10% at the gate.	To redeem the active duty offer, bring a valid military ID to any LEGOLAND Florida Resort ticket window.
National Aquarium	Baltimore, MD	$5 discount Active military members and family can get tickets on site for $34.95. Discounted tickets can also be purchased through the local MWR/ITT office.	To get the best rate, check with your local MWR/ITT office. Present appropriate military ID to receive discount onsite.
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum	Cooperstown, NY	Free Active and career retired military members receive free admission.	You may be asked to present a valid military ID
National Parks	Multiple locations	Free Current U.S. military members and dependents can receive a free annual pass from the National Park Service.	Obtain your pass in person at a federal recreation site by showing a Common Access Card or Military ID.
Pro Football Hall of Fame	Canton, OH	Up to $5 discount U.S. active duty, including National Guard, Reservists, and retired military members get $5 off admission with valid ID. Spouses and dependents under 18 get $3 off.	Show a valid military ID at ticket office.
San Diego Zoo	San Diego, CA	Free Active duty military members receive complimentary 1-day pass with valid ID. Military spouses and dependents can save 10% on 1-day pass.	Valid military ID is required as well as ID for all dependents.
Sandals Resorts	Multiple locations throughout the Caribbean	Additional 10% Active and retired military members and spouses can save an additional 10% on rates.	To book this offer, call 1-888-SANDALS. Proof of military identification or discharge certificate required upon check-in at the resort.
SeaWorld	Orlando, FL; San Antonio, TX; and San Diego, CA	Free One complimentary admission per year for military personnel and as many as three direct dependents through the Waves of Honor program.	The offer is valid for one SeaWorld Entertainment park (SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, or Sesame Place) and one visit only. Visit http://ift.tt/1OPn6As to claim your tickets.
Sesame Place	Langhorne, PA	Free One complimentary admission per year for military personnel and as many as three direct dependents through the Waves of Honor program.	The offer is valid for one SeaWorld Entertainment park (SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, or Sesame Place) and one visit only. Visit http://ift.tt/1OPn6As to claim your tickets.
Six Flags	Multiple locations	20% discount Save 20% on 1-day general admission ticket at the Guest Services Center.	A military ID is required to receive the discount.
Universal Orlando Resort	Orlando, FL	Discount varies Specially priced tickets can be purchased through local Leisure Travel offices at military bases, or active duty military members with valid ID can get a discount on multi-day tickets at the front gate.	You must present your current military or Department of Defense identification at any participating ITT or LTS office on base.
Universal Studios Hollywood	Universal City, CA	Ticket discount Specially priced tickets are available for advance purchase through participating MWR/ITT offices in the U.S.	These special military rates are not available at the Universal Studios Hollywood box office. A military or U.S. Government I.D. is required for purchase.
Vail Resorts	Multiple locations in California, Colorado, and Utah	Ticket discount Several Vail resorts offer military discounts, including discounted military lift tickets.	Present your active military ID at the time of redemption or time of purchase.
Walt Disney World	Orlando, FL	Up to 40% Active and retired U.S. military members can get 5-day admission for $224 plus tax, or 4-day admission for $209 plus tax.	Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use. Tickets must be purchased by December 15, 2017. Tickets are valid until December 19, 2017.
Wild River Country	North Little Rock, AR	$5 discount Military members with valid ID can save $5 on regular and junior ticket prices.	Valid military ID is required
World of Coca-Cola	Atlanta, GA	Free Active duty and reserve members receive complimentary admission with valid military ID.	Valid military ID is required. Regular admission rates apply to family members and other guests.
Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun	Kansas City, MO	Ticket discount A discount off the front gate admission price is offered to military members and their families.	For additional military ticket options, call your ITR office to inquire about discount programs.

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Tips for planning your travel

As you can see, there are a lot of options when it comes to travel and military discounts. It’s easy to get overwhelmed while planning your trip. With a little research, patience, and some planning, you can make your next trip memorable and affordable!

Here are some tips for planning your travel.

Create a budget.

Before you start planning, determine what your budget is and how much you’re willing to spend. Knowing what you’re working with helps you better prepare and decrease temptation – just because tickets to something is discounted doesn’t mean it’s an event your family will enjoy.

Pro tip: You can use the USAA Rewards™ American Express® Card or a travel rewards credit card to earn points ahead of your trip and save even more money by redeeming them!

Dig into the details.

A company may offer a deep discount for the military member and then a much smaller discount for all dependents. Make sure you know this in advance by digging into all the details and fine print so you aren’t blindsided.

Compare your options.

As mentioned above, you may need to shop around to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible, whether it’s a military discount or not. Don’t be afraid to ask if there’s another option that’s better or if a company will price match.

Pro tip: Websites like Expedia, Kayak, Priceline, and more can help you compare costs across hundreds of travel sites.

Take care of business before leaving.

It’s a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary and lodging details with a loved one, let your credit card companies know you’re traveling, plan for someone to house sit or pet sit, and buy travel insurance.

Consider traveling during the “off-season.”

Many companies won’t offer discounts during the holidays because those are opportunities for high markup; however, each destination has an “on” and “off” season. If you travel during the “off-season,” you’ll get a discount on top of already low rates.

Pro tip: When planning your trip, keep an eye out for these three times when travel discounts aren’t quite as advantageous as they appear.

It may not seem fun to check on details and create an itinerary, but by putting in a little legwork upfront before you travel, you can sit back and relax during your trip knowing that everything is taken care of and you saved some money!

Resources

Aside from the companies listed in this guide, there are a number of resources you can consult when planning military travel for duty or leisure:

The American Legion – As the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, The American Legion provides members information and discounts for auto rental, finances, insurance, medical, moving and relocation, retail, travel, lodging, and more.
Blue Star Families – Through a variety of partnerships, the organization provides free resources, services, education and more to military families regarding family life, careers, moves, deployments, and communities.
Information, Tickets, and Travel (ITT) Offices – Your local military ITT office can alert you to discounts for hotels, car rentals, sporting events, movie tickets, theme parks, vacation packages, and more.
Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Services – Each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces has an MWR program that provides free or discounted recreation activities and tickets to military members and their families.
National Military Family Association – This private, nonprofit association carries out a number of programs to educate the public, including members of Congress, about the rights and benefits of military families.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – This department works to serve and honor America’s veterans through a variety of resources, patient care, and federal benefits for veterans and their families.
USAA – Military members and their families can become USAA members to receive competitive rates on banking, credit cards, insurance, and investment services.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – As a member of the VFW, you’ll have access to travel and recreation discounts as well as insurance programs, financial services, retail discounts, medical services, and more.