10 Tips for saving money when traveling for military families

Don’t miss these opportunities to save the next time you travel!
Kait Hanson Avatar

By Kait Hanson

Posted on Sep 7, 2024 8:52 AM PDT

Reviewed By Tessa Robinson

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The Comer family in the passenger terminal at Travis Air Force Base, Calif., wait to board a bus that will take them to an awaiting C-5 Galaxy heading to Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, on April 17. The family is making their way back to Kadena Air Base, Japan where they are stationed. Knowing some military aircraft are noisy inside, they have headsets for the smallest boys and earplugs for the others. This family used their "space available" air travel privilege to fly on what is primarily a cargo flight. The privilege of traveling on these flights come with positives such as zero air fare and negatives such as flight times that are set to support operational mission needs and movement of cargo and seating ranges from commercial airline seats to fold-out web bench seats. U.S. Air Force photo.

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There are plenty of amazing lists for how to save money when traveling, but let’s be honest – when you’re a military family, you can’t always book ahead, be flexible with travel dates, or travel during the off-season. Military life certainly comes with its own set of unique obstacles, but also affords plenty of opportunities, especially when traveling.

10 Tips for saving money when traveling for military families

Using these money-saving tips can help families maximize their travel experiences while staying within budget and still having an amazing trip.

Use Military Discounts

This one seems obvious, but it’s always worth the ask! Many airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and attractions offer military discounts. Always ask if a military discount is available before booking.

Fly Space A

Space Available (Space-A) flights allow military families to fly at little or no cost. It requires flexibility, but it’s a great way to save on airfare and there are plenty of social media groups that offer insider tips and tricks for getting a seat on any given flight.

Stay at Military Lodging

Consider staying at military lodging like Armed Forces Recreation Center Resorts. They often have affordable accommodations, and some are located in prime travel destinations, like Hawaii’s Hale Koa or Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in the Bavarian Alps.

Consider Using Armed Forces Vacation Club

The Armed Forces Vacation Club offers discounted vacation rentals worldwide for military families. Keep an eye out for special deals and promotions for locations you have on your radar.

Book Activities Through ITT/MWR Offices

Dana Collins, 100th Force Support Squadron Information, Tickets and Travel sales clerk from Panama City, Fla., researches a vacation destination for a customer Feb. 23, 2015, on RAF Mildenhall, England. The ITT serves all Department of Defense personnel, including active duty military and family members. The ITT moved location to share Bldg. 162 with outdoor recreation in order to better serve customers under one roof. (U.S. Air Force photo by Gina Randall/Released)

Check your base’s Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) or Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) office for discounted tickets for attractions, cruises, and tours. Often there is more availability and better deals than advertised!

Pack Light to Avoid Extra Fees

Airlines charge extra for baggage, so try to pack light. Military members often get free checked baggage, but it’s good to be aware of airline policies, and it’s not always valid unless you are traveling on official orders.

Sign Up for Travel Rewards Programs

Many airlines and hotels offer loyalty programs and military families who travel frequently can accumulate points for free flights, hotel stays, or upgrades. Don’t forget that yearly fees on high reward credit cards, like the American Express Platinum card, are also waived for active military families thanks to SCRA. With these cards you can enjoy perks like airport lounge access and airline credits each year.

Shop at Commissaries and Exchanges

When traveling near a military base, shopping at commissaries and exchanges can save money on food, clothing, and other essentials.

Use the TSA PreCheck Benefit

Active duty military members can use TSA PreCheck for free, which can save time and reduce stress at the airport.

Leverage Free Attractions

Research free or low-cost attractions at your destination. Many cities offer military families free or discounted admission to museums, parks, and historical sites – and don’t forget National Parks in the U.S. offer free admission for military families, veterans, and Gold Star families.