Money Saving Travel Tips for Service Veterans

Traveling is an amazing experience, but it can be expensive. However, transitioning service members and eligible Veterans have access to resources and perks that can help them fulfill their travel dreams and make the most of their vacation without overspending.

Here are some tips to help you save money on your next trip:

Start An Emergency Fund

An emergency fund acts as a safety net for unexpected expenses. With an emergency fund, you can protect your family's financial well-being while being able to say "yes" to opportunities like going on vacation. You can jumpstart your emergency fund with these tips.

Space-A Travel

Take advantage of Space-Available (Space-A) flights offered by the military. These flights allow military personnel and their families to fly on empty seats aboard military aircraft at minimal or no cost. Eligible disabled Veterans can also use Space-A now.  Learn about the eligibility requirements, restrictions, and covered destinations to make the most of this free opportunity.

Stay on Military Installations

Staying on military installations can be a cost-effective option for military and eligible Veterans. Military lodging facilities offer affordable rates and are often located in convenient locations. You can also take advantage of other amenities on base, such as commissaries, exchanges, and recreational facilities.

MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) Facilities and Discounts

Make the most of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities and discounts offered by military installations. These facilities often provide discounted tickets to local attractions, theme parks, and events. Additionally, MWR programs offer various recreational activities at reduced rates, such as golf, fitness centers, and outdoor rentals. You can enjoy local attractions while keeping your expenses in check.

Free National Park Passes

Nature lovers and adventure seekers can save money by taking advantage of the free annual America the Beautiful Pass provided by the National Park Service to active duty military personnel and their dependents, Gold Star Families, and Veterans. This pass grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and more. 

Travel Insurance

Military life can be unpredictable. In this case investing in travel insurance can save you a significant amount of money in case of unexpected events. Look for insurance providers that offer military-specific policies or discounts. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances, providing peace of mind during your travels.

Take Advantage of Military Discounts

Many hotels, attractions, restaurants, and other businesses offer special discounts or free goods and services for members of the Veteran community. Always ask if there is a military discount available before making a purchase. You can also check websites like GovX, Retail Salute and Military.com for military discounts.

Take the Veteran Saves Pledge today, the first step in creating your personal savings plan. We’ll send you tips, resources, and information that will help you reach your savings goals…like taking a vacation.