MARCH 6, 2025 – For many American military veterans, the dream of taking a well-deserved summer vacation can feel like a luxury that is simply too far out of reach. With limited budgets, managing the costs of travel, accommodations and activities can be overwhelming; however, there are a few key ways to make that seemingly unattainable dream vacation entirely more attainable, even on a tight budget.
Take Advantage of Military Discounts
One of the greatest financial advantages available to veterans is the wide array of military discounts you may not realize you have at your disposal. From lodging to transportation, attractions to restaurants, many businesses offer reduced rates to military personnel, both active duty and veterans. It’s imperative to take the time to research and make use of these discounts, as they can make the difference between your dream vacation being unaffordable and ready to happen. Many major hotel chains offer military discounts on room rates. National parks also frequently provide discounted or even free entry for veterans and their families. Even airlines offer special rates or baggage fee reductions for military personnel. The discounts extend to other places you might not expect: some in-demand amusement parks provide reduced ticket prices for veterans and their families. You may even want to see if there is a military base somewhat near your destination that may allow you to stay at a much lower cost than a local hotel.
To take full advantage of these savings, you ought to plan your trip by seeking out these military-specific deals in advance. If you don’t see anything about military discounts on websites for hotels, airlines or attractions, don’t hesitate to give them a direct call to inquire about veteran discounts: it never hurts to ask.
One can build a military discount profile at websites like GOVX, that allow you to centralize all of your military discounts in one place.
Outside of military-specific discounts, it’s also smart, when possible, to book travel and accommodations with the same providers each year, so you can save money over time through the accumulation of loyalty points.
Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the savviest ways to save money on vacation is to travel to popular destinations during their “off-seasons.” Many well-known vacation spots, like beaches; resorts; or national parks, see a surge in visitors during the summer months, which drives up prices for accommodations, flights, and activities.
Veterans who think they can’t afford these in-demand locations can actually make it happen for themselves by saving a considerable amount of money by going there in the off-season. This often means reduced public demand, lower prices on flights and hotels and the ability to enjoy a more relaxed experience, without the hustle and bustle of crowds.
Traveling to a coastal destination in early spring or fall can provide beautiful weather without the high prices associated with the peak summer months. If you’re set on traveling in the summer, look for destinations that experience their off-season during that time, such as mountainous regions or certain international regions. Booking in advance and keeping an eye on special promotions or last-minute deals can also help veterans save money. Flexibility with travel dates also allow you to shift your plans to secure those highly coveted low-priced options.
Allocate Vacation Money Early in the Year
A common financial mistake when it comes to vacations is waiting until the last minute to set aside the necessary funds for the trip. Instead of scrambling to find money for a vacation when the spring and summer roll around, veterans can benefit from planning their vacation budget at the outset of the year. By allocating a specific amount of money each month into a dedicated vacation fund, you can ease the financial burden when it’s time to book your trip; it’s already built-in to your overall budget.
One of the simplest ways to go about this is by creating a separate savings account labeled for vacation expenses. Then, set a monthly goal for how much you want to save. So, if your goal is to save $1,000 for a summer vacation, you could aim to save $85 a month. If you’re able to save a little more each month, you’ll have a cushion for unexpected costs or the ability to enjoy an upgrade in accommodations or activities. Financially planning ahead not only makes a vacation more feasible but also ensures you’re not dipping into emergency funds or relying on credit cards to cover the expenses. Be sure to keep track of the funds throughout the year and adjust your savings if necessary, depending on any changes in income or unexpected financial setbacks.
Keep Your Activities Budget-Friendly
Vacations are typically associated with sightseeing and exciting (and often expensive) activities. Veterans can keep costs down by planning budget-friendly activities. Many in-demand destinations offer free or inexpensive events, such as outdoor concerts, nature hikes, or community festivals; take advantage of these local offerings to enjoy the destination without overspending. Try a train or subway ride in a new city for cheap travel. If you’re up for it, a bicycle rental is another great way to get around without breaking the bank.
Another smart move is to explore local markets, historical landmarks, and parks rather than expensive tours or theme parks. Many national parks and outdoor attractions offer low-cost or free entry, especially for veterans. These kinds of places also often offer self-guided tours that are just as enjoyable as one with a professional guide, for only a fraction of the cost.
You may also want to consider a trip that doesn’t require expensive travel. Depending on where you live, there may be all sorts of interesting and exciting places to visit right under your nose, within driving distance. There’s no rule that says you need to hop on a plane to have a nice vacation.
Final Thoughts
Taking a summer vacation is actually more possible for veterans on tight budgets than they may realize. With a little foresight and planning, a lovely vacation is completely plausible. By utilizing military discounts, traveling during off-peak seasons, and allocating vacation money early in the year, veterans can significantly reduce the cost of a vacation. With the right strategies in place, you can enjoy a relaxing and affordable summer getaway without breaking the bank.
By Charlene Wilde, Senior Vice President of Operations at American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association