Airlines, hotels, theme parks and cruise lines offer a wide range of discounts to people who serve or have served in the U.S. military. ([1])Veterans Day falls on November 11, and many of these offers are available now, so the timing is useful. Eligibility, however, varies by company. Some perks are limited to active-duty personnel, while others extend to veterans, retirees and families.
Hotel rates can cut costs sharply
Some of the deepest reductions appear in hotel rooms. Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau offers its “Salute to Heroes” rate, which provides up to a 35% discount to active-duty service members and veterans. Other chains price their military rates at a more modest level, but they apply to a broader group of people, including retirees and family members.
The table below summarizes a few of the hotel offers described by The Points Guy. Each program has its own booking method and proof requirements, so travelers should confirm the details before reserving a room.
| Hotel brand | Offer | Who qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau | Up to 35% off | Active-duty members and veterans |
| B Hotels & Resorts | 15% off regular rates | Military members, veterans and families |
| Sandals and Beaches resorts | 10% discount | Eligible U.S. military members and veterans |
| Motel 6 and Studio 6 | 10% off standard rates | Active and retired military personnel |
Loyalty programs add another layer. Best Western’s Service Rewards program places qualifying members on automatic Gold status, while Wyndham enrolls eligible military personnel in Gold status when they join its rewards program.
Airfare discounts often require a phone call
Airlines tend to offer a mix of fare discounts, baggage allowances and boarding privileges, but many of the best prices are not posted online. Southwest Airlines and American Airlines, for example, direct military travelers to call or visit a ticket counter to book certain government or military fares. Delta Air Lines similarly offers discounted fares to active-duty service members who call its reservations line.
Baggage benefits can be substantial. Frontier allows active-duty armed forces members, National Guard and Reserve personnel, and their accompanying spouses and children to bring a free carry-on bag, two free checked bags and one free personal item. Allegiant gives active-duty and reserve members, veterans, National Guard members and their dependents up to two free checked bags. Travelers who plan to check more luggage should review each carrier’s terms, since weight and size limits still apply.
Theme parks and attractions reach beyond ticket booths
Theme parks have also built military programs, and some of them are tied to specific dates. Universal Orlando’s Military Freedom Pass begins at $220 for unlimited admission through December 18, 2026, although blackout dates apply. Disneyland sells discounted military promotional tickets, with prices starting at $98, but buyers must purchase them at a participating base ticket office or through an authorized online channel.
Historic sites are part of the picture as well. George Washington’s Mount Vernon grants free admission to active-duty, former and retired military personnel every Veterans Day, and visitors can place a flower on General Washington’s tomb as part of an annual tribute. Amtrak also gives active-duty personnel, spouses and dependents a 10% discount on the lowest available fare in select fare classes.
Cruise lines and ski resorts add longer-term value
Cruise lines tend to offer some of the most generous packages. Disney Cruise Line is providing a $250 onboard credit to eligible U.S. military personnel on select Disney Wish and Disney Dream sailings in 2026, a promotion tied to America’s 250th anniversary. Princess Cruises offers veterans and active, retired and disabled military personnel up to $250 in onboard spending money on select sailings.
Outside the cruise sector, Vail Resorts sells Epic Military Passes for active-duty members, retired personnel and veterans, with prices starting at $230 for unlimited skiing at more than 40 resorts. The pass is an example of how the military discount has moved well beyond hotels and airline seats.
Proof of service can determine the savings
Because these programs differ so widely, a discount that applies to one traveler may not apply to a spouse, a veteran or a retiree. Many airlines, hotels and other businesses ask for proof of eligibility before they apply a rate. Travelers should carry a military ID, veteran ID, dependent ID or orders, depending on the offer.
Taken together, the travel industry’s military programs reward a broad community of current and former service members. Anyone planning a trip around Veterans Day or the holiday season should review the eligibility rules early, because a few minutes of research can determine whether a discount is available at checkout.
