11 Ways Retirees Save Big Money When They Travel

Photo of author

By Julia Jones

There’s no greater way to receive a discount than to ask for one. Did you know that numerous travel accommodations offer senior discounts for retirees beginning at age 50 and up? From discounted hotel rooms to building up travel rewards, here are some real ways to save big money when traveling in retirement.

1. Senior Car Rental Discounts

cheap-rental-cars
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Retirees can save money on car rentals from multiple car rental agencies. Some popular ones include:

  • Saving up to 35% off car rentals with Avis for AARP Members.
  • Travelers who are 50 and older enjoy 20% off base rates at Hertz.
  • AARP Members receive up to 35% off base rates and other benefits at Budget.

Another way to save money is to avoid overpaying for unnecessary insurance. Many policy owners have insurance that covers their rental vehicles. So, check with your carrier before adding an unwarranted extra expense that wastes money.

2. U.S. National Parks

Yellowstone-National-Park
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The America The Beautiful Senior Lifetime Pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and grants you unlimited access to all National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands in the country. There is an additional $10 handling charge if you order the pass online or by mail. The U.S. National Parks have some of the most scenic adventures you’ll ever explore and are worth every visit you can fit into your schedule.

3. Traveling During the Off-Peak Season

mature couple in Italy
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

This one is kind of a no-brainer, but traveling during off-peak season saves retirees significant money on trips. Plus, there is the added incentive of not dealing with the massive crowds, longer wait times and other inconveniences of traveling to hot spots during peak times.

4. Travel Rewards

Woman taking credit card from wallet
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Using travel reward credit cards is an excellent strategy for retirees who love to travel and want to save money. Earn airline miles, hotel points, or flexible issuer-specific currency to make your trip more affordable.

Many travel reward credit cards have offers like 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through their travel platforms. Some offer 3% back on dining and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. Shop around to see which card has perks that benefit your travel needs most, and start building up points before your next trip.

5. Discounted Hotels

hotel room at a disney timeshare
Image Credit: Disney Vacation Club/PRNewswire.

Remember to check out which hotels accommodate senior discounts before booking reservations. Here are some senior savings:

  • Travelers aged 65+ and their families can save up to 7% off the Best Available Rate* at participating Hilton locations on a maximum of two rooms.
  • Travelers 55+ save money with discounted room rates at participating Best Western Hotels & Resorts.
  • Marriott has a Senior Discount Program that offers discounted rates to guests 62 and older. 

Once people turn 50, they become eligible for a full membership with the American Association of Retired Persons, better known as the AARP. AARP offers many discounts in the travel and vacation industry, including on numerous hotels like Embassy Suites and Cambria Suites.

6. Discounted Flights

Norse-Airlines
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

While airlines don’t typically offer senior discounts across the board on all flights, many of them do feature discounts for seniors who ask or look for them. Here are some known airline discounts:

  • United Airlines offers a senior discount on select flights for people 65 and older. To determine eligibility, select “Senior 65+” when booking your ticket. Prices shown will include the discount if available.
  • Alaska Airlines offers 10% off tickets for seniors 65+ and one adult passenger accompanying them on selective routes only.
  • Delta Airlines offers senior discounts in specific markets. However, they aren’t available online. For eligibility, contact Delta directly.

Remember, other airlines like British Airways may offer travel discounts through AARP. So, never book flights without first checking there if you’re a member.

7. Restaurant Senior Discounts

Boomer woman eating in restaurant
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Restaurants are one of the easiest ways to score a senior discount. Many popular national chains, including Denny’s, IHOP, and Cracker Barrel, have senior menus. However, several others, including various fast food joints, offer discounts typically ranging from 10% to 15% off the check.

8. Senior Cruise Discounts

mature couple taking cruise map
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Retirees can enjoy discounts on select packages through various cruise lines. Here are the more popular offers:

  • Carnival has lower rate offers for retirees 55+. However, exact pricing depends on sail dates and destinations.
  • Royal Caribbean also gives discounted rates to seniors 55+ on select cruises.

Also, AARP members can save up to $100 per person on select trips through cruise lines, including Grand European Travel and Collette Cruise Tours.

9. Participate in Free Activities

Boomer couples on bicycle
Image Credit: Shutterstock

One way retirees can save big money when traveling, or even locally, is by attending free activities local to the areas they visit. Search “free activities near me” to uncover what opportunities exist nearby. One popular activity that is often free across the country is senior ballroom dancing classes.

10. Senior Train Discounts

senior-man-on-train
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Many discount opportunities exist for retirees riding the rails in the U.S. and Europe. Here are the best senior discounts on train travel:

  • Travelers 65+ enjoy 10% off most rail fares with Amtrak.
  • Grand Canyon Railway gives a 15% discount on train tickets for passengers 62 and older.
  • Seniors 60+ can purchase a Senior Pass for 10% off European train travel with Eurail Passes.

11. Senior Travel Groups

women friends Boomers retirees hang out
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Finding travel groups and travel clubs for retirees is perfect for finding incredible discounts, safety in numbers, and traveling companions in similar age groups with whom to share laughter and memories. Search “local travel groups for seniors” to see what is available in your area.

Top 14 Global Tourist Traps Travelers Warn You to Avoid (7 in the US)

Have you ever found yourself fighting crowds in a heavily trafficked tourist trap that wasn’t worth the hype? It can be both an overwhelming and underwhelming experience that costs far too much for something you’re not even enjoying. PhotoAiD recently compiled a list of the world’s biggest tourist traps. After asking survey participants which spots felt most “trappy?” Here are their top picks for overrated global tourist attractions.

Top 14 Global Tourist Traps Travelers Warn You to Avoid (7 in the US)

Is the U.S. on Track for Better Public Transit? Here are 11 Cities Americans are Banking On

One of the foundations of a thriving city is its ability to provide an efficient public transit system. For decades, the United States has lagged behind other countries in terms of transportation infrastructure and transit options, but as the country looks into the future, Americans in an online forum are looking ahead to what cities they believe will have the best chance of becoming transportation hubs in the coming decades.

Is the U.S. on Track for Better Public Transit? Here are 11 Cities Americans are Banking On

Survive Long Flights With These 10 Incredible Blockbusters That Make Time Fly

Nothing is worse than being stuck on a long flight without a good movie playlist to help pass the time quickly. These movies are some of my favorites and recommended downloads. They are guaranteed to grab and hold your attention, fend off boredom, and pass the time with ease and entertainment. Enjoy!

Survive Long Flights With These 10 Incredible Blockbusters That Make Time Fly

12 Things Plane Passengers Do That Makes Others Want Them Kicked Off Immediately

We’ve all seen short video content of unruly airplane passengers, but have you ever witnessed a live show? From putting feet on the back of the seat in front of you to non-stop walking the aisles, these are some of the most obnoxious behaviors that travelers wish passengers would be kicked off over.

12 Things Plane Passengers Do That Makes Others Want Them Kicked Off Immediately

Leave a Comment