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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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