If you are over 50 years old you may qualify for a travel discount. These discounts tend to range anywhere from 5% to 30%, but sometimes can be more. Depending on what your travel plans are you could save hundreds of dollars just by finding a few travel perks that are just for retirees.
Who Offers Discounts
Airlines- The airlines that offer discounts for retirees does vary. Certain major airlines like America, Delta and United do have senior fares, but they may be limited. Southwest does have fully refundable fares for those that are 65 or over.
Trains- For those retirees that want to travel by train they can enjoy a 10% discount if they are 65 or over. There is also a 10% discount for those that are over 60 and use cross border services.
Busses- Retirees that are 62 or older can receive a 5% discount on Greyhound busses.
Hotels- The majority of major hotels in the United States offer senior discounts. The amount will vary with each hotel chain. Those traveling internationally may also find a lot of discounts for retirees as well.
Cruises- Even retirees that want to go on a cruise can enjoy a discount on some major cruise lines. Both Carnival cruises and Royal Caribbean cruises offer a discount for those travelers that are 55 years of age or older.
How To Save
Just Ask- Many businesses that offer travel perks for retirees don’t advertise these types of discount. In order to get them, all a traveler has to do is ask if there is one available.
Club Memberships- Certain memberships that are popular among seniors, like AARP, offer all sorts of travel bargains for seniors. These types of memberships can cost $20 a year or less, but they are well worth the money spent.
Online- When making travel plans it’s not uncommon for booking websites to ask if you are above a certain age. Make sure you look for this option and check the appropriate box so that you can receive the correct discount.
Other Things To Keep In Mind
Retirees can often save money because they have a flexible schedule. They can easily book midweek flights, travel mid-season and adjust their travel plans so that they can take advantage of certain discounts. While perks are great, an additional way to save money is to be flexible with your travel plans as well.
