Military Benefits Club

Two Types of Military Travel Benefits

Military travel discounts fall into two buckets: commercial programs (hotels, airlines, car rentals with discounted rates open to any verified service member) and government-exclusive programs (Space-A flights, Armed Forces Recreation Centers, military lodges on installations). Commercial discounts are available to veterans and active duty alike; government programs are generally limited to active duty and retirees with valid ID.

Hotels: Military Rate vs. Government Rate

Most major hotel chains — Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Best Western, Choice Hotels — offer a military or government rate running 10–40% below standard pricing. Book directly through the hotel’s website and look for a “government” or “military” rate code. Marriott Bonvoy Military, IHG Military Rate, and Hilton’s government program often beat the standard government rate. Compare both before booking, and always ask at check-in whether a military rate applies — front desk agents can sometimes apply it on arrival.

Car Rentals

Enterprise, National, Hertz, Avis, and Budget all have year-round military discounts of 10–25%, verified through ID.me or military ID at the counter. Book online and enter your military discount code at checkout; the rate applies to most vehicle classes including larger SUVs and trucks useful during PCS moves.

Space-A Travel (Free Military Standby Flights)

Active duty service members and their dependents can fly standby on Air Mobility Command (AMC) flights at no cost — called Space-Available travel. Retired military and their dependents can fly Space-A with slightly lower priority. Register at a military terminal near you; flights aren’t guaranteed but can be a remarkable way to travel internationally for free.