Hale Koa a Military Resort Review

I’m standing on Waikiki Beach to take this picture of the hotel. All the hotel rooms are located in that tower.

Waikiki Beach – Check out the older people standing behind my daughter.  I guess they were taking a picture of Christmas cards or maybe they just love Santa hats.

The top balcony on the corner in this picture was ours. As you can see the balconies are a nice size.

The adults-only pool. We never got to enjoy this pool, but it looked very nice and was quiet.

View from our room.

Part of one of the big pools.

The resort is right on the beach. Here’s the public beach out in front of the hotel. They do not have any private beach but as far as I know all the beaches in Waikiki are public. So, this isn’t unusual. It’s never been crowded when I am here.

Read Next:

Stay at Bellows Beach in a Bellows AFB Cabins

Military Lodging at Joint Base Pearl Harbor & Hickam

The post Hale Koa a Military Resort on Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii appeared first on Mommy Travels.

1) Research the country

Before you make any major decisions, it’s important to do your research on the country you’re moving to. This means finding out information about the culture and language, as well as exploring its economy and job opportunities. It’s also wise to look into healthcare systems, housing availability, education options for your children, and transportation options in the area. All of this will help you decide if a move abroad is right for your family.

In addition, it’s important to consult with an Immigration Lawyer and find out what kind of visas you may need and if there are any financial requirements for the move. Knowing this information upfront can help you plan better and make more informed decisions.

2) Create a budget

Moving abroad requires money, so it’s crucial that you create a budget before you start planning your move. This will include costs associated with packing, flights, shipping items, and finding a place to stay when you first arrive. It will also include living expenses such as rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.

Creating a realistic budget is essential because it allows you to get an accurate idea of how much money you’ll need for the move and gives you something to work towards saving. Remember, it’s also important to set aside some money for emergency situations.

3) Find the right home

Once you know where you’ll be living and how much money you have to work with, it’s time to find a place for your family. This can be a challenging process, especially if you don’t speak the language of the country. However, it can help to hire an agent or use online resources such as websites that specialize in international real estate.

If possible, visit ahead of time so that you can get a better feel for different neighborhoods and properties. In addition, make sure to read up on local laws regarding renting or buying property before signing anything.

Also, be sure to consider things such as how long it will take you to get from your home to work or school, access to grocery stores and other amenities, and proximity to public transportation or highways.

4) Pack thoughtfully

When moving abroad, it’s important to pack smart. Though packing can be a tedious task, taking the time to plan ahead will help make a move easier. Start by making a list of items that you absolutely need for your new life abroad. This should include essential documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.), clothing and toiletries, furniture if you’re bringing any with you, medications, and electronics like laptops or phones.

Additionally, keep in mind any cultural differences you may encounter, such as different electrical outlets or language barriers. Finally, if you’re shipping items overseas, make sure to get an estimate of costs and decide what will be shipped and what will be left behind.

5) Prepare your family

Finally, moving abroad requires understanding from the whole family. Talk to them about the move and help explain why it is important for everyone to adjust to the new culture and environment.

If possible, try introducing your children to people in the country before you move so that they can start forming relationships right away. In addition, look into schools in the area or other activities that can help ease their transition.

Bonus Tip: Connect with people who have been in your shoes

Moving abroad can be intimidating, so it helps to connect with those who share the same experience. Seek out others who have made a similar move either in person or online. They can provide valuable advice and encouragement throughout the process of settling in. Plus, they may even become lifelong friends! The more connected you are with expatriates from different countries, the easier it will be for you and your family to adjust to your new life abroad. So don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help!

In conclusion, moving your family abroad is an exciting yet daunting experience that requires careful planning and preparation. From understanding the local laws and customs of a country to creating a budget and packing smartly, these five tips can help ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible. With patience and determination, you can make sure that everyone in your family adjusts quickly and enjoys their new home abroad.

Read Next:

Tips for Moving Internationally

Achieving Balance During a Military Move

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This morning, November 2nd, they announced the launch of its first-ever Military Appreciation Program to recognize active and retired U.S. military members, and their spouses, with special onboard experiences, amenities, and cruise fare discounts on all 18 of their ships.

10% Military Discount on Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL’s Military Appreciation Program allows all active duty, retired military veterans, and their spouses a 10% discount on their cruise fare for all sailings beginning on Jan. 1, 2023. You can book a cruise now and as long as it sails after the beginning of next year you can get your discount. 

This ongoing offer can be combined with the Company’s guest-favorite Free At Sea offer, which provides guests the opportunity to design their dream vacation with free airfare, unlimited open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and more. The Free at Sea can end up being up to an additional savings of $3,450.

In addition to the 10% discount, guests who book under the Military Appreciation Program will also receive exclusive experiences and recognition on board, including a welcome reception and special amenities such as a collectible military challenge coin, pins to designate program participation, and collectible patches customized for each ship in the NCL fleet.

How to Get the Military Discount on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Service men and women will be validated through ID.me, a secure digital identity network that allows active and retired U.S. military members to verify their identity once, and never have to re-verify their identity again across any organization where ID.me is accepted. Those already registered with ID.me will be one step closer to booking their deserved cruise vacation under the Military Appreciation Program. Chances are high you already have one of these accounts, since it’s used by lots of other companies. 

What Our Family Thinks of Norwegian Cruise Line

You may recall that we have sailed on the Norwegian before when they launched the Bliss and had a fabulous time. We liked that we could show up to eat whenever we wanted at almost any restaurant. We don’t mind sticking to a schedule but prefer the freedom to be flexible depending on what we are up too. To see our full review of that ship check out: Norwegian Bliss: Fun for the Whole Family

Read Next:

4 Tips for Planning a Cruise Holiday with Kids

World’s Best Cruising Destinations

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Military Discount appeared first on Mommy Travels.

This is a website developed by Priceline and the Department of Defense.

American Forces Travel Eligibility

The great news is millions are eligible including all active duty military personnel, retired military members, honorably discharged veterans and DOD civilians.

The website is super easy to use. To access the site it will ask you some basic info like the last four of your social security number, birthdate, and last name. It only takes a few seconds for the system to verify you. Once you are verified you can start using the website right away. 

Military Star Card Accepted

If you are booking a hotel you may be able to use your Military Star Card to book it. There are many global hotel brands that will accept it when booking through American Forces Travel. Note that only eligible hotels will have MILITARY STAR as a payment option at checkout. If there’s no option while booking it means that particular hotel is not participating in this part of the program at this time. 

How Much Savings

You can expect to save a little on everything, but there are also some really big discounts where you can save up to 40 – 60% off.

Discounted Airfare

I booked a last minute flight last week to go meet my new niece and saved $200! This was a savings of around 30%. The site is really robust and found two cheaper one way tickets that I could buy instead of a more expensive round trip ticket. Considering there was basically no way to save on airfare before the launch of this site this is HUGE!  

While I was booking my flight it did ask me to input my frequent flyer number so I am still earning points on my flight!

Discounted Hotels

I looked up some hotels in Houston recently and I could save around $50 a night on the hotel we wanted to stay at. The discount varies depending on the city and time of year, but to me $50 is fantastic.

When you arrive at the hotel you will not be required to show id since the system that allowed you to book your travel has already vetted you. 

If you need to bring your pet or service animal you can sort by specific amenities to include pet-friendly hotels.

Discounted Car Rentals

Considering there is a nationwide shortage of rental cars in the United States any savings at all will make a difference right now!

Discounted Vacation Packages

You know we love Cancun, so I went ahead and priced out a hypothetical last minute trip to Cancun in a few weeks for our family including airfare and an all-inclusive hotel to see what it would cost. I felt good about the prices it showed me. After so many trips down there I am familiar with the prices but I went a step further to check the regular rates of the same exact stay. Using AmericanForcesTravel.com I would save $54 per person on this trip. Times that by a large family and that’s a couple of hundred bucks in savings! (There are many all-inclusive hotels included which is definitely the way to go down there if you can swing the cost. If not there were many regular hotels available as well.)

Discounted Event Tickets

They even offer discount event tickets. These are not major events but the smaller more locally known events. So if you are headed to an event it would be worth checking to see if they offer a discount. I checked to see if they had any major concerts but didn’t see any.

Money is Reinvested Into Military Programs

One of the unique elements of this program is that it gives back to the military. They take a percentage of each booking and send the funds back into military programs like MWR programs. (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) The purpose of the program is to help service members refresh and reconnect with loved ones which is also one of the goals of the MWR program. 

If you are not familiar with the MWR program where you are stationed I highly recommend checking it out. They often have a variety of offerings whether it be fun rentals like kayaks or tours like a day excursion to do something cool nearby for a discounted price. 

The post American Forces Travel appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Universal Orlando is still offering a military discount, but it is a different offer than it was a few years ago. Now, military personnel can purchase various types of tickets depending on what their base offers.

I really cannot emphasize enough what a great deal this is. We always try to cram everything in all in one day, but with all the new stuff that has been added to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, you really do need at least two days here. Plus, with the addition of Volcano Bay water park, I recommend three days.

Most base Leisure Travel offices offer a variety of the ticket options below:

Base Tickets
This access type allows access to either Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, or Universal’s Volcano Bay™ (Now Open) each day you visit. 1-Day through 5-Day tickets available. A one-day base ticket is running $85 for military members.

2-Park Tickets
This access type allows access to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida each day you visit. 1-Day through 5-Day tickets available. A two-day, two-park ticket is $199.

3-Park Tickets
This ticket allows access to Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, and Universal’s Volcano Bay each day of your visit. 

Who is Eligible For Universal’s Military Discounts

Where to Get Universal Military Tickets

Special Military Universal Orlando Vacation Packages Available  

Active duty and retired military personnel can make it a special vacation by adding a stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package starting at $139 per adult, tax inclusive with valid military identification. About 40% off the hotel.

Universal Military Vacation Packages May Include

• 3-Night Hotel Accommodations
• 3-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Military Promotional Ticket to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay
• Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens (Valid theme park admission required).
• Access to select live entertainment venues at Universal CityWalk

To book your vacation, call 1-888-340-4614 or visit your military base ticket office.

Special active duty and retired military package rates are also available at Universal Orlando’s additional resort hotels, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and select Universal Partner Hotels. Discounts vary depending on which place you stay, but typically it’s always at least 30% off. 

Read Next:

How to Take a Military Hop aka Military Flight and Fly for Free

Sea World Military Discount

The post Universal Orlando Military Discount appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Bellows Beach Cabins

One of the many military lodgings available in Oahu, Hawaii is Bellows Air Force Base cabins on Bellows Beach. The cabins are not a five-star military resort like the Hale Koa over in Waikiki, but they do have their very own 3-mile long private beach!

Bellows AFB has 109 beach-side cabins, eight air-conditioned condo units, 55 family campsites, 10 cedar camper cabins, and two recreational vehicle sites on Waimanalo bay just north of Waimanalo Beach. 

The main draw for us staying here was the private beach for the military only. The beach that runs along Bellows AFB is not open to the public. To stay on a beach with turquoise water, in Hawaii, for super cheap, and avoid the typical crowd. 

The price is based on rank. I believe we paid around $80 a night for this cabin. They did have cheaper, smaller cabins available. Update 2019: These cabins now cost $105 per night, which is still an extremely good price.

Turtle Cove Recreation Center

The cabin was right on the beach of Turtle Cove. The Turtle Cove Recreation Center has everything you need to have a good trip. Here you can rent boogie boards, kayaks, snorkels, bicycles, basketballs, volleyballs, or other equipment.

The boogie boarding on this beach was quite good. Granted, it was extremely windy the days we stayed there, which meant the boogie boarding was excellent. We stayed in November.

Pictures of Bellows AFB Beach Cabins

Bellows Air Station has a weekly activity program with a kayaking tour, history tours, and yoga on the beach. They offer lessons too, like ukelele, lei making, and hula lessons.

Also on base are tennis courts, basketball courts, miniature golfing, and a driving range. 

Bellows Beach FAQs

Where can I make a reservation?

https://bellowsafs.com/policies/

What time is check-in?

Check-in: 3 pm/Check-out: 11 am

Can I pick out which cabin I stay in?

No.

Can non-military visit Bellows Beach?

Bellows beach is open to civilians on Saturday and Sunday only. 

Can you drink alcohol on Bellows Beach?

Not really. Alcoholic beverages may NOT be consumed past the tree line on any portion of Bellows Beach. Pavilion/campsite/cabin guests may bring their own alcohol to be consumed in their rented space. So if you are staying in one of the cabins you can drink at your cabin. 

Read Next:

Military Lodging at Joint Base Pearl Harbor &  Hickam

How to Take a Military Hop aka Military Flight and Fly for Free

Shades of Green – Disney’s Military Resort

Oahu Travel Guide

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Veteran’s Day Discounts

For all of you that can go out to grab the freebies, here’s a list. Keep in mind that restaurant chains always advise calling ahead to specific locations, because not all franchises honor the specials offered by their parent organizations.

Veteran’s Day Discounts at Restaurants

We usually go over to McCormick and Schmick’s because they have a free meal for vets and a special menu that the rest of the family can order off of. This reduces the cost of eating there, making it affordable for a military family.

7-Eleven — Active-duty, retired, veteran, guard, reservists, and family members get a free coffee or Big Gulp on November 11. (7-Eleven app and Veterans Advantage membership required.)

151 Coffee — Military personnel are invited to bring your family for free drinks on November 11.

54th Street Grill — Veterans and active-duty military get a free entree up to $12 on November 11.

Ahipoki — Veterans and active-duty military receive 50% off any bowl at all locations across Arizona and California on November 11. 

Another Broken Egg Cafe — Veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy a free Patriot French Toast Combo and coffee on November 11. This is one of our favorite restaurants in Panama City Beach. They have other locations too.

Applebee’s — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from a special menu on November 11.

Aspen Creek Grill — Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary meal from a special menu from 11 a.m. to close on November 11.

Bagger Dave’s — Active, non-active, reservists and retired personnel get a free Great American Cheeseburger and Fries.

Bakers Square — Active-duty military and veterans can enjoy a free meal.

Bandana’s BBQ — Veterans and active-duty military eat free (up to $10) on November 11.

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s — Veterans will be offered a free meal with purchase of equal or greater value up to $10 on November 11. 

BIBIBOP Asian Grill — Veterans and active-duty military get a free bowl.

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse — On November 11, all current and former military members who dine-in receive a free entree up to $14.95 plus a free Dr Pepper beverage.

Black Angus Steakhouse — Veterans and active-duty military get a Veterans Day plate for $9.99 on November 11.

Bob Evans — Veterans and active-duty military personnel receive a free meal from a select menu on November 11.

Bombshells Restaurant and Bar — Veterans and active-duty military get free meals and soft drinks and a 20% discount for accompanying family members on November 11.

Bonefish Grill – Free appetizer with purchase of an entree with valid military ID for active duty service people and veterans on Veterans Day 2019 at all locations.

Brick House Tavern + Tap — Veterans get 20% off on November 11.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. — Military personnel and their families receive 20% off on food and retail purchases on November 11.

Buffalo Wings & Rings — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free “Pick 2” Lunch Combo on November 11 between 11 am and 3 pm.

Burntwood Tavern — Veterans and active military get a free lunch or dinner on November 11.

Calhoun’s — Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal on November 11.

California Pizza Kitchen – Veterans and active-duty military receive a complimentary meal from a special menu on November 11.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill – Free calamari with a purchase with valid ID for active duty military and veterans. The Italian eatery also offers a special ongoing 10 percent Heroes Discount for all servicemen and women, police officers, firefighters and first responders on Nov. 12, 2019.

Cattlemens — Active, inactive, and retired military personnel get a complimentary 8 oz. Sirloin Steak dinner on November 11.

CentraArchy Restaurants — Veterans and active-duty service members get a free entrée on November 11.

Chicken Salad Chick — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military will receive a free Chick Special and Regular Drink.

Chili’s — Veterans and active military service members get a free meal from a select menu on November 11.

Chipotle — Active-duty military, reserves, national guard, military spouses, and retired military get a buy-one-get-one (BOGO.

Chop House — On November 11, active-duty and retired service members get 50% off any dine-in lunch or dinner entree.

Cicis Pizza — Active and retired military get a free unlimited buffet on November 11.

City Barbecue — Veterans and active-duty military get a free sandwich, two sides, and a regular beverage on November 11.

Claim Jumper — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military get a free entree up to $15 from a special menu.

Coffee Beanery — Veterans and active-duty military get a free tall cup of fresh brewed coffee all day on November 11.

Connors Steak & Seafood — On November 11, active-duty and retired service members get 50% off any dine-in lunch or dinner entree.

Cotton Patch Cafe — Veterans and active-duty military get a free chicken fried steak or chicken fried chicken on November 11.

Country Cookin — Active, reserve, retired, and honorably discharged members of the military receive a free salad bar or $5 off any entree on November 11 when showing a valid military ID and filling out the service card.

Country Kitchen — Active and retired military get a free Country Scramble on November 11 at participating locations.

Cracker Barrel — Veterans get a complimentary slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake or a Pumpkin Pie Latte on November 11.

Crooked Pint Ale House — Veterans and active-duty military get a free menu item on November 11 at participating locations.

Cumberland Farms — Veterans, active-duty, reserve, National Guard or honorably discharged military personnel get a free coffee on November 11.

Denny’s — Veterans and military personnel get a free Build Your Own Grand Slam on November 11, from 5 a.m. to noon.

Dunkin’ Donuts — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military receive a free donut at participating locations.

East Coast Wings + Grill — Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a selected menu.

Eat’n Park — All former and current military personnel will receive a 10% discount for the entire month of November.

Egg Harbor Cafe — Veterans and active military get a free meal on.

El Chico — Veterans and active-duty military get a free entree.

Emmet’s Social Table — Veterans and troops get a free meal on November 10 and 11.

Famous Dave’s — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel will receive a free 2 Meat Salute.

Farmer Boys — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Big Cheese cheeseburger on November 11.

Fatz Cafe — Veterans and active military get a free World Famous Calabash Chicken basket on November 11. And from November 1 through 30, veterans and active military members will receive 20% off their entrée.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill — Dine with a veteran or active-duty service member on November 11 and their lunch or dinner is free.

Fogo de Chão — Veterans will receive 50% off their meal, plus an additional 10% off for up to three guests, November 8 through 11.

Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers — Veterans and current military personnel get a free combo meal card on November 11 that can used until November 30, 2019.

Friendly’s — Veterans and active-duty military get a free breakfast, lunch or dinner from a limited menu on November 11.

Friendly Toast — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel receive a free meal.

Furr’s Fresh Buffet — On November 11, veterans get a free buffet plus a non-bottled beverage at participating restaurants.

Glory Days Grill — Veterans get a free appetizer or a regular order of boneless wings.

Gold Star Chili — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free 3-Way & drink.

Golden Corral — Golden Corral Restaurants’ Military Appreciation Night free dinner will be available on November 11, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Military retirees, veterans, active-duty, National Guard and Reserves are all welcome.

Gordon Biersch — Veterans receive a free entrée from a select menu.

Green Mill Restaurant and Bar — Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal.

Greene Turtle — Current service members and veterans get a complimentary $14 meal.

Grillsmith — Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary entrée.

Grub Burger Bar — Active, inactive and retired military personnel get a complimentary entree on November 11 at all locations.

Hamburger Stand — Veterans and active-duty military get a free hamburger, regular fries and a small Pepsi.

Hickory Tavern — Veterans and active-duty military get a free ‘Merica’s Burger on November 11 with the purchase of a beverage.

HomeTown Buffet — On November 11, veterans get a free buffet plus a non-bottled beverage at participating restaurants.

Hooters — Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a select menu at participating locations..

Houlihan’s — Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary meal from a select menu.

Huddle House — Active-duty, retired, and veteran military members get a free order of Sweet Cakes November 8 through 11.

Hy-Vee — Veterans and active-duty military members get a free breakfast from 6 to 11 a.m. 

IHOP — Veterans and active-duty military get a free red, white, and blueberry pancake combo on November 11 at participating locations. They typically offer a 10% military discount every day. 

J. Christopher’s –Veterans get a free meal at participating locations.

Joe’s Crab Shack — Veterans receive 20% off at participating locations on November 11.

K&W Cafeterias — Veterans and active-duty get a free meal on November 11 from 11 am until closing.

Kolache Factory — Veterans and active-duty military get a free sausage and cheese kolache and a free coffee (any size) at all its locations on November 11.

Kwik Fill — Veterans receive a free coffee on November 11.

LaMar’s Donuts — Veterans and active-duty military get a free donut and 12 oz. coffee at participating locations on November 11.

Little Caesars — Veterans and active military members receive a free $5 HOT-N-READY Lunch Comb from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 11.

Logan’s Roadhouse — On November 11 between 3 and 6 pm, veterans and military personnel receive a free meal from the American Roadhouse menu.

Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ — During the month of November, active-duty and veteran military personnel get 20% off. On November 11, active-duty military and veterans get a free dessert.

Lucky Girl Brewing — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free pulled pork or brisket sandwich with a side at Lucky Girl Brewing or a free flat-bread pizza at B52 Winery on November 9, 10, and 11.

Luna Grill — Active-duty military and veterans get a “Buy One, Get One Free” deal November 9 through 11. 

Macaroni Grill — Veterans and active military receive a free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs + Spaghetti on November 11.

Main Event —  Veterans and active-duty military receive 30 minutes of game play that can be used on more than 100 interactive video games and a free entrée from a special menu.

Manhattan Bagel Company — All active, former and retired military personnel get a free bagel and cream cheese at participating locations on November 11.

Max & Erma’s – Veterans and active-duty military get a free Cheeseburger, Endless Fries and Fountain Drink on November 11 at participating locations.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants — Veterans, National Guard, Gold Star parents and Gold Star spouses can enjoy a free entrée from a special menu on November 10.

Memoz – Free baked to order cookies and mix-ins all day to active duty, reserve, or retired military personnel. Located at 3494 N. Williams Ave. Portland, OR 97227. 

Menchie’s — Veterans and active-duty military will receive their first six ounces free on November 11.

Mission BBQ — Veterans and active-duty military get a free sandwich and cake on November 11.

Native Grill & Wings — Veterans receive a free entrée up to $11.99 on November 11.

Ninety Nine Restaurant and Pub — On November 11 from 11 am to 4 pm, veterans and active military get a free lunch from a select menu with purchase of an entree.

O’Charley’s – Active-duty military and veterans can enjoy a free meal on November 11. 

Old Country Buffet — On November 11, veterans get a free buffet plus a non-bottled beverage at participating restaurants.

On the Border — On November 11, active and retired service members receive a free meal from a select menu at participating locations.

Orange Leaf — Retired and active-duty military receive free froyo at participating locations on November 11.

Otter’s Chicken — Active, Guard/Reserve, retirees and former service members get a free meal at participating locations.

Outback Steakhouse — Veterans get 20% off November 8 through 11.

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille — Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary 3-course pork chop dinner on November 10 from 4 to 9 p.m. Each veteran must be accompanied by at least one guest who purchases an entree or Sunday Supper Special.

Pilot Flying J — Active-duty military and veterans get a free hot beverage and breakfast item in stores November 8 through 11 through a special offer in the app.

Price Chopper Supermarkets — Veterans, active-duty, reserve and national guard military get a free 12oz. Coffee & Donut on November 11.

Primanti Bros. — Active or retired military can enjoy a free Primanti Bros. Almost Famous sandwich November 10 and 11.

Quaker Steak & Lube — Veterans, active-duty and Reservist service members get free or discounted meals at participating locations on November 11.

RA Sushi — Veterans, active and retired military can enjoy a complimentary shareable on November 11, available all day.

Red Lobster — Veterans, active-duty military and reservists get a free appetizer or dessert from a select menu on November 11.

Red Robin – Veterans and active-duty military get a free Tavern Double Burger with Bottomless Steak Fries on November 11.

Rock and Brews — Veterans and active military personnel receive a complimentary pulled pork sandwich or salad on November 11.

Rodizio Grill — Veterans eat free November 11 through 14 with the purchase of at least one Adult Full Rodizio meal at participating locations.

Rubio’s Coastal Grill — Get a buy one entree get one free deal on November 11 with coupon and military ID.

Ryan’s — On November 11, veterans get a free buffet plus a non-bottled beverage at participating restaurants.

Sagebrush Steakhouse — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from a select menu on November 11.

Sauce Pizza & Wine –  All locations will honor veterans with 25% off their bill.

Scooter’s Coffee — Veterans and current military personnel get a free drink of any size.

Shane’s Rib Shack — Active-duty military and veterans get a free sandwich, regular side, and 20-oz. beverage November 11 through 13 at participating locations.

Sheetz — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel get a free 6 inch turkey sub and a regular size fountain drink. Sheetz locations offering car washes will also provide a free car wash to veterans and active-duty military.

Shoney’s — Veterans and active-duty military service members get a free All You Care To Eat, Freshly Prepared Breakfast Bar on November 11 until 11 am.

Smashburger — Veterans and active-duty military get a free double burger on November 11 with any purchase.

Smokey Bones — Veterans and active-duty military get a free dessert from a select menu on November 11.

Smoothie King — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military get a free 20 oz. smoothie.

Sonny’s BBQ — Veterans and active-duty military get a free Pulled or Sliced Pork Big Deal combo on November 11.

Spaghetti Warehouse — From November 9 through 11, buy one entrée and get the second entrée free. Coupon required.

Starbucks — Veterans, active-duty service members and military spouses get a free tall (12 fl oz) brewed coffee, at participating stores.

Tap House Grill — Active, inactive and retired military personnel get a free meal on November 11.

TCBY — Veterans and active military personnel get their first 6 oz. of frozen yogurt for free on November 11 with valid proof of service at participating locations. 

Texas de Brazil — Veterans receive 50% off dinner November 11 through 13 during dinner hours. I ate here once in Addison, Texas and it was amazing!

Texas Roadhouse — Veterans and active-duty military get a free lunch on November 11 from 11 am to 4 pm.

Texas Steakhouse and Saloon — Veterans get a free meal from a select menu.

TooJay’s — Veterans and active-duty military get a free entree from a special menu.

TravelCenters of America — Active-duty military, veterans and reservists get a complimentary meal on November 11 at participating Country Pride and Iron Skillet restaurants nationwide.

Tucanos Brazilian Grill — Veterans get a free Churrasco meal with the purchase of another Churrasco meal, November 8 through 12.

Twin Peaks — Veterans, active-duty military and reservists will eat for free from a select menu. The only town I’ve ever seen a Twin Peaks in is Odessa, Texas. 

Village Inn — Active-duty military and veterans can enjoy a free meal.

White Castle — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Combo Meal or Breakfast Combo Meal.

Wienerschnitzel — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Chili Dog, small fries and a drink on November 11.

Wild Wing Cafe — Veterans get 6 wings or nuggets in your favorite sauce with a purchase of a drink on November 11 at participating locations.

WingHouse Bar & Grill — Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal from a select menu at participating locations. Beverage purchase required.

Yard House — Veterans and active-duty military receive a complimentary appetizer.

Ziggi’s Coffee — Veterans get a free 16 oz. drink.

Veteran’s Day Discounts at Stores

Academy Sports + Outdoors — Veterans, active-duty service members and their immediate family members get 10% off their entire purchase in-store and online from October 27 through November 11.

Alpine Rings — Active duty, guard/reserve, veterans, retirees, and their families receive 30% off any purchase made between November 7 through 12.

Amazon.com – Now through Nov. 11, veterans, active-duty troops and Guard and Reserve members can get a one-year Amazon Prime membership for $79 — that’s $40 off the regular price.Free “Veterans Day Honor” MP3 album download. The album includes 12 songs by The Bands and Ensembles of the U.S. Armed Forces. You can apply here. 

American Family Care — Military veterans get a free flu shot on November 11.

Army & Air Force Exchange Service — The Exchange will feature one-day only specials on November 11, including a free coffee for all shoppers at Express and participating Exchange restaurant locations. And MILITARY STAR cardholders will earn double points November 11 and additional discounts with their card.

Buckle — Military can save 10% off purchases all year long, plus get free shipping November 4 through 18 with a minimum purchase of $129.

Cole Haan – 20% discount at https://www.colehaan.com/military.html.

Delta Sonic Car Wash — Veterans and active-duty military get a free Super Kiss and Semi-Synthetic Oil Change on November 11.

Enterprise Car Sales — Active-duty military members, veterans and their families get a Firestone Prepaid Maintenance Package with any used vehicle purchase during the entire month of November.

Eyemart Express — Veterans, active- and non-active duty military personnel, and their families receive 20% off prescription eyewear purchases when they visit a store through November 16.

Food Lion — Active-duty military, veterans and their families get a 10% discount on November 11.

Goodyear Auto Service — Military members get free car care checks and free tire installation. Effective November 8 through 16, the free car care checks will include checks on tires, brakes, alignment, battery, wiper blades and shocks and struts. Active and retired military members will also receive free tire installation during the promotion period, creating a minimum savings of $25 per tire.

Grace for Vets — Car washes from around the world who join this program offer free car washes to veterans and service members on November 11.

Great Clips – On November 11, veterans and current military members can visit a Great Clips salon to receive either a free haircut or the free haircut card to use at a later date. Non-military customers can purchase a service on Veterans Day and get a free haircut card to give to a veteran you know. Haircuts are redeemable until Dec. 31.

Home Depot — Home Depot offers a 10% discount to all veterans on November 11. Home Depot offers the 10% discount year round to for active duty and retirees.

Just Tires — Military members get free car care checks and free tire installation. Effective November 8 through 16, the free car care checks will include checks on tires, brakes, alignment, battery, wiper blades and shocks and struts. Active and retired military members will also receive free tire installation during the promotion period, creating a minimum savings of $25 per tire.

Kohl’s — Active and former military personnel, veterans and their families get a 30% off in-store discount November 7 through 11.

Lowe’s & Home Depot – Extra 10% off to active-duty military members, National Guard and reserve members, retirees, honorably discharged veterans and immediate family members.

Planet Fitness — Veterans and active military personnel can work out for free from November 8 through 15. In addition to full access to club services, veterans and active military personnel are invited to bring a workout buddy at no additional charge and relax after they work out with free HydroMassage and chair massages.

Publix — Veterans, active military personnel and their families save 10% on groceries on November 11.

Purple Mattress – Get 15% off with Purple’s Military Discount from 11/8-11/18, and for a limited time, get a FREE Purple product of your choice when you purchase a dreamy Purple® Mattress.

Rack Room Shoes — Military personnel and their dependents get a 10% discount off entire purchase on November 11.

Readers.com — Readers.com offers a 30% off military discount sitewide November 10 through 12.

Sheetz — On November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel get a free 6 inch turkey sub and a regular size fountain drink. Sheetz locations offering car washes will also provide a free car wash to veterans and active-duty military.

Sleep Number — Military and veteran families receive an extra $100 off select smart beds and adjustable bases with promo code through November 17.

SmileDirectClub — Active military members and veterans get $175 off their clear aligner purchase November 10 through 14.

SpartanNash — Active duty, Reserve, National Guard and veterans get an 11% discount on all eligible products on November 10 and 11.

Sport Clips — Participating locations are offering veterans free haircuts on November 11.

Stargazer Cast Iron –Veterans get a 30% military discount November 8 through 11.

Swarovski — Veterans receive 10% off an in store purchase, November 8 through 11.

Target — Active-duty military, veterans, Reservists and their dependents can receive a 10% discount on a purchase made in-store and online from November 3 through 11.

T-Mobile — As Veterans Day approaches, T-Mobile announced that, starting November 1, active-duty military and veterans can get 50% off the latest Samsung smartphones, including the new Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+. This is in addition to their Magenta Military plan, which includes 50% off family lines, available to military, veterans and their families year-round.

TOPS — Veterans and active military personnel receive an 11% discount off of a total order on November 11.

Tuft & Needle — Veterans, active-duty military members and their family members get a discount of $175 off their Mint and Hybrid mattresses. This offer is valid through November 11 online and in store.

Verizon — As Veterans Day approaches, Verizon announced that active-duty military members, Reservists, cadets, Gold Star families and veterans can receive a 1-year membership of Amazon Prime when they add a new line of service. These customers are also eligible for Wireless and Fios discounts. The offer will run from October 24 to December 2. This is in addition to their year-round discounts on plans and accessories.

Walgreens – 20% off November 8 through 11.

Veteran’s Day Travel Discounts

9/11 Memorial and Museum — Veterans will receive free Museum admission as well as half-price museum tickets for up to two family members from November 8 to 14.

AMC Theatres — Active-duty service members and veterans who purchase a ticket using their AMC Stubs membership can enjoy a free large popcorn November 8 through 11.

Aquarium of the Pacific — Veterans and military personnel get free admission on November 11.

Army Corp of Engineers Recreation Areas — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day-use fees at its recreation areas nationwide November 11.

B&Bs for Vets — The innkeepers participating in the 2019 B&Bs for Vets program will offer a minimum of one room for one night and totally free. Most innkeepers will give their free rooms away on November 10, but offers vary. 

Birmingham Zoo — Veterans, active and retired military and their dependents will receive free admission on November 9 until 11.

Boston Bruins — In conjunction with Military Appreciation Night on November 12, all military will receive a 20% off discount at the ProShop and all GameDay ProShop locations.

Boston Duck Tours — Veterans and active military ride free from November 11 through 15. Dependents ride for $10 per person (plus 5% CCF surcharge). 

CheapoAir – Discounts vary. 

CheapTickets.com – . Get 18% off your hotel when you enter your military ID. 

Cincinnati Zoo — All members of the military will receive free admission to the Zoo on Veterans Day. The offer also allows military personnel to purchase up to six (6) half-price admission tickets for members of their immediate family.

Colonial Williamsburg — Military families can receive a free admission ticket during Veterans Day weekend.

Crystal Travel – Veteran’s Day sale 

Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) — Veterans and military personnel get free rides on November 11.

Divi Resorts — Active-duty and retired military and their families get up to 50% off all resorts on Aruba, Bonaire, Barbados and St. Maarten. This limited time offer runs until November 27 for travel through December 20, 2019.

DoSeum — Active and retired military and military families get free admission November 9 through 11.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden — Veterans get free admission on November 11.

Harley-Davidson Museum — The Harley-Davidson Museum is offering free admission to active military, veterans and their families on November 9, 10, and 11 in honor of Veterans Day.

Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys has a Heroes Salute Program that takes place August 1 until December 19, will honor active and retired military, fire and rescue, law enforcement and medical personnel with special room rates, weekly tributes and discounted prices on experiences. Rates for qualitied heroes start at $129 per night.

Historic Banning Mills — Veterans get a 15% off discount on November 11.

Jefferson Lines — Veterans and active military members get free tickets anytime between November 1-11. Free tickets are available for travel departing on November 11 through November 27 for both one-way and round-trip tickets. Veterans and active military members are welcome to return on a different date for round-trip tickets anytime through December 31.

Killington Resort — Active-duty, retired and honorably discharged members of the military ski for free on November 11.

Knott’s Berry Farm — Active-duty military and veterans receive free admission for themselves and 1 guest from November 3 through 21 and December 2 through 19. Additional discounted tickets may be purchased at the ticket booth.

La Quinta by Wyndham — From October 22 through December 5, any current or retired military personnel, veterans and their families who book and stay at La Quinta hotels in the U.S. and Canada can take advantage of a 15% off military discount.

LEGOLAND Florida – From November 1 through 22, veterans receive free admission. Veterans can also purchase theme park tickets for up to six guests at a 50% discount on the same dates.

Lucky Strike Entertainment — Active, inactive and retired military personnel get complimentary 1 hour of bowling, as well as a burger and beer for $10 on November 11.

Mammoth Mountain — Active-duty military and veterans ski/ride free on November 11.

Medieval Times – Discounted tickets and free Royalty Upgrades to veterans and active duty military and their family members with ID for the month of November.

Monticello — Veterans get complimentary admission November 9 through 11.

Montpelier — Veterans get free House tours and Museum Shop discounts November 8 through 11.

Motor Transport Museum — The Motor Transport Museum will honor Veterans Day by being open November 10 and 11 with free admission. Veterans get a 50% discount on t-shirts and kids get free stickers.

Mount Vernon — All active-duty, former, or retired military personnel are admitted for free on November 11.

Museum of East Tennessee History — Veterans, active-duty military, and their families get free admission November 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

National Law Enforcement Museum — Active military personnel and veterans get free admission on November 11.

National Parks — On November 11, veterans will have access to over 100 National Parks that require entrance fees for free.

National WWI Museum and Memorial — Admission is free for veterans and active-duty military personnel November 8 through 11.

Natural History Museum of Utah — Former members of the military, plus one additional guest each, receive free admission on November 9, 10 and 11.

New Mexico Museum of Space History — Veterans get free admission on November 11.

Newseum — Veterans and active-duty members of the military plus one guest get free admission November 9 through 11.

NY Waterway — Active-duty military and veterans get free ferry service on November 11.

Oklahoma City Zoo — Active-duty, active reserves and retirees get free admission on November 11.

Orlando Science Center — Veterans get free admission and their attending family members receive 50% off admission from November 1 through 17. Ways to save money in Orlando

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium — On November 9 through 11, veterans and active-duty military get free admission, and their families get half-off general admission.

Pro Football Hall of Fame — Veterans and active military plus a guest get free museum admission and parking from November 1 through 11. Throughout the rest of November and every day at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, veterans and active military receive $5 off Museum admission and their spouses and dependents receive $3 off. Free parking will be provided for the month of November.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden — Military personnel (retired and active duty) will receive free admission on November 11.

Sandals® and Beaches® Resorts – Both resorts offer guests the best Luxury-Included® Vacation experience in the Caribbean. Sandals and Beaches Resorts provide a year-round 10% discount to all active military members and veterans, in appreciation of their service. The 10% discount is in addition to any existing promotion being offered at the time and requires valid proof of military identification.

San Antonio Zoo — Active-duty, retired, veteran members of the military, National Guard and Reserves get free admission throughout the month of November. Up to four immediate family members can receive 50% off standard admission on the date of visit. Military members plus, up to four dependents can also save 20% on annual passes.

Sanderling Resort — Current and former military receive discounted rates of $119 per night from November 11 through March 14 with an additional 20% off all food, spa and retail.

Sedgwick County Zoo — All military personnel, veterans and their immediate families get complimentary admission on November 11.

Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat — Veterans, active and retired military personnel will receive complimentary admission, November 8 through 11. Additional guests receive $5 off. Vegas Travel Guide

Super 8 by Wyndham — Active and retired military members, veterans and their families can enjoy 20% off the Best Available Rate at participating Super 8 by Wyndham hotels. Plus, Wyndham Rewards members receive 500 bonus points. Book by December 5 and complete your stay by December 6. 

The Alamo — Active-duty military and veterans get free tours on November 11. San Antonio Travel Guide

USS Constitution Museum — Admission is free November 9 through 11 for active-duty, retired, and reserve military personnel.

West Virginia State Parks — Military personnel who have served or those currently in reserve or active-duty get 50% off regular lodge and cabin rates on stays between November 1 through November 15. Presentation of military or veteran status will be requested upon check in.

Westgate Resorts — Westgate Resorts is continuing the tradition of honoring eligible U.S. military personnel and their families by giving away 1,500 free vacations at Westgate Vacation Villas and Town Center Resort. Check back on November 11 at 9am EST to participate. Military Weekend will take place May 8 through 20, 2020.

Woodland Park Zoo — Active, retired, and veteran military personnel and their spouses get free admission on November 11.

World of Coca-Cola — Active duty, reserves, and retirees get free admission year-round, and November 1 through 11, members of the Armed Forces may purchase up to four half-price general admission tickets for their friends and family.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts — Active and retired military members, veterans, and their families save up to 20%, plus receive 500 Wyndham Rewards bonus points on stays through December 6.

Zoo Atlanta — Veterans, active-duty, retired and reserve members get free admission and $4 off general admission for up to six accompanying guests on November 11.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. 

The post Veteran’s Day discounts for Military appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Are you military personnel and want to fly for free, but do not know how to take a military hop? After successfully flying to multiple states and countries we have become experts! I had to figure out everything the hard way, but you do not! Keep reading to find out how to take a military hop and start using this cool military benefit right away.

What is a military hop?

A military hop is when you are able to fly on a military aircraft from one location to another location. This is also known as and referred to as “space a travel”. Military hops are only available at certain bases and you never know where available planes may be going or how many seats will be available. I consider the ability to fly for free on military flights to be one of the best benefits for military families.

72 hours before the flight most military terminals update their Facebook pages so you can see where the planes are going. These are always subject to change at a moment’s notice. It is not always free to travel space-a but it is extremely cheap if you are able to take one. Your travel plans must be extremely flexible.

There is no set schedule for any flights. Just the schedule they publish on Facebook 72 hours out. 

How to take a military hop?

If you are on active duty you must be on leave to be eligible to get on a hop. You must show your orders or leave paperwork to get on a hop. The military member is allowed to fly space a and bring direct dependants with them. Spouses are not allowed to hop without the military sponsor unless stationed overseas. Each dependent must show a military id unless they are under the age of 9.

Space A Baggage allowance

Baggage allowance varies by aircraft. You are allowed to take quite a bit of weight, but since we never know exactly what we are getting into we always pack as light as possible. At times we have had to walk from the Space A terminal to billeting and it would have been a nightmare if we had a lot of luggage with us.

• C12, C20, C21, C26, UC35 and C38 – 30 LBS total checked baggage.
• C9, C40 – 50 LBS per person.
• C5, C17, KC135 and C130 – 70 LBS per bag, 2 bags per person. (This is normally the type of aircraft you would hop on.)

Space A Facebook pages

Facebook pages have made it so much easier to see where the planes are going. Terminals release the tentative schedules on their Facebook pages 48 – 72 hours in advance. Here are a few Facebook pages. This is by no means a complete list. To find more use the search tool inside Facebook and type in the passenger terminal. It should bring up a lot of them. Basically anywhere there’s an air force base with cargo planes or tankers, there’s a chance that there are flights going in and out that you could possibly get on. 

      Andersen Passenger Terminal – Guam

Andrews  in Maryland

Aviano, Italy (They have a rotator, so lots of seats.)

Charleston, South Carolina

      Diego Garcia Passenger Terminal – Indian Ocean

       Dover Passenger Terminal – Delaware

       Eglin Passenger Terminal – Florida Panhandle

       Germany

Honolulu, Hawaii 

Lodging at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam

Hale Koa – Oahu Military Resort

       JBSA Lackland // JBSA Randolph Passenger Terminal – San Antonio, Texas

        Kadena Passenger Terminal – Japan

        MacDill Passenger Terminal – Tampa, Florida

        McConnell Passenger Terminal – Kansas

        McGuire AFB Passenger Terminal – New Jersey

        Misawa Passenger Terminal – Japan

        NAS Fort Worth JRB Passenger Terminal – Fort Worth, Texas

        Naples Passenger Terminal – Naples, Italy

        Norfolk Passenger Terminal – Norfolk, Virginia

        Osan AB Passenger Terminal – South Korea

        RAF Mildenhall Passenger Terminal – England

        Rota Spain Passenger Terminal – Spain

        Seymour Johnson AFB Passenger Terminal – North Carolina

        Scott Passenger Terminal – Illinois 

 Seattle Airport 

        Souda Bay Passenger Terminal – Greece on the island of Crete

Tacoma, Washington (There is a USO right next door!)

What to expect on a Military Hop

You will need a coat, especially in the winter. It gets extremely cold during some flights. You will notice that in every photo of us on a military flight we are wearing coats or jackets.

Snacks are given out during the flight, sometimes, but not always. You may bring on your own food and drinks.

If a meal is available for purchase, get it. If you are traveling with a hungry teenager, buy them two meals. One “lunch box” typically costs around $6 and has a sandwich, soda, water, chips, granola bar, one piece of fruit, and a dessert.

The Cost to fly Space A

Zero – So far, I have never had to pay to hop. I know that if you get on the rotator in Baltimore you have to pay. If there is a fee, they will let you know.

Have a Backup Plan

Do you have the money to get yourself home if you are not selected?

Depending on which status you are classified as you may or may not make it on to the hop. For example:

You and your family have successfully hopped over to Hawaii from California. You’ve completed your vacation and are now ready to hop back to California. Only California is having a huge storm, so all flights get canceled that day. The next day twice as many people are needing to hop due to the canceled flight the day before. You are retired, therefore in the lowest category, category six. Only Categories 1-3 make it on to the first flight, the next flight only categories 1-3 make it on again. Things are not looking good and you NEED to get back. Guess what? You have to pay out of pocket for a last-minute one-way flight from Hawaii home on a commercial airline. (I use this example because I watched this happen to a family when we were all trying to get back from Oahu.)

FAQ Space-A Travel Questions

I’ve noticed that I tend to get many of the same questions, so I’ve put together some of the most common ones and answered them the best I can. 

What is my space-a priority?

There are six categories people are placed into. 

Category 1

• Service members on emergency status leave orders.

Category 2

• Uniformed Services Members. 

Category 3 

Most active duty will fall into this category.

• Uniformed Services members in a leave or pass status, other than emergency leave, including members of the reserve components on active duty, in leave or pass status.
• Dependents of a member of the Uniformed Services when accompanied by their sponsor in a leave status.
• Medal of Honor recipients and their dependents (when accompanied by their sponsor). Except for active duty, the traveler needs to present a copy of the Medal of Honor Award Certificate.

Category 4

• Dependents traveling under the EML Program, unaccompanied by their sponsor.
• DODDS teachers of dependents accompanied or unaccompanied traveling under the EML Program. 

Category 5 

• Military personnel traveling on permissive TDY orders other than for house hunting.
• Dependents (children) who are college students attending in residence at an overseas branch of an American (U.S) university located in the same overseas area in which they reside, command sponsored, stationed overseas with their sponsor, who is: (1) A member of the Uniformed Services; (2) A U.S. citizen civilian employee of the Department of Defense (paid from either appropriated funds or NAF).

Category 6

• Retired Uniformed Services members and their dependents. Dependants must be accompanied by their sponsor.
• Newly commissioned ROTC officers who are awaiting call to extended active duty. Travel is authorized within and between the CONUS, Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. territories.
• Some disabled veterans. 

Can you use an air mattress on a military hop?

Yes, you can use an air mattress on a military plane. We’ve only done it once, but there was enough room and no one seemed to mind. I’ve also seen someone do this on one of the flights we were on, which is where I got the idea!

Also, if the plane isn’t full you can lie across the seats. We bring travel pillows to use on the flights.

Can you use electronics during the flight?

Yes, You are allowed to use whatever electronics you want. I saw a guy pull out an entire gaming system set up once and game the entire flight.

Is a passport needed?

If you are leaving the country you must have a passport. You will have to go through customs when you get to a different country.

Is there a bathroom facility on the plane?

Yes, there is always some sort of bathroom on the plane. The size of the bathroom or the number of bathrooms will depend on the plane. From what I can recall there has always been just one bathroom on the planes we have flown on. The bathroom is pretty basic but good enough.

Can disabled veterans fly space-a?

For a long time they could not, but recently the law changed. The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act allows veterans with a permanent and total service-connected Department of Veterans Affairs disability rating to travel space available on military aircraft.
However, there are some restrictions. 

Disabled veterans are assigned a space-a travel priority of Category 6, the lowest priority available. Dependents of disabled veterans are not eligible for Space-A travel.

Authorized disabled veterans can travel in the continental United States or directly between the United States and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa. So, not Europe or Asia.

Disabled veterans must have a DD Form 2765, Defense Department ID Card (Tan), in order to fly Space-A.

Can a disabled military member bring a caretaker along on space-a flights?

No. 

Can I just show up?

No, you need to register in advance for each and every flight you take. When a flight is posted there will be an email listed. You need to send them an email to list for the flight. 

Can parents of military members take a hop?

No. Military flight benefits are only for the military member’s spouse and children.

• Feel free to leave a question in the comments and I will do my best to answer them! A few of you have reached out to me to see if I can personally help you get on a flight. I cannot. 

Is there somewhere to park my car?

For the most part, there is always somewhere to park your car fairly close to the terminal. Sometimes parking can be somewhere else on the base. Typically that happens at bases that do more hops than other bases like Travis AFB. 

KC-135

I thought it would be fun to add some photos from flying in a KC-135, which is a tanker.

In this first photo, I was laying down at the bottom of the tanker at the very back of the plane. There is a window down there for the boom operator to work and we were able to lay down there and watch other planes refueling. It was awkward but totally worth it!

This is the outside of the KC 135 we rode on. It was so hot on there until we got up high.

If you ever have the chance to take a military hop, don’t hesitate! It’s an incredible opportunity to see different parts of the world and travel for free. I’ve been lucky enough to take hops to Germany, Italy, Spain, Oahu, and many other amazing places. Have you taken a military hop? Where did you go?

Read Next:

American Forces Travel

Stay in Hawaii at Bellows Beach in a Bellows AFB Cabins

The post How to Take a Military Hop aka Military Flight and Fly for Free appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Here are some military discounts that I have found. I’ve managed to find all kinds of different military discounts including restaurants, retailers, ski resorts, theme parks, hotels, and more! Most of these discounts are for active-duty members and veterans. 

Restaurant Discounts

A&W – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Applebee’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you

Arby’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.  (I have never been able to get a military discount at an Arby’s)

Back Yard Burgers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Barnhill’s Buffet – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Burger King – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Captain D’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Carl’s Jr. – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Chevy’s Fresh Mex – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Chick Fil A – Varies, Discount with ID card (location dependent), discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Chipotle – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Ci-Ci’s Pizza – Discount varies, dependent on location, must present military ID
Cold Stone ice cream  – 10% off
Dairy Queen – 10% off, location dependent
Denny’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Friendly’s Ice Cream Stores – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Golden Corral – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

IHOP – 20% with Military ID at owner’s discretion

Java Cafe – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
KFC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Long John Silver’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Longhorn Steakhouse – 10% military discount

McDonald’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Pancho’s Mexican Buffet – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Panda Express – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Papa Johns – they run military specials occasionally
Paradise Bakery– 40% off meals for military members with military ID. It does not extend to the family.
Pizza Hut – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Quizno’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Raising Cane’s Chicken – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Red Robin – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Sizzler – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Sonic – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Taco Bell – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Texas Road House – 10% military discount Texas Roadhouse – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
The Melting Pot – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Product Discounts

24 Hour Fitness – $5 off monthly membership

Abercrombie & Fitch – 10% to 15% off in-store

Advanced Auto Parts – 10% off

Aeropostale – 20% off in-store, just bring valid military ID.

Agentsource.com – Up to 40% off standard real estate closing costs for Active duty men and women moving in the United States or Canada

All State – Allstate Funding proudly offers all U.S. Military personnel a $250 credit towards the appraisal of a residential property. Ends 12/31/2010

Alphalete Athletics – 10% military discount

America’s Tires – 5% off

American Tire Depot – 15% off

American Video Productions -10% off to active duty, retired, families of military and dependents. Call and ask for the discount 

Anna’s Linens – 10% off any purchase with Valid Military ID in-store only

Ann Taylor – up to 15% off any full-price purchase

Anytime Fitness – They offer a military discount but it’s up to each location as to how much. 

Apple Computers – The discount varies, you need to sign up here – http://www.apple.com/r/store/government/

Ashford University – Discounted tuition at $250 a credit, books are covered for all required courses, waived application fee, waived technology fee and more! Benefits apply to all Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists and spouses, dependents eligible for survivor benefits, plus civilian DOD employees & separated vets/retirees still using their GI Bill.

ASMBA – Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association – Membership in the non-profit association is free, and, when you join, you’ll get $3,000 of free AD&D coverage.

AT&T – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Auto Zone – Varies Per Store – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Banana Republic – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).

Barnes and Noble – 6% off regular price plus free shipping, check out www.bn.com/militarycity

Bass Pro Shops – 5% off including products like Bear Archery

Bath & Body Works – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Beyond Blossoms – 20% off all flower orders 

Big 10 Tires – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Big Tex Ordnance – up to 15% off

Boscov’s– 15% off in-store purchases with military ID everyday.

Bronson laboratories – 10% off on all vitamin and supplement orders, for active, retired, and reserve and their families Call 1-800-235-3200 1-800-235-3200 or use online code AF2004, ends 1/21/2011

Buckle – 10% off, Free Shipping on all military orders

Chaco – 20% Off Orders $49+

Champs Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Checker Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Copeland’s Sports – Discount varies per location

Dell Computers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Dick’s Sporting Goods – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Discount Tires – 5% off

Discovery Channel Store – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

D.S.W. Shoe Warehouse – 10% military discount

Express Clothing Store– 10% off on top of other coupons as well with military ID

Extreme Outfitters -10-20% on military gear, online and in store

Eyeware – Discount varies, get the discount online at http://www.afeyewear.com/ – This site offers military discounts for a wide range of eyeglass companies

Gap – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
Geico – 2% to 15% in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee, and Texas

Goodyear Tire – 10% military discount online after verification. 

GNC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Hewlett-Packard – Log on to the website and click on New User Registration: Enter first and last name, user name, password and email address. Use company code: 2727. The discounts vary. Online only.

HickoryFarms.com – 10 percent Military discount – Enter 892848 in the code box in the online order form
Home Depot – 10% off Year Round, to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. In-Store, just bring valid military ID

Inkshouse.com – 20% off $50 or more, use cod Mil20

Jiffylube – 10% off with valid Military ID
Jockey – 10% off with valid Military ID
KB Toys – 15% off during advertised Military Days

Kohl’s – 15% off with Military ID
Kragen Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
Lerner – 15% off

Lowes – 10% off year-round to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. Just bring a valid military ID. The military discount, however, cannot be combined with other coupons they may be offering.

Lululemon – 15% military discount

Mary Kay Cosmetics – Military personnel and dependents receive 10 % on online orders. Reference your service affiliation and status, and ask for an additional free gift and bigger discounts by contacting website.

Meineke – 10% off parts

Michaels – 15% off every Wednesday.

Microsoft – 10% off select products in the Microsoft Store, 30% off Office 365

Midas – 10% off MLB Hall of Fame – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Mr.Tire – 10% military discount for online and in-store shopping. 

Mrs. Fields– 10% off with military ID

NAPA Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Nautica – 10% off with military ID

National Credit Solutions – 25% discount, call toll-free at 866-485-2540 866-485-2540 x109, and for a direct line please call 972-746-4209 972-746-4209

New York and Company – 15% off military discount

Nextel – 18% Discount, call 1-800-639-6111 1-800-639-6111

Nike – 10% off, In-Store.

Norma Shooting – 10% military discount

Nuvo – $30 off Ritmo Pregnancy Sound System. You can call 1-888-688-6462 1-888-688-6462 or use coupon code MILITARY99 online at http://www.nuvo-group.com. Valid military ID required for in-store purchases.

O’Reilly Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Oakley – There is a website you register with that offers Oakleys at a discounted price. It doesn’t say how much that price is though.

Old Navy – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).

Pac Sun – Discount varies per location, just bring in a valid military ID and ask

Race-Depot – 10% off, use code 10MILCITY

Rack Room Shoes – 15% discount. Bring a valid military ID

Play It Again Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Professional Sports teams – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Pure Beauty – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – 10% military discount

Rocky Mountain Tracking – 5% off any tracking inc. Use code USMILITARY, http://www.rmtracking.com/

S & K Men’s Wear – 8% Discount on all items free shipping on orders over $99 & APO/FPO shipping. To access the military site at S&K you must go through their AAFES Exchange Mail Online service.

Sally Beauty Supply – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Samsonite– 15% off with military ID

Shoe Carnival – 10% off

Simple Tire – 5% off

Spencer’s Gifts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Sports Clips – 20% off

Spot Hogg – Active duty military (reserves and NG on active orders) get a 45% military discount!

SportsMemorabilia.com – 10% off at checkout, use code mili10 online

Sprint Business – 15% to 20% Discount, 1-888-788-4727 1-888-788-4727

Sunglass Hut – 15% off

Take 5 Oil Change – 25% off

The Finish Line– 20 percent military discount off select items at special locations

Timberland Outlets

Tire Rack –  10% to 20% special discount once you have proved your eligibility. 

Military Travel Discounts

Activity Discounts

CityPass – CityPass is available in multiple cities around the United States. They offer a great deal and then on top of that good deal, they will give you a military discount if it’s purchased on base from an ITT office.

CitySights NY – Military discount on CitySights NY including the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

GILROY GARDENS – Active duty military and guests can purchase a $30 General Admission on all public operating days at Gilroy Gardens in Gilroy, California. 

Imax – $1 off movie tickets with Military ID

Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio, Texas offers $6 off entry for military personnel and their families. You must show your military ID at the park.

Pacific Park out on the pier in Santa Monica, California offers a 10% off discount.
Professional Sports teams.

Regal Movie Theaters – it is usually a dollar off.  Requires Military ID.

Ripley’s attractions and museums – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

San Antonio Rodeo – Free entrance but doesn’t include any of the concerts. 

Tours4Fun offers a 10% military discount.

Airline Discounts

Alligiant Air – Free checked bags, free carryon bags, free oversized bags, other waived fees.

American Airlines – Discount varies, requires military ID

Cheap O Air – Save big on Military Airfares & Get up to $40◊ off with promo code: MILITRY40

Southwest Airlines – Varies, it’s a dollar amount, not a percentage. Not available on all flights, you’ll have to call Southwest and simply just ask.

Cruise Discounts

Azamara Cruises – Discounts vary, 800-338-4962 800-338-4962

Carnival Cruise Line (up to 50% off)

Hotel Discounts

Beaches Resorts – Military Servicemen Receive GREAT Savings At Beaches Resorts.

Bed & Breakfast Inns – Varies, online Best Inns and Suites – Varies, must present Military ID with check-in

Bellows AFB Cabins

Best Western – Best Western Government & Military Discounts

Caesar’s Hotels – MILITARY DISCOUNT at most Las Vegas hotels! – Save up to 30% on select hotels including Bally’s Las Vegas, Caesars Palace, Flamingo, Harrah’s, NOBU Hotel, Paris, Planet Hollywood, Rio, The Cromwell, and The LINQ

Candlewood Suites 

Cayo Espanto – a private island resort located off the coast of Belize. The 20% off total all-inclusive stay is available on stays to all active and veteran military personnel as a way to honor their service.

Choice Hotels – Discount varies

Clarion Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders.

Comfort Inn – Varies based on property. 

Days Inn – Rates within allowable per diem. Must present valid military ID with check-in

Echno Lodge – discount varies

Extended Stay – discount varies

Great Wolf Lodge – Military offers vary throughout the year, but they usually cost around $179 per night with the discount.

Hale Koa 

Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys has a Heroes Salute Program that takes place August 1 until December 19, will honor active and retired military, fire and rescue, law enforcement and medical personnel with special room rates, weekly tributes and discounted prices on experiences. Rates for qualitied heroes start at $129 per night.

Hilton – Varies by area.

Holiday Inn – Enjoy a Military Discount when you book a stay at Holiday Inn, or any IHG hotel.

Hotels.com – They offer a 10% off discount. 

Mainstay Suites – Offers vary by property

Marriott Hotels – It’s the Per Diem amount the government picks up, whatever that amount is. Just call and place the reservation over the phone and ask for that discount.

Nickelodeon Hotels – Reduced rates and perks, online and in store, www.nickhotel.com/military , 877-NICK-111 877-NICK-111 and ask for the Military Family Package.

Ramada – 15% to 30% – depending on availability. Must present military I.D. upon check-in.

Sandals Resorts Military Savings. Save an additional 10% now.

Sierra Suites – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military ID.

Sleep Inn – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability.

Staybridge – discount varies.

Travelodge – Rates within allowable per diem. Discounts may vary and depend on availability.– 15%, bring in valid military ID

Universal Orlando Hotels – 30% off, except Cabana Bay which offers 40% off. 

Theme Park Discounts

Aquatica – All Aquatica properties offer a military discount, including free admission. 

Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe, Arizona offers a military discount to active duty service members on general admission. Pay $19.95 on tickets at the gate instead of $32.95.

Busch Gardens one complimentary admission per year up to 4 people. Busch Gardens Waves of Honor Military Pass

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG – Active duty receives one complimentary admission ticket per year (and up to three direct dependents). Retired military and veterans qualify for a 50% discount on Single-day tickets or on Annual Passes for up to three direct dependents. 

Discovery Cove – They offer discounts on one-day admission. See our Discovery Cove review. 

Disney Resorts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Disneyland – Military discounts are available only for tickets purchased at installation MWRs. Prices vary per date and length of visit

Disney World – varies every year and it is usually a substantial discount.

Dollywood in Tennessee offers a 30% discount on one-day admission tickets for active or retired military, disabled veterans, reservists, spouses, and dependents. Tickets must be purchased at the front gate of Dollywood.

Hershey Park

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana offers a military discount. Save $12 off full-price General Admission tickets.

Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville offers a military discount of $39.95 plus tax at the gate (regular price is $54.95). This offer is valid for one entry during 2018, and you can purchase up to 4 tickets per ID.

Kings Dominion in Virginia offers free admission during their Memorial Weekend Salute: Honoring Our Heroes and Star Spangled Celebration events.

Kings Island in Cincinnati, Ohio offers discounts off the regular Front Gate admission price to active and retired members of the military and veterans. The discount offer is valid for up to 6 family members.

Knoebel’s Amusement Resort in Pennsylvania any day during the season. Active duty and Reservists get a $40 book of ride tickets, and veterans get a $20 book of ride tickets. Available once per season.

Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California has massive roller coasters, water rides, games and arcades, and live entertainment. Show your ID to purchase Knott’s Berry Farm Regular admission tickets for only $50. You can also visit a local base to find deals.

LEGOLAND California offers a 3-day Military Resort Hopper. 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort: all active-duty U.S. Service Members FREE admission to LEGOLAND Florida Park & Water Park and up to 25% off your LEGOLAND hotel.

Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio, Texas offers $6 off entry for military personnel and their families. You must show your military ID at the park.

Santa’s Village Amusement Park outside of Chicago in East Dundee, Illinois enjoy rides, catch a show and visit with Santa. Active duty military and direct dependents get free admission, and veterans get a discounted admission.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort in New Braunfels, Texas offers military rates through the ITT offices at military installations. The closest ITT offer is at Randolph AFB. This discount is not always available at the park.

Sea World one complimentary admission per year for 4 people or SeaWorld Single Day Ticket – Military 50% Off

Sesame Place one complimentary admission per year for up to 4 people. Sesame Place Waves of Honor Single Day Ticket– Free Admission

Six Flags Mountain Magic – Service members receive special discounts on admission for special events and specific dates. Tickets must be purchased in advance MWR and ITT 143. Recreation offices, not at the park.

Stone Mountain Park in Georgia offers a military all attraction pass for $24.95 plus tax.

Universal Orlando – Discounted tickets

Wet ‘n’ Wild Emerald Pointe – “the Carolinas’ Largest Water Park” offers a military discount of $7 off each all-day adult general admission ticket.

Wild River Country – a 26-acre water park in North Little Rock, Arkansas has thirteen attractions. The water park offers military personnel $5 off one-day admission tickets.

Worlds of Fun – located near Kansas City, offers a military discount off the front gate admission price to military members and their families. 

Transportation Discounts

Amtrak – 10% off

Avis – 25% off, online you should use this coupon AWD # A555084

Budget – Varies, up to 25% off time and mileage Store, requires military ID to redeem

Budget Truck Rental – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Dollar Car Rental – Allowable per diem rates

Hertz – Allowable per diem rates. Show valid military ID

National – No fee for additional drivers, and special off duty rates per location. Service members receive full loss damage waivers

Sixt Rentals – an extra 5% off. 

Paradise Limousine – $25 Off Limousine Service Coupon Code: 1369 for service members

Ski Resorts with Military Discounts

Arapahoe Basin is offering a discounted military pass that offers unlimited, unrestricted skiing and riding at A-Basin for only $99 for adults and $79 for children. This pass is valid for active, retired and veteran military members with valid ID. Arapahoe Basin also offers a discount on daily and multi-day lift tickets for military members.

Aspen Snowmass offers discounts on season passes and daily lift tickets for all retired veterans, active duty and honorably discharged military personnel of the United States Armed Services and their dependents. Veterans must present a valid military ID, discharge papers or proof of V.A. benefits at the ticket office to redeem.

Aspen Snowmass also offers several events and programs to honor military members, including Veteran’s Day discounts in November and Challenge Aspen Military Opportunities (CAMO), which provides adaptive therapeutic recreation and wellness experiences for military personnel diagnosed with cognitive and/or physical disabilities.

Bear Mountain Resort in Southern California offers active-duty military and their dependents 25% off ticket window rate for one-day lift tickets. Military discounts are also available online.

Beaver Creek Ski Resort in Colorado offers Military Epic Passes, including $129 for active-duty, retired military and dependents, as well as $529 for veterans and their adult dependents. Or a one day tickets for $40. 

Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado offers Military Epic Passes, including $129 for active-duty, retired military and dependents, as well as $529 for veterans and their adult dependents.

Brighton – One day ticket, $60.

Camelback Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania offers discounted tickets to active-duty military, up to 4 card-carrying dependents and veterans with a valid DD-214.

China Peak in California offers military personnel, including active, retired, veteran and military dependents discounted all day lift tickets, valid any day, including holidays.

Cooper’s Military Season Pass offers unlimited skiing and riding at Cooper plus three bonus days at 37 partner resorts for $199 for military adults and $109 for children ages 6-14. Military skiers and riders at Cooper can also receive a discount on daily lift tickets, with military adults paying $45 and children $30 for a full day of skiing.

Copper Mountain is pleased to offer a discounted Military Pass for active duty, military retiree, national guard, reserve forces and their spouse/dependents with valid ID. Military adults can purchase a full unlimited season pass to Copper Mountain for $279, while military teens pay $249 and children $169.

Crystal Mountain in Michigan offers $15 off on Saturday and Peak Periods, as well as 50% off midweek (Sunday-Friday).

Deer Valley – One day ticket, $96. In Utah, near Park City. 

Diamond Peak – Located in northern Lake Tahoe, offers military discounts that include free lift tickets midweek/non-peak for active-duty military. Retired military and dependents save $20 off the all-day window rate.

Eagle Point in Utah offers a 15% discount to active-duty military on lift tickets.

Echo Mountain Resort offers active duty military and service members a discounted season pass for $149 for the 2018-19 season.

Eldora offers a 20 percent discount off the current price of an adult pass for active duty military personnel. These passes can be purchased over the phone or in person only. They also offer a discount on daily lift tickets, with active duty military members paying only $69 during peak season and $59 non-peak for a full day of skiing and riding.

Granby Ranch offers military members at 20 percent discount on daily lift tickets with a valid military ID.

Grand Targhee Resort located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in Alta, Wyoming offers active-duty military a full-day regular lift ticket for $45, holiday lift tickets for $45, and half day regular/holiday tickets for $45.

Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe offers Military Epic Passes, including $129 for active-duty, retired military and dependents, as well as $529 for veterans and their adult dependents.

Homewood Mountain Resort, located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe in the state of California, offers active-duty military free non-peak lift tickets. On peak dates and holidays, military personnel will receive 50% off day tickets. Spouses and children can also receive 50% off day lift tickets if they come with their service member.

Keystone Ski Resort in Colorado offers Military Epic Passes, including $129 for active-duty, retired military and dependents, as well as $529 for veterans and their adult dependents.

Loveland Ski Area honors military service through the Stars & Stripes Pass, a deeply discounted season pass offering to active and retired military personnel. The Stars & Stripes Pass is only available on select bases and requires a valid military ID.

Monarch Mountain in Colorado offers a discounted military season pass ($199), as well as discounted lift tickets. Monarch also offers discounted rates on daily lift tickets for military members. Military adults pay $54 for a full day of skiing at Monarch, while teens ski for $44 and juniors $30.

Nordic Valley – $25 – $40 one day tickets. 

Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont offers Military Epic Passes, including $129 for active-duty, retired military and dependents, as well as $529 for veterans and their adult dependents.

Park City – $98 one day ticket. 

Powderhorn Resort offers members of the military a $10 discount on daily lift tickets.

Powder Mountain – in Utah, 35% off one day tickets. 

Purgatory recognizes the service of active and retired military and their families with a 15 percent discount on lodging, lift tickets and ski and snowboard rentals.

Silverton Mountain offers military members a 25 percent discount on guided skiing

Ski Bowl – 50% one day ticket for active duty member, 25% off for dependants. 

Ski Butternut in Massachusetts offers military discounts on lift tickets, ski and snowboard packages and group lessons.

Solitude – $65 one day ticket

Snow Summit in California offers active-duty military and their dependents 25% off ticket window rate for one-day lift tickets. Military discounts are also available online.

Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Snowshoe, West Virginia offers military discounts on single-day lift tickets and 3-day tickets.

Steamboat Springs – For active duty member and their spouse:

• Receive 20% off window rate lift tickets
• Receive 20% off window rate Ski & Snowboard School lessons
• Receive 20% off window rate Ski & Sport ski and snowboard rentals

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California offers active duty military a season pass. The cost of the season pass is a $60 donation that will support the organization Military to the Mountains, a program of the High Fives Foundation.

Sundance – $60 one day ticket in Utah Valley.

Sunlight Mountain Resort offers active duty military with valid ID a season pass for only $319, good for unlimited skiing and riding at Sunlight plus more than 80 additional days of skiing at partner resorts.

Sunlight also offers a discount on daily lift tickets, with active duty and retired military and their dependents paying $45 for a full day of skiing or riding.

Telluride Ski Resort – credentialed military personnel and their household family can receive a Military Card, offering one lift ticket plus 30 percent off additional lift tickets, for $75.

Telluride also partners with the Telluride Adaptive Sports Program to offer the Disabled Veterans Winter Adventure Week, an opportunity for free travel, lodging and program expenses to any U.S. Service member who has been disabled because of an incident occurring while serving in the U.S. military.

Vail Ski Resort in Colorado offers Military Epic Passes, including $129 for active-duty, retired military and dependents, as well as $529 for veterans and their adult dependents.

Winter Park Resort offers military members a discounted season pass for $399. Winter Park also partners with the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) to host an adaptive ski and snowboard program for military veterans, including the No Boundaries program for combat wounded service men and women.

Winterplace Ski Resort in West Virginia offers Armed Forces Appreciation Days on Wednesdays.

Military Discounts on Cars

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Shades of Green resort is a military resort located in central Florida on Walt Disney World Resort property near the Polynesian Resort and Magnolia and Palms golf courses. Guests that stay, here are eligible for Disney World’s Magic Hours, but not the Disney Dining Plans.

Accommodations

Shades of Green Disney military resort offer 583 large rooms all of which can accommodate 5 people and those with disabilities. This resort is one of a handful of Disney World resorts that allows 5 in a room. Shades of Green is one of five Armed Forces Recreation Centers in the world. 

Special Military Pricing

Like the military resorts in Hawaii and Germany, room rates are based on rank. So, rates at Shades of Green resort are broken into three different priced categories. Since it is a military installation, there are no taxes.  Lower rank members pay less than higher-ranking members do. This enables military members who don’t make as much to still be able to afford vacations at Disney World.

The best perk of staying at Shades is the low price if you qualify. Standard and Poolside rooms range from $89 to $141 per night year-round! Unfortunately for us, we are in the $141 category, so we usually stay at a different property for less. Be sure to check out their website where they offer lots of specials and remember that Disney World offers military discounts at most of their properties as well.

Shades of Green Accommodations

All rooms and suites feature sleeper sofas and mini-refrigerators. The bathrooms have built-in nightlights and separate tub and vanity areas to help your family get ready faster.

All suites have a separate bedroom and microwaves.

Shades of Green Amenities and Activities

• Restaurants – Shades of Green has quite a few restaurants including, a sit-down Italian restaurant, a buffet restaurant that often offers themed food buffets, a sports bar, a grab and go option for a quick breakfast, and a small Starbucks.
• Swimming Pools – Shades of Green resort has two pools, one in the shape of Mickey Mouse’s head. Plus, they recently updated the small pool with slides and a splash park. Both pools offer organized activities scheduled poolside on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 2:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
• Mini arcade for kids
• Gaming Systems – Free Xbox 360s and Wiis kids can play with.
• Fitness Center opened 24 hours a day with free weights up to 50lbs and Zumba classes.
• Full-service spa, Magnolia Spa
• Free Bus with service to all four Walt Disney Parks, both water parks and Disney Springs. (This bus is not part of Disney’s bus system, but once you get to one of the main parks or Disney Springs you can catch a bus where ever you like on Disney grounds.) For a fee they can also take you to Universal Orlando or Sea World. The price is $10 per person ages 12+ and $5 for ages 4-11. Children 3 and under ride free. Reservations are required.
• Gift Shop – A small tax -ree, gift shop with lots of Disney products.
• Tennis Court – They have free equipment you can borrow, including rackets and balls, at the front desk.
• Yoga Classes – free and for the whole family
• Playground
• Parties – On various days throughout the year they offer free parties you can attend. At these there are cupcakes, face painting are more.

  

Other Benefits of Staying at Shades of Green

• Extra Magic Hours at the theme parks.
• FastPass+ reservations – Shades of Green Resort guests have the option to make FastPass+ reservations 30 days out along with the general public.
• Golf – Military members get a discount on all Disney golf courses, lessons, and rentals.
• FootGolf – This is a sport that combines soccer and golf, but more closely related to golf. Military personnel and family members are offered a rate of $17+tax per player, and that includes the rental of a soccer ball.
• Magnolia Spa offers all kinds of services including princess and pirate makeovers at a way better price than Disney! For adults, they offer affordable facials, massages, and nail services. You do not have to be staying at Shades of Green to use the spa.

ITT Office (Ticket Sales Office)

Having an ITT office on site is awesome! Our military family has used this office multiple times. Sometimes the lines get bad.

• Shades of Green has an ITT office on the second floor.
• Discounted tickets for Disney World as well as all other attractions in Orlando.
• No tax when you buy tickets here!
• You can buy the specially priced $169 Disney tickets here.
• Military members can get a free 1-day park hopper to Universal Studios.
• Sea World tickets are available too but remember you and your family members may be eligible to get in free.
• Cirque Du Soilel La Nouba discount tickets

They offer a lot of different types of tickets to Disney World. It’s worth taking an in-depth look on their site to figure out exactly what you want. Most just buy the military park hopper tickets.

Here’s a look at the prices for various activities around Orlando.

We often stop by Shades of Green just to hit the ITT office and get our discounted and free military tickets. Parking is free so we can park and run in and get them. You do have to show military id to get into the parking garage. Sometimes the lines can get long, so try to take care of this the day before you need to use the tickets. 

FYI – There is a small BX and ITT office near the Orlando Airport as well. This seems to be a well-kept secret and there’s often hardly anyone there. If you have a rental car you should definitely stop by!

How to get to Shades of Green

I do not recommend getting a taxi. This will run you at least $60. Instead, use Uber and Lyft Use my Uber invite code, meagans343ue, and get a free ride up to $15. Use my Lyft invite for a $50 credit! Although there was a while the Orlando airport wouldn’t allow Uber and Lyft to pickup this is no longer the case.

Unfortunately, you can not take the Magical Express. Granted, I hate the Magical Express so I consider this a good thing!

Shades of Green Disney Resort FAQ’s

Who is eligible to stay here?

There are a lot of ways to be eligible to stay at Shades of Green resort. Some are more complicated than I am able to explain, like those within a certain time frame that voluntarily separated or involuntarily separated. Others qualify for 50% eligibility. Check their website for a more extensive list and detailed explanation.

• Members on Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard, Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Cadets of Armed Forces Academies.
• Unremarried surviving spouses of personnel who died while on active duty or while in retired status ID.
• Military personnel of foreign nations and their family members when assigned or attached to a U.S. military unit or installation.
• Public Health Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Corps.
• Retired from Active Duty, Reserves, and National Guard with or without pay.
• Honorably discharged veterans with 100 percent Service-connected disability.
• U.S. employees of firms under contract to the Department of Defense working in the Pacific Region outside the U.S. on Department of Defense Government orders.
• Other personnel on official business with the Department of Defense as may be specifically authorized by the General Manager or his designee.
• Current and retired (APF and NAF) Department of Defense (DoD) and Coast Guard (CG) civilian employees.

Can Military Members Book Rooms for Other People?

The military member and the military member’s spouse may sponsor up to three additional rooms. But before you do this, know you are responsible if they do something stupid.

Do you get a MagicBand if you stay here?

Sadly, no. Guests at Shades of Green do not receive complimentary MagicBands; if you have one from a previous Disney vacation or are planning to purchase one, you can use it for your theme park entry, FastPass+ access, and PhotoPass, but it will not work as a room key. You also can not use it for making purchases.

Can we get the Disney Dining Plan?

No, sadly you cannot get access to the Disney dining plan when you stay here.

Can you use the Military Star card at Shades of Green?

Yes, the Military Star card can be used for room charges, purchases in the AAFES Store, at the Shades of Green Ticket Office for purchasing tickets for Disney and Orlando attractions, and for special events and weddings.

Is parking free?

If you park for less than 2 hours it is free to park. If you are staying the night self-parking costs $9 per night per vehicle and valet parking costs $14 per night per vehicle.

How far in advance can I book Shades of Green?

They take room reservations one year to the date before your desired arrival date. Holidays are the most popular times to book a reservation. Of course, the further in advance you book, the better chances you’ll have of securing a reservation. You’ll also find more discounts available with more advance notice. They can book weddings, meetings and other special occasions up to two years in advance.

Do Shades of Green guests have access to Walt Disney Transportation?

Yes. Shades of Green guests have access to the monorail, ferry boat and the bus transportation that Disney offers on the complex.

Can you trade Disney Pins at Shades of Green?

Yes, you can trade pins at Shades of Green. In fact, sometimes the Shades of Green has an exclusive pin that can only be purchased here. When you check in you can ask to find out if they are selling any. If you are unsure how to trade pins check-out our – How to Participate in Pin Trading at Disney

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