Senior Travel Discounts You're Missing: Airlines, Hotels, Amtrak & More

Retirement is supposed to be your time to explore, and there's no reason to pay full price while doing it. Airlines, hotels, train services, and car rental companies all offer senior discounts -- but they rarely advertise them. You have to know to ask. Here's a comprehensive roundup of the travel discounts available to you right now.

Airline Discounts for Seniors

• Southwest Airlines: Occasional senior fares for passengers 65+ (not always available but worth checking)
• American Airlines: Senior discounts vary by route -- call or check online for specific fares
• United Airlines: Previously offered senior fares; now offers AARP member discounts on select flights
• British Airways: Senior fares sometimes available for 65+ on certain international routes
• Always compare the senior fare with regular sale prices -- sometimes the standard fare is cheaper
• Book flexible tickets when possible, as senior fares may have different change/cancellation policies

Hotel Discounts for Seniors

• Marriott/Bonvoy: Up to 15% off for guests 62 and older at participating properties
• Best Western: 10-15% off for guests 55+ (must be a Best Western Rewards member)
• Wyndham Hotels: Senior rates available at many properties for guests 60+
• Choice Hotels: Up to 10% off for AARP members at Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and more
• Hilton: Offers AARP member rates at many locations
• Always ask at check-in even if you didn't book a senior rate -- front desk staff can often apply the discount

Amtrak Senior Discounts

• 10% off most rail fares for passengers 65 and older
• Discount applies to coach seats on most Amtrak routes
• Can be combined with other promotions in some cases
• The Auto Train (which carries you and your car) also offers senior discounts
• Book early for the best availability on popular routes like the Northeast Corridor and long-distance scenic trains
• Senior discount is applied automatically when you select your age during booking

Car Rental Deals for Seniors

• Avis: Up to 30% off for AARP members
• Budget: AARP member discounts on daily and weekly rentals
• Hertz: Senior rates for 50+ and additional AARP member benefits
• National Car Rental: Discounts available for those 65+
• Always compare the senior rate with online deals and coupon codes -- the best price varies
• Check if your credit card or auto insurance already covers rental car insurance to save even more

AARP Travel Benefits

• AARP membership ($16/year) unlocks discounts across airlines, hotels, car rentals, and cruises
• AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia offers member-exclusive pricing
• Discounts on guided tours and river cruises through AARP-partnered operators
• Access to AARP travel guides, tips, and destination recommendations
• AARP members can also save on travel insurance policies
• Available to anyone 50 and older (and their spouse at any age on the same membership)

The National Park Senior Pass

• Lifetime pass for $80 (one-time fee) for U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 and older
• Annual option available for $20 per year
• Grants free entry to all 400+ national parks, monuments, and federal recreation areas
• Also covers 50% off amenity fees (camping, swimming, boat launches, etc.)
• One of the best deals in American travel -- pays for itself in a single park visit
• Available at any national park entrance station or online through the USGS

Need Help?

Traveling in retirement should be exciting, not stressful -- and that includes making sure your health coverage travels with you. At Insuras Health Benefits, we help you understand how your Medicare plan works when you're away from home, so you can explore with confidence.

Planning a trip? Contact us for a free consultation to make sure your Medicare coverage has you covered wherever you go.