One of the perks of getting older is qualifying for some extra discounts that weren't available to you before. From hotels and transportation to national parks and attractions, travelers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond have plenty of opportunities to save.
And if you're an AMAC member, don't forget to check your membership benefits before booking your next trip. AMAC's benefits include Travel & Lodging offers that can help members find additional value when planning a trip.
Save on Hotels
Before booking a hotel, always check whether a senior rate is available. Many hotel brands and individual properties, such as Marriott or Wyndham, offer discounted rates to older travelers, although minimum ages and availability can vary.
It's also worth comparing senior rates with membership discounts. Sometimes a membership offer can provide better value than the hotel's standard senior rate, so don't automatically book the first discount you see.
Take Advantage of Amtrak Savings
Prefer seeing the country without spending hours behind the wheel? Amtrak offers travelers age 65 and older a discount on most rail fares, making train travel an option worth considering for your next getaway.
Train travel can be especially appealing for retirees with more flexibility in their schedules. Instead of rushing through an airport or driving for hours, you can sit back and enjoy the journey.
Explore America's National Parks for Less
One of the best travel deals available to older Americans is the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 and older can purchase an annual or lifetime Senior Pass that provides access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. The pass can also provide discounts on certain amenities at participating locations.
If visiting America's national parks is on your travel or retirement bucket list, this is one discount you'll definitely want to know about.
Look for Rental Car and Road Trip Savings
Planning a road trip? Don't assume the advertised rental car rate is the best price available. Check for senior rates, membership discounts, and other special offers before booking.
AMAC's Benefits feature some automotive savings, including AMAC Car Rental, Budget, and Avis. Make sure to compare your options and savings at different companies to find the best rate for your trip.
Ask About Local Transportation Discounts
Your savings don't have to stop once you arrive wherever your destination may be.
Many cities and public transportation systems offer reduced fares for older adults on buses, trains, subways, and other services. Age requirements vary, so research your destination ahead of time and find out whether you'll need identification or a special senior transit card.
Using public transportation can also help you avoid the added costs of rental cars, parking, gas, or rideshares.
Don't Forget Attractions
Museums, theaters, historical sites, zoos, and other attractions may offer discounted admission to older visitors. Always check on the locations website for discounts or call first before booking.
These savings aren't always prominently advertised, but calling ahead can save you time researching and money out of your budget if they have offers available.
Saving a few dollars here and there may not sound significant, but those discounts can quickly add up over a week-long vacation or if you frequent certain attractions multiple times a year.
Your Membership Could Be a Travel Tool Too
Senior discounts aren't the only savings worth looking for. If you belong to a membership organization, check your benefits before booking a trip.
AMAC members can explore the benefits we offer which brings together exclusive savings across travel, everyday purchases, insurance, financial services, health and wellness, entertainment, and more.
That means your AMAC membership can be another tool in your travel-planning toolkit, whether you're looking for ways to save on your trip or simply make your travel budget go a little further.
Always Ask Before You Book
The biggest lesson? Don't assume the price you see is the price you have to pay.
Senior, membership, and other special discounts aren't always advertised upfront. Before booking a hotel, attraction, rental car, or other travel expense, take a few minutes to compare your options.
And before your next adventure, be sure to explore your AMAC Member Benefits to see what travel and everyday savings are currently available.
A few extra minutes of research could mean more money left in your vacation budget and more to spend on the experiences that make traveling worthwhile.
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