American Forces Travel

American Forces Travel offers exclusive travel benefits and discounts for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families.

Travel is a vital part of life, helping us explore new places, bond with family, and recharge mentally.

For those in the military, traveling can be expensive and logistically challenging.

That’s where American Forces Travel (AFT) comes in—a program created to support U.S. service members and their families by providing discounted rates, exclusive deals, and helpful resources.

What is American Forces Travel?

American Forces Travel is a travel assistance program specifically for U.S. military personnel, including active duty, retired service members, and their families. The program provides:

Discounted hotels and resorts: Get exclusive rates at hundreds of hotels worldwide.
Cheap airfare: Access to flights at discounted rates.
Car rentals: Save on renting vehicles when traveling domestically or abroad.
Theme park tickets: Affordable entry to Disney, Universal Studios, and other attractions.
Cruises and tours: Special military discounts for cruises, guided tours, and adventure trips.

These benefits are available through partnerships with major travel providers, making it easier to enjoy quality vacations without overspending.

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility is an important part of American Forces Travel. According to official sources like USO.org, those who can use AFT benefits include:

Active-duty military personnel
Reserve and National Guard members
Retired military members
Certain veterans (depending on specific programs)
Immediate family members of service members

It’s important to note that each travel provider may have its own rules, so checking eligibility before booking is essential.

Key Benefits of American Forces Travel:

1. Discounted Hotels

One of the biggest perks of American Forces Travel is discounted hotel stays. Whether you’re visiting major cities or relaxing in resorts, AFT provides access to rates often much lower than standard pricing.

2. Affordable Flights

Airfare can be a major expense for vacations. AFT partners with airlines to provide military members with competitive pricing and occasional promotional offers.

3. Rental Car Savings

From family road trips to official travel, discounted car rentals can save hundreds of dollars per trip. Many major rental companies offer AFT-exclusive discounts.

4. Theme Parks and Attractions

For families, theme parks are a top vacation choice. American Forces Travel provides access to discounted tickets for popular parks like Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and more. According to MilitaryBenefits.info, families can save up to 40% on admission through AFT.

5. Cruises and Guided Tours

AFT partners with cruise lines and tour operators, giving service members and families the chance to enjoy luxurious experiences at affordable rates.

How to Use American Forces Travel:

Using American Forces Travel is straightforward:

Create an account on the official American Forces Travel website.
Verify eligibility by providing military ID or proof of service.
Browse destinations or specific deals for hotels, flights, car rentals, or theme parks.
Select your travel dates and book directly through the portal.
Save money instantly with the exclusive military rates applied.

The portal is easy to navigate and can be used on both desktop and mobile devices, making it convenient for busy service members.

6 Popular Destinations for Military Travel:

According to Military.com, some of the most booked destinations through AFT include:

Orlando, Florida – Famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and kid-friendly attractions.
Las Vegas, Nevada – Entertainment, shows, and resorts perfect for a short getaway.
Hawaii – Beautiful beaches and scenic adventures for the whole family.
Washington, D.C. – Ideal for historical and educational trips.
Europe – Special flight and hotel packages make trips abroad affordable for military families.

Each destination offers tailored discounts, making it easier to explore without financial stress.

Safety and Travel Tips:

Military members often travel for both leisure and duty. Keeping safety in mind is essential:

Always check the travel provider’s cancellation policy.
Register travel plans with the nearest base or military travel office when abroad.
Keep emergency contacts and ID handy.
Research local COVID-19 guidelines or travel advisories.
Use travel insurance whenever possible, even when booking through AFT.

According to Travel.State.Gov, staying informed about local laws and conditions is crucial when traveling internationally.

FAQ:

Q1. Can veterans use American Forces Travel benefits?
Yes, some AFT deals extend to retired service members and certain veterans, depending on the program.

Q2. Are children eligible for discounts?
Immediate family members, including children, often qualify for discounted rates at hotels, theme parks, and attractions.

Q3. How much can I save using AFT?
Savings vary depending on the destination and type of travel, but families can save hundreds of dollars per trip.

Q4. Can I book international trips through AFT?
Yes! Some airlines, cruises, and hotel chains offer international discounts for military travelers.

Q5. Is it hard to use the American Forces Travel portal?
Not at all. The website is user-friendly, mobile-friendly, and designed for quick bookings.

Evidence and References:

Military.com reports that American Forces Travel provides hundreds of dollars in savings annually for eligible service members.
According to USO.org, over 1 million service members and their families use AFT benefits each year.
MilitaryBenefits.info highlights AFT discounts at popular theme parks, hotels, and cruises, making vacations affordable for families.

Rima KH Aliza

American Forces Travel | Why American Forces Travel Is a Game Changer