Flying for duty or planning a well-deserved vacation? If you’re an active-duty military member, veteran, or dependent, you might be eligible for exclusive military discounts on flights. From free checked bags and waived fees to reduced fares, several airlines offer generous perks that make military travel more affordable and less stressful.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about getting military discounts on flights in 2025. We’ll cover which airlines offer the best perks, how to verify your military status, and what baggage benefits you can expect. Whether you’re traveling on orders or just heading home, this article is your boarding pass to smarter, cheaper travel.
Do Airlines Offer Special Military Discounts on Flights?
Yes—many airlines offer special military benefits, including discounted or flexible fares, waived fees, and priority boarding. These perks are designed to support active-duty military, retired military, veterans, and sometimes even immediate family members.
However, military discounts on flights vary widely by airline. Some offer military pricing through their websites or via phone bookings, while others only provide benefits for those traveling on orders or verified through services like ID.me or Veterans Advantage.
Which Airlines Offer the Best Military Baggage Benefits?
Baggage benefits are often where the best value lies for military customers traveling. Several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and United, offer free checked bags to active-duty military customers. For example, Delta offers waived baggage fees for up to 5 free checked bags if you’re traveling on military orders.
Some carriers even go further, allowing bags of up to 70 pounds, well above the standard limit. These baggage benefits can save hundreds of dollars on each flight, especially for those moving between assignments or bringing gear.
Can Active-Duty Military Members Get Waived Baggage Fees?
Absolutely. Most U.S. carriers have specific policies in place to support active-duty military members. Whether you’re traveling on official orders or personal time, you’re typically eligible for at least 2 free checked bags.
United, American, and Delta are among the carriers that offer free checked bags and sometimes even a free carry-on or free personal item. It’s important to check each airline’s policy on weight and size restrictions—some offer waived overweight fees as well for bags up to 50 pounds or even bags of up to 70 pounds.
How Do Military Fares Work?
Military fare pricing isn’t always visible on airline websites. These rates are often offered via direct customer service, at the ticket counter, or through authorized military travel agencies. In some cases, they may not be cheaper but come with better flexibility, like waived change fees or better refund options.
Some special military fares are exclusive to active duty and military personnel traveling on military orders. These fares typically include baggage perks and more flexible booking policies. If you’re looking for the lowest airfare, it’s worth comparing military fare options with standard promotional rates before you book a flight.
What’s the Policy on Military Working Dogs and Checked Pets?
Airlines recognize the importance of military working dogs and other military and police dogs used in official duties. Most carriers allow checked pets related to military service under special provisions, and some offer waived pet fees if documentation is provided.
These policies usually apply only when traveling on orders. If you’re relocating or deploying, check in advance to confirm weight limits, crate dimensions, and other details. For personal pets, even active-duty service typically won’t get you a discount, unless part of a documented relocation.
Perks When Booking Flights on Orders
If you’re traveling on military orders, you unlock a host of special benefits. In addition to free checked bags, airlines often offer discounts on airfare, free boarding pass printing, priority boarding, and sometimes access to lounges like the United Club.
Booking while on orders is typically handled through the Defense Travel System (DTS) or DoD-approved travel agencies. These bookings ensure your military fare includes all applicable perks and meets the standards for official travel reimbursements.
Are Dependents Eligible for Military Flight Discounts Too?
Yes, in many cases. Some airlines offer discounted military rates to dependents traveling with or independently of a military member. Policies vary widely, so having a military dependent ID and verifying your relationship is essential.
For example, Delta Vacations extends deals to veterans and their families, while other airlines offer special military pricing to military dependent travelers. Be sure to confirm whether the discount applies at the time of booking, and always carry supporting documentation when traveling.
Airlines That Offer Military Benefits in 2025
Several major airlines stand out in 2025 for their continued commitment to the military and government community. Among them:
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American Airlines – Offers military baggage perks and flexible military fare policies.
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Delta Air Lines – Proud to offer military rates, free checked bags, and partner benefits through Delta Vacations.
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United Airlines – Known for allowing 5 free checked bags for active-duty military when traveling on orders.
These carriers not only offer special military programs but are consistent in their support of veterans and retirees, active-duty, and National Guard members.
Ready to take full advantage of military flight discounts? Contact us to find updated airline deals and travel perks just for you.
Do You Need a Valid Military ID at the Time of Booking?
In most cases, you don’t need a valid military ID at the moment of booking, but you must present it at check-in or boarding to receive your benefits. For online bookings, you may be asked to verify through a platform like ID.me, which confirms your military status before issuing perks.
Always double-check airline requirements if you plan to use military baggage privileges or seek military fare flexibility. Bringing the right ID or documentation avoids delays and ensures you receive all available military benefits.
Book Through Travel Agencies or DoD Resources?
Yes—and for official travel, you should. When traveling on military orders, bookings must often go through military-approved travel agencies or DoD systems. These agencies are authorized to apply your military status and make sure your travel complies with DoD policies.
For personal vacation travel, sites like Veterans Advantage (formerly Veterans Advantage) or American Express Travel may provide additional perks. These platforms partner with major airlines to offer exclusive access to discounted military medical emergency flights, last-minute fare reductions, and special discounts on airline tickets.
Conclusion
If you’re part of the military and government community, there’s no reason to miss out on valuable travel perks. From free checked bags and reduced airfare to more flexible military fare options, the travel industry continues to recognize and support active-duty, retired military, and their dependents.
Whether you’re traveling on orders or booking a well-earned vacation, knowing how to navigate military discounts on flights puts you in control of your travel experience—and your budget. Just remember to check eligibility requirements, verify your military status, and take advantage of every benefit offered. Your service has earned it.
