Senior Discounts While Traveling

Many senior citizens look forward to their "golden years." They want to travel because they have dreamed of it, planned for it, saved for it and they are ready for it. There are many discounts available to them based merely on their age. There are discounts offered in some memberships such as AARP and AAA. When traveling, there are discounts available on plane flights, on hotel stays, on car rentals and even on cruises. There are even free cruises offered to single, older men to serve as escorts/companions/dance partners to older women who are on the cruise unaccompanied.

Airports are trying to make up to the passengers the additional charges the airline has for baggage and beverages and food by offering free services. Airports in Texas, Iowa and North Carolina offer 30 minutes of free parking. Los Angeles International Airport offers complimentary shoe shines, and in Fort Wayne, Indiana, volunteers offer cookies to those leaving the planes.

It is important to remember that a senior discount may not be the lowest price available. To avoid that, first, ask or search the internet for the lowest possible rates and then negotiate the discount from that rate.

Another way to take advantage of lower prices, is ask about different departure times for a lower rate. Package discounts are given at theme parks if you stay at a hotel on the grounds. You can get better prices if you call the hotel directly. If you go through a reservation line, they won't be able to cut prices. If you have a choice, train travel is cheaper and has better senior discounts.