Must-Have Discounts for Military Families This Year

One of the greatest perks of always carrying your military ID is the unexpected opportunity to pull it out and score discounts when you least expect it. As a military spouse and former military kid, I can tell you that many family adventures and fashion statements have been made possible thanks to military savings.

Now is the perfect time to take note of these discounts and opportunities to do more with less!

Unlocking Perks for Military Families: Your Guide to MWR Discounts and Adventures

Are you looking for a family-friendly resort, maybe a theme park, or ready to hike a mountain without planning every step? The Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) program is a great place to start.

Your local MWR office—likely on your installation—offers discounted tickets and insider tips on savings for Disneyland, golf courses, bowling alleys, National Football League (NFL) games, and more! I’ve personally scored NFL tickets through MWR more than once, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy big events at a fraction of the cost. Each MWR office has up-to-date information on discounts, expirations, and tips for a successful adventure.

MWR’s Outdoor Recreation program is another goldmine for military families. From cabin rentals and paintball to outdoor gear rentals, you’ll find an endless list of curated experiences. They even organize unique local tours, providing transportation, meals, and an itinerary—all at little to no cost. Imagine a scenic train ride, mountain climbing with an expert guide, or a paddleboarding lesson—all just a visit or call away from planning.

And don’t forget DoD MWR libraries! Free e-books through the Libby app and subscriptions to top news outlets are just some of the hidden gems available to military families.

Retail and Everyday Savings: Stretch Your Dollars

Every seasoned military spouse will tell you: It never hurts to ask if a store offers a military discount. Many major retailers have dedicated military savings programs that can be accessed online or in-store. Check out these retailers and their military discount pages:

• Carhartt – Get trusted durable workwear and outdoor apparel with an exclusive 15% discount.
• JCPenney Portraits – Capture precious family moments with discounted photography sessions.
• Kohl’s – Take advantage of 15% savings on clothing, home goods, and more.
• Lululemon – Enjoy 15% savings on high-quality and stylish athletic wear for your workouts and daily comfort.
• Nike – Score a 10% discount on athletic footwear and apparel for the whole family.
• Under Armour – One of the best-offered discounts for military family members to grab top-notch shoes or apparel at a 20% savings!

Cell phone/Internet/Cable providers and electronics and home goods retailers like Apple, Dell, Home Depot, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Comcast provide great savings opportunities for military families. Always ask before you check out—you might be surprised how much you can save!

Entertainment and Dining: Fun on a Budget

Whether it’s a family movie night, a special dinner out, or an exciting live event, military families can find great discounts to make fun more affordable. AMC Theatres and Regal Cinemas offer discounted movie tickets, while chain restaurants like Outback Steakhouse and The Original Pancake House provide military meal deals all year round. Keep an eye out for big-name attractions and restaurants like Applebees, Cinnabon, Six Flags, and Subway that have special promotions for military families throughout the year.

One of the best military perks out there, and one I’ve used recently to catch an NBA game, is Vet Tix, a nonprofit that provides free or discounted tickets to concerts, sporting events, and more. If you’ve never checked them out, you could be missing out on amazing entertainment opportunities scheduled in your area.

Make the Most of Your Military Perks!

Military life comes with challenges, but the perks are worth taking advantage of. Whether planning a vacation or enjoying a night out, these discounts help stretch your hard-earned dollars. Make it a habit to ask about military savings wherever you go—you might be surprised at the hidden deals waiting for you!

For more ways to save, visit Military OneSource and your local MWR office to stay updated on the latest discounts. Happy saving!

By: Angela Sablan Tenorio, Content Manager