What Is American Forces Travel?
If you’re in the military or part of a military family, you’ve probably heard about American Forces Travel (AFT). But what exactly is it? Simply put, it’s a program created specifically for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families to access exclusive travel deals. Think discounted vacations, affordable flights, and even special event tickets—all in one user-friendly platform.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a full-fledged family vacation, American Forces Travel could be your golden ticket to saving money while traveling in style. Let’s dive into how this program works and why it’s a must-use for eligible members.
How Does American Forces Travel Work?
American Forces Travel operates as a collaboration between the Department of Defense (DoD) and Priceline. This partnership allows military members to book travel at discounted rates through a secure online platform. From booking a beachfront resort to snagging tickets for a Broadway show, the platform offers a wide range of travel-related services.
Here’s what you can expect when using the platform:
Key Features:
- Discounted Flights: Save big on both domestic and international airfare.
- Hotel Deals: Access thousands of hotels worldwide with significant discounts.
- Cruise Packages: Book luxurious cruises at military-exclusive prices.
- Event Tickets: Enjoy discounted access to concerts, sports events, and more.
- Rental Cars: Find affordable car rental deals with no hidden fees.
Using American Forces Travel is simple—create an account, verify your eligibility, and start exploring the endless travel options available.
Who Is Eligible for American Forces Travel?
Eligibility is a big question for many. The good news? The program is designed to benefit a wide range of military personnel and their families. Here’s a breakdown:
- Active-Duty Service Members: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel.
- Retired Military Members: Those who served and retired honorably.
- Veterans: Honorably discharged veterans with a valid ID.
- Reserve Members: National Guard and Reservists are also included.
- Immediate Family Members: Spouses and dependents of eligible members.
- DoD Civilians: Department of Defense employees.
Not sure if you qualify? A quick visit to the site’s eligibility verification tool will clear things up.
Why Use American Forces Travel?
1. Savings That Add Up
Travel expenses can be steep, but American Forces Travel slashes those costs with exclusive military discounts. Whether it’s 20% off a hotel or 50% off a cruise, the savings are significant enough to make a real difference in your travel budget.
2. Convenience
The platform combines everything you need—flights, hotels, rental cars, event tickets, and more—under one roof. No need to visit multiple sites or haggle over prices.
3. Trustworthiness
Since the platform is backed by the DoD and Priceline, you can book with confidence, knowing your information is secure.
4. Special Offers
AFT often features limited-time deals for major holidays or peak travel seasons. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to score even bigger discounts.
Top Tips for Making the Most of American Forces Travel
Want to get the best bang for your buck? These tips will help you maximize your savings and enjoy a seamless booking experience.
- Book Early: The best deals often sell out quickly, so plan ahead.
- Be Flexible: Traveling mid-week or during off-peak times can save you even more.
- Use Filters: The platform’s filters help you zero in on exactly what you need—whether it’s pet-friendly hotels or nonstop flights.
- Check Often: Deals are updated regularly, so revisit the site to catch new offers.
- Read Reviews: Leverage Priceline’s integrated reviews to ensure you’re booking high-quality options.
FAQs About American Forces Travel
1. Is American Forces Travel only for active-duty military members?
No! The platform is open to a wide range of users, including veterans, retirees, reservists, and DoD civilians.
2. How do I verify my eligibility?
Simply create an account on the AFT website and follow the prompts to confirm your military or DoD status.
3. Are there fees to use the platform?
No, using American Forces Travel is completely free. You’ll only pay for the travel services you book.
4. Can I cancel or modify bookings?
Cancellation and modification policies vary depending on the provider. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of each booking.
5. Are the discounts really worth it?
Absolutely! Many users report saving hundreds of dollars per trip, especially on hotels and cruises.
Success Stories: Real-Life Savings with American Forces Travel
To illustrate the platform’s value, here are a few examples of how military members have used it:
- The Johnson Family saved $500 on a week-long resort stay in Hawaii.
- Veteran Mike Davis booked a cruise for 40% less than the advertised price.
- Airman Sarah Lee scored tickets to a major league baseball game at half the cost.
These stories highlight how AFT transforms dream vacations into affordable realities.
Conclusion: Why Every Military Family Should Use American Forces Travel
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, American Forces Travel offers unbeatable value for military members and their loved ones. With discounts on everything from flights to event tickets, it’s a one-stop shop for affordable travel.
Don’t miss out on these incredible perks! Head to American Forces Travel today and start planning your next adventure.
Authoritative Sources for Further Reading:
- Department of Defense American Forces Travel Program: www.defensetravel.dod.mil
- Priceline Military Discounts: www.priceline.com/military
- Official AFT FAQ Page: www.americanforcestravel.com/faq
