Photo Courtesy of ECBC
By Maryann Hammers
Before you book your next trip or pack your bags, read on. These deals will help ensure a hassle-free, money-saving journey.
Smarter suitcases
If your laptop and smart devices are your constant traveling companions, you’ll love TSA-friendly ECBC bags : No more frantically unpacking your electronics while going through the security line; no more piling your valuables in TSA bins (and sometimes forgetting and leaving them behind). Instead, electronic devices remain accessible but protected in a padded compartment that unzips, lays flat, and safely passes through the TSA conveyor belt.
Regular prices range from about $120 to $400, but MOAA members get an exclusive 35-percent discounts on backpacks, daypacks, wheeled duffles, and carry-on luggage (use coupon code MOAA35). Or get a 70-percent discount on messenger bags (use coupon code MOAA70). (Some backpacks, such as the one pictured above, convert to a wheeled carryon.)
The above discounts are not valid on clearance items, nor on the Sparrow II wheeled bag, but MOAA members who buy a Sparrow II at full retail price receive a free messenger bag, free power bank (charge your phone and other gadgets even while they are packed away), and free shipping. To get these freebies, add the word “MOAA” on line two of your address, and the items will be included. Call (951) 894-1482.
No more wrinkles
Don’t you hate squashing your nice suits or uniforms in a suitcase? There’s no way to keep them looking freshly pressed. That’s where SkyRoll luggage comes in. These clever carry-ons include a special wrap-around garment bag that prevents wrinkles, so you need not fold (and crush) your dress garments. Regular prices range from about $150 to $300, but MOAA members get an exclusive 50-percent discount on all products. Plus, shipping is free. To get your discount, use code SKYMIL16 when ordering online. The offer is valid through January 2017. For information, email don@skyroll.com.
Speed through security
Members of the U.S. armed forces are eligible for free TSA PreCheck expedited screening, even for personal travel. (A five-year TSA PreCheck membership regularly costs $85.)
TSA PreCheck means you don’t need to remove your shoes, belt, and light jacket when going through security, and you can leave laptops and liquids in your carry-on. Family members under age 12 get the same benefit, free. And you don’t have to be wearing your uniform. Hereis a list of the 180 U.S. airports that support TSA PreCheck.
To get your TSA PreCheck, enter your DoD ID number (on the back of your common access card) as your “Known Traveler” number when making flight reservations. It’s all explained here. If you have questions, you can call TSA Customer Service at (866) 289-9673.
Airline and Amtrak discounts
Many U.S. airlines offer military members discounted fares and/or free checked bags:
Alaska Airlines allows active duty servicemembers up to five checked bags.
Allegiant waives baggage fees for active duty military members.
America Airlines allows active U.S. servicemembers up to three free checked bags.
Delta offers discounted military fares (not available for online purchase; call 800-221-1212).
Frontier Airlines charges no baggage fees to active duty servicemembers.
Hawaiian Air allows two complimentary checked bags to active duty U.S. servicemembers.
Jet Blue allows active duty servicemembers and their immediate family members a special military fare class, and bags can be checked free when you show your DoD common access card.
Southwest offers active duty servicemembers and their dependents military fares (call 800-I-FLY-SWA).
Spirit offers two free checked bags and a free carry-on.
Don’t see your favorite airline listed? Try calling its customer service/reservations desk. Many of these offers are not available on the airline websites.
Prefer taking the train? Amtrak offers active duty U.S. military personnel and their spouses and dependents a 10-percent discount on the lowest-available fare. (Plus, you will be invited to the head of the ticket line.)
Need accommodations?
Several reliable chain hotels offer ongoing military discounts:
RLHC (Red Lion Hotel Corporations) offers military members (active duty, retired, and dependents) up to a 30-percent discount at participating Hotel RL, Red Lion, Red Lion Inn & Suites, Guess House, and Settle Inn hotels. Use promo code MIL and show your valid ID upon check-in.
Red Roof Inns offers a 15-percent discount to veterans and active duty servicemembers and their families through March 31, 2017. Use VP code 606732 when making your reservation.
Active duty and retired servicemembers and their families get up to 10 percent off the best available rate at Hilton Hotels. That includes brands such as Hampton , Home2Suites , Homewood Suites , and Hilton Garden Inn . Book online here and check the “Military Family Rate” box.