Planning a summer getaway in 2025? If you’re 50 or older, there’s a good chance you’re eligible for exclusive travel deals that can save you hundreds—sometimes even thousands—on flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more.
Yet many seniors miss out simply because they don’t know where to look.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the best senior travel discounts for Summer 2025, including hidden deals, membership perks, and age-specific offers that make your next adventure more affordable.
Why Summer 2025 Is the Perfect Time to Travel
With pandemic-era restrictions well behind us and inflation starting to cool, 2025 is shaping up to be a travel-heavy year—especially among adults over 50.
According to AARP, more than 6 in 10 older adults plan to travel this summer, with many prioritizing domestic trips, national parks, cruises, and Europe.
But here’s the secret: travel companies are competing harder than ever for your business—and they’re offering generous senior discounts to do it.
Airline Discounts for Seniors
While fewer airlines offer explicit senior fares than in years past, a few still provide savings—especially when you book directly or call customer service.
Airlines offering 50+ deals:
- American Airlines: Offers discounted fares for 65+ on select domestic routes. Call to inquire.
- United Airlines: Some senior fares available (for 65+); book directly at united.com.
- Southwest Airlines: Formerly offered senior fares; now you can often find similar pricing by booking early with Wanna Get Away® fares.
Tip: Join frequent flyer programs—they’re free and sometimes offer early access to special deals or companion tickets.
Rail & Bus Travel Discounts
If you prefer to skip the airport, rail and bus travel offer excellent value for seniors.
Amtrak Senior Discounts
- 10% off most fares for travelers 65 and older
- 15% off for seniors traveling on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief, California Zephyr, and Empire Builder
- Book directly at amtrak.com/seniors
Greyhound & Megabus
- Greyhound: 5% off fares for travelers 62+
- Megabus: Occasionally offers senior promotions—watch their email newsletters for seasonal deals
Hotel Discounts for Seniors
Major hotel chains often offer up to 15% off for guests aged 50 or 60+, especially when you book through their official websites.
Popular hotel senior discounts:
- Marriott: 15% off for 62+
- Hilton: Discounts vary; look for “Senior Rate” when booking
- Wyndham Hotels: AARP members get up to 10% off
- Best Western: Offers senior rates for 55+ guests
Car Rental Discounts for Older Travelers
Booking directly with the rental company and using a membership card (like AARP) can yield major savings.
Best rental car deals for 50+:
- Hertz: Up to 20% off with AARP
- Avis: AARP members save up to 30%
- Budget: Senior discount available when booking online
- Enterprise: While there’s no formal senior rate, weekend deals often match or beat discount rates
Cruise Deals for Seniors
Summer is peak season for Alaska, Caribbean, and Mediterranean cruises—and many cruise lines offer special rates for older adults.
Cruise lines with senior perks:
- Royal Caribbean: Special pricing for 55+ on select sailings
- Carnival Cruise Line: “Senior Cruise Deals” section updated weekly on their site
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Occasionally offers extra onboard credit for 55+ guests
- Holland America: Popular with retirees; offers loyalty bonuses and senior-centered itineraries
Don’t Forget These Overlooked Senior Perks
AARP Travel Discounts
If you’re 50+, you can join AARP and unlock a wide variety of travel deals:
- Hotel and rental car discounts
- Travel insurance savings
- Flight and cruise perks
Visit aarp.org/travel for current deals
National Parks Senior Pass
For just $80 lifetime, adults 62+ can access over 2,000 federal recreation sites.
- Includes free entry for up to four people
- Can be used at Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Acadia, and more
Apply at store.usgs.gov
Quick Tips for Maximizing Senior Travel Deals
- Always ask: Many senior discounts aren’t advertised. Don’t be shy—ask at check-in, on the phone, or at the ticket counter.
- Book early: Senior deals often have limited availability and blackout dates.
- Compare total costs: Sometimes a “discount” rate excludes perks like free breakfast or cancellation flexibility.
- Use stacking strategies: Combine AARP or credit card points with senior pricing to double up on savings.
FAQs About Senior Travel Discounts
Do I need to show proof of age?
Yes. Most senior discounts require a valid photo ID at check-in, boarding, or ticketing.
Can I get senior discounts if I’m 50 but not 60+?
It depends. Some programs (like AARP) are open to 50+, but others (like Amtrak or Marriott) start at 60 or 62.
Are senior discounts better than promo codes or deals?
Not always. It’s smart to compare all available offers before booking.
Travel Smarter—and Save More—This Summer
Traveling in your 50s, 60s, or 70s means you have the freedom to go where (and when) you want. With the right discounts, you can stretch your travel budget further and experience more of what the world has to offer.
Whether you’re hiking in a national park, cruising through Alaska, or exploring European cities, don’t leave money on the table. A simple question—“Do you offer a senior discount?”—could be worth hundreds.
Now is the time to start planning your Summer 2025 adventure—and save while doing it.