What Is American Forces Travel?
If you’re a member of the U.S. military or a family member, chances are you’ve faced the unique challenge of finding budget-friendly travel options. Well, American Forces Travel (AFT) might just be your ticket to hassle-free, affordable vacations. This exclusive travel program was designed specifically for the military community, offering discounted rates on everything from flights to cruises.
But wait—what sets American Forces Travel apart from other travel sites? How do you get started? Let’s dive in and explore all you need to know!
What Is American Forces Travel, and How Does It Work?
American Forces Travel is an official DoD (Department of Defense) leisure travel website. Launched in 2019, this program was developed in partnership with Priceline to provide military members and their families with exclusive access to discounted travel services. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
- Flights: Domestic and international airfare at discounted prices.
- Hotels: Access to thousands of hotel deals worldwide.
- Rental Cars: Affordable car rentals from top providers.
- Cruises: Discounted cruise packages to dream destinations.
- Vacation Packages: Bundle and save on multi-service trips.
To use the service, all you need is proof of eligibility. Once verified, you’ll gain access to incredible deals tailored specifically for the military community.
Who Can Use American Forces Travel?
Not everyone can jump on the AFT bandwagon—it’s designed exclusively for eligible users. So, who qualifies? Here’s the breakdown:
- Active Duty Military Members: Including Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force.
- Guard and Reserve Members: Currently serving members of the National Guard and Reserves.
- Retired Military Members: Enjoy the perks of service even after retirement.
- Eligible Family Members: Dependents of qualifying military personnel.
- DoD Civilians: Some civilian employees of the Department of Defense are eligible too.
If you’re unsure about your status, simply visit the American Forces Travel website to check eligibility.
Why Choose American Forces Travel?
You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal about AFT?” Here are some compelling reasons to give it a try:
1. Unbeatable Discounts
Military discounts are no joke! With savings of up to 60% on travel services, AFT often beats the rates you’d find on other mainstream platforms.
2. One-Stop Shop
From booking flights to planning cruises, everything you need is available in one place. This convenience is a game-changer for busy military families.
3. Exclusive Access
Because it’s tied to the DoD, you’ll find deals that aren’t available to the general public. It’s like having a VIP pass to travel savings.
4. Supports Morale Programs
A portion of the revenue generated goes back to support morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) programs. So, every trip you book helps fund valuable community initiatives.
How to Get Started with American Forces Travel
Getting started with AFT is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to unlock your travel discounts:
- Visit the Official Website
Head to AmericanForcesTravel.com to begin. - Verify Your Eligibility
The site uses a secure system to confirm your status as a qualifying military member or dependent. - Search for Deals
Once verified, you can browse flights, hotels, and more at exclusive discounted rates. - Book Your Trip
Use the platform to book and manage your travel plans with ease.
Tips to Maximize Your Savings
Ready to stretch your travel budget even further? Keep these tips in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Booking early often results in better deals and more options.
- Compare Prices: Even with AFT discounts, it’s a good idea to check prices on other platforms for comparison.
- Bundle Services: Use vacation packages to combine flights, hotels, and rental cars for maximum savings.
- Watch for Deals: Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or limited-time offers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes American Forces Travel different from other travel sites?
AFT is exclusive to the military community and offers discounts not available to the general public. Plus, it supports morale programs with every booking.
2. Is American Forces Travel free to use?
Yes, there are no fees to access the site or book travel services.
3. Can veterans use American Forces Travel?
Yes, retired military members, including veterans with service-related disabilities, are eligible.
4. Are there restrictions on where I can travel?
AFT offers services for both domestic and international travel. However, always check travel advisories for specific destinations.
5. How do I contact customer service if I need help?
Customer support is available 24/7 through the AFT website. You can reach out via phone or email for assistance.
Why Military Families Love American Forces Travel
Imagine planning a family vacation without the headache of navigating multiple travel sites. With American Forces Travel, everything you need is at your fingertips. Whether it’s booking a flight home for the holidays or setting sail on a dream cruise, AFT makes it all possible—without breaking the bank.
The feedback from military families speaks volumes. Users frequently praise the platform for its ease of use, incredible savings, and exclusive access to hard-to-find deals.
Conclusion: Is American Forces Travel Worth It?
Absolutely! American Forces Travel is a game-changer for military families seeking affordable, convenient travel options. By leveraging exclusive discounts and supporting morale programs, this platform goes above and beyond to serve those who serve.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit AmericanForcesTravel.com today and start planning your next adventure!
Authoritative Links:
- Department of Defense: https://www.defense.gov
- American Forces Travel Official Site: https://www.americanforcestravel.com
- Military OneSource: https://www.militaryonesource.mil