Service members and their families can travel free or at reduced costs through the space-available travel program. However, flying through them can be challenging if you need the right strategies.
Here are seven essential tips to help you navigate your next military vacation:
Know Your Limits
Unlike commercial flights, military flights are often “no-frills.” Besides the crew, you and your dependents are responsible for food and drink.
Bring snacks and plenty of reading material for your time in the terminal. Earplugs are a must, too. And remember that the mission of a flight always takes precedence over accommodating passengers.
Be Flexible
Most airlines have military programs that offer discounted airfares. Some also have frequent flyer accounts that can earn you free tickets over time. Check with individual airlines to see which programs are available and how they combine with military discounts.
In addition, armed forces flights travel provides military personnel and their families with affordable and convenient transportation options for official duty and personal travel.
Some people are reluctant to try some flights because they’ve heard you must wait a lot or the planes always have maintenance issues. But it can be worth the extra effort if you’re flexible and know what to expect.
Be Prepared
Many military travelers are reluctant to use flights because of the cost, especially during peak holiday travel. But it can be a great option if you know how to plan.
During Roll Call, ensure you’re travel-ready with checked baggage and required documentation. Then, wait in the terminal until the flight is selected.
Eligible service members, retirees, and their families are prioritized for military aircraft seats during Cat 1 and Cat 2. Travelers on environmental morale leave or ordinary leave and house-hunting permissive temporary duty (TDY) are Cat 3.
Bring the Right Gear
Military families can save on flights by utilizing the travel program. However, there are better options for some.
Bring your Department of Defense (DoD) ID card, a photo ID for yourself and any accompanying family members, and a travel itinerary.
Active-duty military and DoD civilians are eligible for TSA PreCheck, which expedites security screening. You also get a free baggage allowance on TDY or R&R travel and preferred boarding.
Be Prepared for Delays
Military flights do not always stick to their schedule, especially if you’re traveling OUTCONUS. Force protection concerns, weather conditions, and other unexpected issues can change flight plans.
Stay on top of your travel status by tracking the flight schedule for the departure base(s) you’re planning to visit and checking for updates up to Roll Call time, the point at which passenger terminal staff announce passengers selected for the mission.
Be Prepared for Alternate Routes
Many service members are reluctant to use military flights because they hear stories about waiting around, aircraft with mechanical issues, or even canceled flights. But if you’re willing to be flexible, military flights can offer a great way to see the world at no cost.
Military aircraft are bare bones and can be cold or hot, so dress in layers. Food is served on only some flights. And, because of force protection concerns, some AF flights may be rerouted for mission requirements.
Be Prepared for Unscheduled Changes
Many service members and families rely on military flights for travel. The program allows service members and their immediate families to fly free or at a reduced cost.
But flying off some of them can be frustrating, especially when the flight goes differently than planned. Here are some tips to help you maximize your Air Force travel experience.
Be Prepared for the Weather
When you’re an active service member, traveling can be an expensive and time-consuming experience. Whether you’re heading home for the holidays or visiting a loved one in the hospital, military travel isn’t always easy.
Fortunately, the program offers service members and their immediate families the opportunity to fly free or at a reduced cost across the country or the world.
Be Prepared for the Terminal
While military passenger terminal staff are generally courteous and helpful, they often don’t have the most up-to-date information. Force protection takes priority over accommodating passengers, and flight schedules are subject to change at any time.
On your day of travel, make sure to be “manifested” — luggage in hand, car parked, and paperwork signed — at the terminal at least an hour before Roll Call for your desired flight. Check your terminal’s flight information regularly, as the flight schedule and Roll Call times can change without notice.
