Domestic Travel Discounts for Seniors

There are many benefits to those extra candles on the birthday cake… increased wisdom, fewer colds and often a more peaceful life. And why not? With age comes increased freedom and time to experience new adventures. But more candles on your birthday cake also comes with the opportunity to save money! 

Once you hit the magical ages of 55 or 65, a world of travel discounts for seniors opens up!  From reduced entry fees for museums and art galleries to car rental discounts – if you’ve been wondering how to make your money go further while expanding your horizons, here are some of the travel discounts for seniors we found in the U.K., U.S., and Ireland.

Whether you’re in the UK, Ireland or the USA – we’ve collated a list of domestic travel benefits you can take advantage of. Freebird isn’t just about travelling to far-flung destinations; you can also link up with fellow Freebirds of a similar feather in your own country.

To share this experience with someone new, or to get a local’s appreciation of an area, sign up to Freebird Club and start planning your next journey today.

Domestic Travel in the US

As a US citizen over 55, you have a number of options to save money while travelling.

One of the easiest options is to become a member of AARP (Formally the American Association of Retired People). Joining AARP gains you access to a number of discounts across all areas of your life – from shopping, to insurance to travel. You’ll get money off car hire, flights and rail travel.

Quite a few hotel groups also offer senior discounts, although these might need to be researched a bit as it’s not super common.

Airlines such as Delta and British Airways offer discounted flights to over 65’s. Air France offers a senior (over 65) pass which gains you access to exclusive promotions and discounted rates.

If you like travelling by rail and watching the varied countryside pass you by, Amtrak offers a discount for 65 and over, and Eurail follows suit if you want to see the sites of Europe. Alternatively, those who prefer the coach receive discounts on certain destinations from Greyhound.

Many restaurant groups also offer a cheaper meal to the senior traveller – generally tied to AARP membership.

Domestic travel in the UK

The UK offers a large number of benefits to the golden-aged adventurer.

Top of the list is free bus travel. When you hit the state pension age (currently 67) in England, or 60 in Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland – you can apply for your free bus pass, allowing you a hassle free (and cash free) way of traversing your local area and beyond. If you’re in London, you can apply for your London Travel Pass which will also grant you free travel across the capital.

Some say that there’s no better way to see the country than by coach. Numerous tour operators in the UK specialise in coach tours tailored to the interests of mature travellers. These guided tours provide a hassle-free way to discover the country’s highlights, offering comfortable transportation, expert guides, and carefully curated itineraries.

Individuals aged 60 and above can obtain a Senior Railcard, which will get you 30% off train travel. With a Railcard, your discount applies across the week, meaning you can explore the picturesque countryside and charming cities of the UK, or visit friends of family, cheaper.

Heritage sites are welcoming to an older crowd. As well as discounted or free entry to iconic attractions such as Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and the Tower of London – over 65’s qualify for discounted National Trust and English Heritage membership. Museums also offer discounted or free entry to the more seasoned traveller.

Experiencing the broad range of food and drink available across the UK is a great way to wile away the days. Several pub and restaurant chains offer exclusive discounts to the over 50’s – it’s always worth asking when ordering that first drink.

Domestic travel in Ireland

Ireland also offers a great deal to the over 50s who like to explore.

Those aged 66 and above are eligible for a Free Travel Pass, granting them unlimited free travel on public bus and rail services throughout the country. This pass enables seniors to traverse Ireland’s stunning landscapes, visit charming towns, and delve into the country’s vibrant culture.

The Heritage Card, available to all ages, offers free access to over 80 heritage sites and attractions in Ireland, including castles, museums, and gardens. With the large number of sites available, you can explore the country’s rich history and natural beauty at your leisure.

Ireland boasts a strong network of Active Retirement Associations, which organise trips and activities specifically tailored to the needs and interests of mature individuals. These associations offer a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded people and engage in social and recreational activities while exploring Ireland’s stunning landscapes.

There’s also a dedicated Seniors Card which will set you back 50 Euros, but will gain you access to discounted rates across their member network of 750,000 businesses.

The USA, UK, and Ireland all provide a bounty of travel benefits for individuals aged 50 and above. From discounted airfares and special passes to exclusive access to cultural and historical sites, these countries cater to the unique needs and interests of mature travellers.

Whatever your dream, whether the awe-inspiring grandeur of American national parks, immersing yourself in the vast history of the UK, or embracing the unforgettable charm of Ireland, these destinations offer an abundance of unforgettable experiences – and you can save money while enjoying them.

To find a local who can show you their area be it close to home or further afield, join Freebird Club and find your next adventure, today.