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10 Holiday Shopping Strategies to Get the Most from Veteran Discounts

The deals are out there but you need to be smart to land the best ones

Laurence Minsky,

AARP Veteran Report

Published November 22, 2023

military dog tags that say twenty percent off

Paul Spella

For those who served our country, the holidays are a special time, a season of caring, togetherness, and giving. Most have been deployed at least once during this special time and know what’s it’s like being far away from home — when the call of friends and family are at its strongest.

As a result, veterans want to make the most of the holidays. And thanks to hard-earned military discounts, this special season can be more affordable.

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Here are some ways to shop smart and make the most of military discounts.

1. Research before you buy

A strategy smart shopping is to research before making any purchase. The holidays are no exception. Always inquire if a store offers a discount for veterans. It is not always prominently advertised.

Websites such as ID.me and Military.com maintain comprehensive lists of businesses that honor veterans with special offers.

You can start there to generate gift ideas and identify where you can apply your discounts. You’ll find these sites and their lists to be invaluable when you want to make your holiday spending go further.

2. Double up your discounts

To really maximize savings, combine your veteran discounts with ongoing sales or promotions.

For instance, imagine finding your favorite pants on sale and then applying an additional 15 percent discount for veterans on top of that. It's a surefire way to get more for your money and treat your loved ones to quality gifts without breaking the bank.

Be sure to ask if you can apply your veteran discount to sale items. Not all retailers allow it — reward those who do with your business.

3. Plan your holiday travel

Veterans can save a significant amount on holiday adventures. You can find special rates on everything from amusement parks and rental cars to cruises, casinos, hotels, resorts, and more. Be sure to check with these businesses in advance for any veteran-specific deals. We recently selected 28 great travel deals, along with 10 amazing hotel and lodging discounts.

4. Dine Out Smartly

The holidays often involve gathering at restaurants to dine with family and friends. Many offer military discounts.

From fast-food joints to fine dining establishments, you should be able to find at least one tasty location that offers a veteran’s discount.

5. Frequent base exchanges and Class Six stores

Don't forget to use the tax-free shopping privileges available to veterans on military bases. Base exchanges and Class Six (liquor) stores offer a wide range of goods, from electronics to apparel to spirits, all tax-free. This is a fantastic way to save on a wide range of high-quality gifts and other items for your loved ones.

6. Purchase gift cards

Some retailers who do not offer direct discounts on products offer veterans reduced prices on gift cards. This can be an excellent way to save on future purchases or to give the gift of choice to someone special.

7. Carry your proof of military service

Many retailers require you to prove your military identity when claiming a veteran’s discount. Whether it's a VA card, a DD214, or a government-issued military ID or veteran ID, having these documents on hand ensures a smooth, hassle-free transaction.

8. Think outside the (gift) box

Consider unusual holiday gifts from sporting goods stores, home improvement shops, or even memorable experiences or keepsakes. Jewelry, for instance, can make for a lasting, meaningful gift that may also come with a discount for veterans.

9. Shop smart online

Online retailers also offer veteran discounts. Look for platforms such as ID.me or SheerID, which are gateways to finding online businesses that honor veterans with special offers.

10. Stay updated

Keep yourself informed on discounts and promotions for veterans — the offers can change from year to year. Consider joining a military-focused discount forum, newsletter, or app to stay up to the minute on the best deals available to veterans.

Bottom line

By following these simple tips and being proactive in receiving your veterans’ discounts, you can make your holiday shopping much more affordable.

Planning always helps so start now to make sure you can get the most back as a thank you for your service and sacrifices.

Laurence Minsky is a professor at Columbia College Chicago and has written over 10 bestselling books, most of them on marketing and advertising. He is deeply involved in the military veteran space, including advising AARP and advance the missions for a wide range of veteran non-profit and healthcare organizations.

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