Jasmine Birtles
Your money-making expert. Financial journalist, TV and radio personality.
All of the discounts, offers and money saving for those in the military
Vicky Parry
26th Mar 2024
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There is absolutely no denying the sacrifice made by people that work in the military. They work away from home, make physical sacrifices, risk themselves in ways most never will and live a life of discipline – often with months spent away from loved ones.
Therefore it makes sense that companies should offer them some perks as way of thanks. From huge car discounts with the likes of Motorfinity, to free travel, we round-up all the best military discounts available in the UK:
Tickets
UK based charity Tickets for Troops provide free tickets to members of the Armed Forces for a variety of sporting, musical and cultural events. The service offers serving personnel the well-deserved opportunity to enjoy an event of their choice with their friends and families. Since their inception in July 2009, Tickets For Troops has proudly distributed over 2.1 million tickets to members of the Armed Forces, granting them access to a wide array of events throughout the UK.
Travel
The Services Oyster Card
Did you know that certain ex-armed forces personnel could be entitled to a fantastic perk that could save them big bucks on travel in London? It’s all thanks to the Veterans Oyster photocard, and the best part? It’s absolutely free!
If you’re receiving ongoing payments from the War Pensions Scheme or a guaranteed income payment under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, you’re eligible to snag this valuable photocard. With it, you can enjoy complimentary and discounted travel across the vibrant streets of London.
To claim yours, simply get in touch with Transport for London (TFL) and request an application form. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make your commute lighter on your wallet.
- Free travel at any time on London buses, London Underground, London Overground, DLR, tram and TFL Rail.
- Free London travel on most National Rail services on weekends and from 9.30am on weekdays. There are some routes that can be travelled on for free before 9.30am – see Veterans Oyster photocard for included routes.
- Discounted Emirates Air Line fares.
- Discounted River Services fares.
Rail
Attention all serving members of the armed forces, as well as their spouses, husbands, wives, and dependent children—have you heard about the fantastic HM Forces Railcard? This exclusive card grants you a whopping one-third off most rail fares throughout the UK for an entire year.
But wait, there’s more! War widows, widowers, and their dependants receiving an armed forces pension are also eligible to enjoy the benefits of this railcard.
For detailed information regarding the Forces Railcard, including pricing details and the substantial savings you can pocket, simply visit the official HM Forces Railcard website at www.hmforces-railcard.co.uk.
If you’re a war widow or widower, fear not! You can still obtain a railcard through the Royal British Legion. Reach out to Legionline at 08457 725 725 (operating hours: Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm), shoot them an email at [email protected], or visit their website at www.britishlegion.org.uk.
Please note that veterans are ineligible to apply for this particular railcard.
Flights
Virgin Atlantic support members of the UK Armed Forces community by offering a military discount to help make their flights even better.
You can redeem your discount by registering with the Defence Discount Service, the official MoD discount service for the Armed Forces, veterans and Armed Forces community.
This discount is only available for flights departing the UK. MoD discounts are not available for Economy Light or sale fares.
Cars
Motorfinity provides exclusive discounts on the newest models of cars from top manufacturers. Their extensive network ensures discounts with all major brands. Individuals who have served in HM Armed Forces, Reserve Forces, HM Armed Forces Veterans, UK Visas and Immigration, MOD Civil Servants, NATO personnel in the UK, and Cadet Forces (over 18) can take advantage of exclusive military deals where you could save an average of £7,000 on your brand new car. It’s their way of giving back for your service. Explore Motorfinity’s sought-after special military offers or reach out to enquire about savings on any other car make or model.
Discount Schemes
Defense Discount Service
This is a card that you can send off for. With over 12,000 discounts available both online and in-store from major national retailers and local businesses across the UK, Defence Discount Service is your go-to destination for savings. Whether you’re shopping for holidays, cars, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones, and more, you’ll find unbeatable deals tailored just for you.
But wait, there’s more! Members also enjoy a whopping 60% off coach travel across the UK with National Express, making exploring the country more affordable than ever.
Signing up is a easy and it won’t cost you a penny to access the online offers. Plus, for those looking for extra perks, Defence Discount Service offers the Defence Privilege Card. For just £4.99, valid for a generous 5 years, this card unlocks additional discounts at participating high street shops, restaurants, cinemas, and venues nationwide.
Blue Light Card
The Blue Light Card is an exclusive discount service tailored for both the emergency services and armed forces personnel!
For £4.99, membership unlocks a treasure trove of discounts, offering thousands of incredible deals both online and in-store. From major national retailers to beloved local businesses, members can enjoy savings across a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones, and so much more.
How have i just found your site?! It should be as used as gov.Uk – this info is so good