Summer on duty: Planning the Perfect Break for Military Families

Written By Hilari Hill

Summer is just around the corner, and for military families, it offers a rare chance to reconnect, recharge, and make unforgettable memories. Whether you’re navigating PCS season or simply trying to plan a much-needed vacation, the good news is this: there are plenty of military-friendly resources to help you do it—affordably.

Here’s your go-to guide for planning a summer filled with adventure, fun, and well-deserved rest.

1. Take Advantage of Blue Star Museums (Free Admission!)

From Arlington to Anchorage, over 2,000 museums across the U.S. offer free admission to active-duty military members and their families from Armed Forces Day (mid-May) through Labor Day through the Blue Star Museums program.

You’ll find:

  • Art and history museums

  • Science centers and aquariums

  • Children’s museums and cultural institutions

Pro Tip: Use the Blue Star Museums website to find participating locations near you—or along your vacation route!

2. Plan a Cruise—Yes, Some Are Free or Discounted!

You might be surprised to learn that some companies offer free or heavily discounted cruises for military personnel and veterans.

  • Vacations for Heroes and GovX Travel regularly promote discounted cruise packages.

  • MSC Cruises offers free cruise fare for kids and discounted military rates.

  • Occasionally, programs like Project Athena and Operation At Ease host sponsored excursions for wounded warriors or military families in need of healing time.

Pro Tip: Book early, and check with MWR travel offices or base agencies for exclusive deals.

3. Space-A (Space Available) Travel: The Ultimate Adventure

If you’re flexible with your travel schedule, Space-A flights are a hidden gem for military families. These flights, operated by the Department of Defense, allow eligible military passengers to fill unused seats—often for free.

Who qualifies?

  • Active duty on leave

  • Retirees

  • Eligible dependents (with proper documentation)

Where can you go?
From Hawaii to Germany, Space-A can take you to bases around the globe.

Pro Tip: Check out the Air Mobility Command (AMC) travel pages and join Facebook groups for real-time updates and advice.

4. PCS Pit Stops or Road Trip Fun

Even if you’re moving this summer, you can still turn your PCS into a family adventure:

  • Plan short visits to national parks (free annual passes available for military families).

  • Use TSP-reimbursed lodging funds creatively—extend your stopover and enjoy the area.

  • Look for Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRCs) like Shades of Green (Disney) or Edelweiss Lodge (Germany).

5. Budget-Friendly Base Resources

MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) offices on base offer:

  • Discounted attraction tickets

  • Equipment rentals (camping, paddleboards, etc.)

  • Day trips and community events

Also, military campgrounds and RV parks offer beautiful, low-cost places to stay across the U.S.

Final Thoughts

Summer is your chance to enjoy the very benefits your service has earned. Whether you’re exploring museums, catching a Space-A flight to paradise, or planning a road trip between duty stations—the military lifestyle can be full of adventure when you know where to look.

So pack your bags, prep your orders, and plan your fun. This summer, let service come with a side of sunshine.

Hilari Hill
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