If there’s one thing folks our age understand, it’s value. We grew up clipping coupons, watching for deals, and knowing the difference between “cheap” and “smart.”
Wanna know what’s wild? There are dozens of senior discounts out there that most of us over 55 don’t even know exist.
And we’re not talking about a dollar off a cup of coffee. We’re talking big savings — on travel, food, phones, insurance, and everyday errands that add up month after month.
According to AARP, only about 40% of older adults regularly use their available senior discounts, even though they could save hundreds, sometimes thousands, a year. (AARP, 2025)
Everyday Discounts That Keep Our Wallet Happy
You don’t have to wait for “Senior Tuesday” at the grocery store to catch a deal — but hey, if your local store still has one, that’s free money right there.
Here are a few everyday perks worth checking:
Walgreens: 20% off eligible items once a month for Balance Rewards members 55+ — just show your ID or AARP card.
Kohl’s: 15% off every Wednesday for folks 60 and up (yes, it’s still around).
Goodwill: Most stores have Senior Discount Day, usually around 10%–20% off.
Joann Fabrics & Michaels: 15–20% discounts for seniors who still love their crafts and hobbies (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?).
Crazy Tip: Always ask. Most places don’t advertise these deals anymore, but if you politely ask, “Hey, do you have a senior rate?” — you’d be surprised how often the answer is yes.
Travel Discounts Worth Checking
Now, here’s where the savings get fun. If you’ve got the travel bug (and who doesn’t once the kids are grown and work slows down), these AARP travel partners are gold:
Best Western, Wyndham, and Hilton: 10%–20% off room rates for 50+ and AARP members.
Budget and Avis: Up to 30% off car rentals, plus free upgrades when available.
Amtrak: 10% off rail fares for travelers 65+.
British Airways: Exclusive AARP flight discounts on select international routes.
AARP’s Travel Center also partners with Expedia — meaning you can stack those senior discounts on top of online deals. That’s where you can really stretch a dollar.
Dining Out
If you enjoy grabbing a bite out every now and then, these deals are worth knowing:
Denny’s: 15% off with AARP card — and breakfast tastes even better when you save a few bucks.
IHOP: 10% off at most locations (some even have senior menus with smaller portions and smaller prices).
Applebee’s, Perkins, and Golden Corral: Many locations have unlisted discounts — just ask.
Personal experience: I once forgot my wallet at Denny’s, and the waitress smiled and said, “Honey, you’ve got an AARP card? That’s better than cash.” Still makes me laugh.
Phone, Internet & Streaming Deals
Here’s what most people miss out — technology perks for us!
AT&T Senior Nation Plan: Special low-cost plan for 65+ with 200 minutes and unlimited texts.
Verizon 55+ Plan: Discounts for unlimited data plans, starting at around $60 for one line (Florida residents get the best deal here).
Consumer Cellular: Designed for 50+, low monthly rates, and AARP members get 5% off every month.
Paramount+ and Hulu: Offer free trials or discounts for AARP members — perfect for catching up on your shows without overspending.
Crazy Tip: Always double-check your streaming and phone bills every few months. Plans change fast, and companies don’t always tell you when cheaper ones come out.
Health, Wellness & Insurance Savings
Staying healthy shouldn’t break our bank — and that’s where AARP membership really pays off.
LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, and Walgreens Optical: 30% off frames and lenses.
Walgreens & CVS: Ongoing prescription savings through AARP’s Prescription Discount program.
SilverSneakers: Free fitness programs at thousands of gyms across the U.S. for certain insurance holders (worth asking your provider).
And if you’re still working part-time or retired but not on Medicare yet, AARP also offers tools to compare healthcare coverage and supplemental plans.
The Pros and Cons of Senior Discounts
Pros:
Save real money on things you already buy.
Discounts stack with existing promotions or memberships.
Helps stretch your fixed income without cutting joy out of life.
Cons:
Some “senior rates” aren’t the best deal available — compare before buying.
Must show ID or AARP card at checkout.
Some offers are location-based or require online booking.
Personal experience: I once booked a “senior hotel rate” that was higher than a weekend flash sale. Lesson learned: always check twice before clicking “confirm.”
Being older doesn’t just mean being wiser, it means being rewarded for it.
You’ve spent a lifetime working, saving, raising families, and giving back. Why not let a few of those years give something back to you?
Senior discounts aren’t just about saving money; they’re about stretching it far enough to keep doing the things you love.
Friends,
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every dollar saved is another bit of freedom earned. Don’t feel shy or “too proud” to ask for a senior discount — you’ve earned it, fair and square.
“It’s not about pinching pennies. It’s about stretching them — so life keeps feeling full.”
Keep exploring, keep asking, and keep saving. There’s a lot out there if you just know where to look.
With care,
Mike Bridges
Founder, The O55 Report