Whether you’re new to military life or a seasoned service member, one thing is clear: learning how to save and stretch your money can help you build savings, reduce debt, and create a more secure future for yourself.
Luckily, there are many simple habits you can adopt while serving that will help you maximize every paycheck.
- Use Military/Service Discounts
- Take Advantage of On-Base/On-Site Services
- Limit Unnecessary Subscriptions
- Cook More, Eat Out Less (or Eat at the DFAC)
- Buy Secondhand or Swap Gear
- Use Free Entertainment Options
- Avoid Lifestyle Creep
- Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping
- Use Credit Card Rewards Wisely (But Pay In Full)
- Buy Generic or Store Brand
- Take Action
Use Military/Service Discounts
One of the biggest perks of military life is access to discounts—on everything from clothing to travel to entertainment. Always ask if a store, restaurant, or service offers a military discount. Many do, even if they don’t advertise it. You can often save 10-20% or more.
Popular military discount programs include:
- Travel & flights (Delta, American Airlines, United)
- Hotels (Marriott, Hilton, IHG)
- Retail stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Under Armour)
- Theme parks & attractions (Disney’s Armed Forces Salute)
- Apps like ID.me and GovX also aggregate thousands of discounts in one place.
Take Advantage of On-Base/On-Site Services
Bases offer a wealth of low-cost or free services: Using these services can save hundreds or thousands of dollars per year compared to civilian equivalents. If you’re stationed overseas, on-base resources can be even more valuable, offering familiar services in a foreign country.
- TGyms and fitness classes
- Libraries with free books, movies, and internet
- MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) events
- Legal assistance
- Auto hobby shops
- Childcare resources
Limit Unnecessary Subscriptions
Subscription fatigue is real. Streaming platforms, subscription boxes, and apps can quietly chip away at your budget.
- Reviewing your credit card statements every quarter
- Canceling any subscriptions you’re not actively using
- Using family plans or military-discounted subscriptions when possible
Cook More, Eat Out Less (or Eat at the DFAC)
Dining out is convenient but expensive. While an occasional treat is fine, frequent takeout can bust your budget. Saving even $50–$100 a week on dining out adds up to $2,600–$5,200 a year.
- Cook meals yourself and meal-prep for busy weeks
- Use the Dining Facility (DFAC) on base when possible—meals are affordable and often healthier than fast food
Buy Secondhand or Swap Gear
Military families often move frequently and outgrow gear fast—whether it’s uniforms, kids’ clothing, or home goods. Buying secondhand is better for your wallet and the planet.
- Shop at base thrift stores, yard sales, and Facebook groups
- Swap items with others on base.
- Check the Airman’s Attic or Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Thrift Shops for free or low-cost goods.
Use Free Entertainment Options
Entertainment doesn’t have to be expensive. Explore:
- MWR-sponsored concerts, movies, and sporting events
- National Parks are free with a military pass
- Libraries and museum partnerships
- Base recreation programs (bowling, golf, outdoor gear rental)
Avoid Lifestyle Creep
As you advance in your military career and your pay increases, it’s tempting to upgrade your lifestyle. But that can erode savings potential. Combat lifestyle creep by:
- Living below your means
- Avoid buying the latest and greatest phone, vehicle, etc
- Setting financial goals and automating savings
Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping
Shopping on base at the Exchange (BX, PX, NEX) or Commissary allows you to buy many goods tax-free, with competitive prices. Always compare prices, but using tax-free shopping strategically can save you 5-10% or more.
- Clothing, electronics, home goods—all without sales tax
- Groceries at lower prices (though you’ll still pay a small surcharge at the commissary)
Use Credit Card Rewards Wisely (But Pay In Full)
Certain credit cards offer generous rewards for military members—often with annual fees waived under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) or Military Lending Act (MLA). Used correctly, credit card rewards can be a smart financial tool—not a debt trap.
American Express® Gold Card is a fantastic example of this.
- Choose a card that aligns with your spending habits (travel rewards, cash back, etc.)
- Pay your balance in full every month to avoid interest
- Redeem rewards strategically—cover travel, holiday shopping, or emergencies
Buy Generic or Store Brand
Military members are often on the move, and small cost-saving habits add up. One simple way: buy generic or store-brand products.
- Store-brand pantry staples, paper goods, cleaning supplies, and even OTC medications are often identical to name brands—but 20–50% cheaper.
- Try different brands to find ones that work for you. Often, you won’t notice a difference except in your wallet.
Take Action
Military life has its financial challenges—frequent moves, deployments, and unexpected expenses. But with smart strategies, you can make the most of your income and build financial security.
By leveraging discounts, using free resources, shopping smart, and avoiding debt traps, you’ll free up funds for what matters most: supporting yourself and your family, achieving your goals, and enjoying your service journey.
Remember: Every dollar saved is a dollar that can work for you—whether in savings, investments, or experiences that enrich your life.
