Government Travel
Military Travel
Military Travel is a way of life for those serving in the armed forces. One of the additional benefits of serving is highly affordable options for leaves and vacations. Each branch of the military has special convenient and inexpensive temporary housing facilities, hotels, guesthouses and resorts around the world that service members can take advantage of.
Various lodging accommodations are offered to armed service and civilian personnel on official orders. There are two general types of lodging available for military travel:
- On-base lodging
- Armed Forces Recreation Centers.
On-base lodging is very affordable but available only as space permits. Armed forces recreation centers provide luxurious accommodations and affordable rates in some of the most sought after locations in the world. The military has a resort site within Walt Disney World called Shades of Green. Guests are within walking distance of the park and are afforded transportation and advance entry to many events. Resorts are also located in Hawaii, Tokyo, and worldwide. Each recreation center has its own procedures for reservations and eligibility, so one must reference the resorts website or seek a military travel agent for assistance.
The benefits extend into the commercial arena as well. Travel agents and online travel guides feature a variety of vacation airfare and hotel packages and cruises at a significant discount for armed services personnel. Some airlines have significant discounts on airfare for service personnel. They can find discounted and free admission at a variety of attractions nationwide.
Offering discounts when traveling is a part of the commitment individuals make to serve our nation, so that service personnel can take the rest and relaxation they have earned. Each branch of the armed services offers its own unique lodging opportunities and locations.
When you travel it’s usually on orders. Those orders will state the destination, tell you when to report, when to depart, give specific authorizations, and will have an accounting code. You must carry your orders, at all times, when you travel
Your travel entitlements will include transportation to the location. If you’re traveling to a site for training and returning to your command your transportation will be for the round trip. You will get transportation at the location, if it’s necessary. You will be authorized to be lodged either on-base or off-base in a suitable facility. Meals and incidental expenses will also be covered.
You can be reimbursed for expenses by filing a travel voucher within five days of your return. You must attach a copy of your orders, transportation stubs or receipts, lodging receipts, and any unused tickets. You may get a government travel card, but remember it is to be used for official travel only. This travel card has been misused in the past so don’t even think about using it for anything, but authorized travel.
Travel can be a pleasant experience if you just follow proper procedures.
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