Plenty of stores, restaurants, and service providers offer below-the-radar markdowns for folks 55, 60, or 65 and up, but many people never use them simply because they don’t know they exist.
Pepaw may be thrifty, but he’s also wise, and he wants every senior to take advantage of the discounts they’ve earned. Pepaw’s gathered the best senior discounts to help stretch your dollar, whether you’re eating out, shopping, or traveling.
Restaurant Discounts That Help You Dine for Less
Pepaw loves a good breakfast special, and many restaurants offer senior pricing that makes eating out much more affordable. National chains often provide 10–20% off meals for seniors, while others have special menus with lower prices. Some coffee shops and diners also offer discounted beverages or early-bird specials.
Local restaurants frequently participate as well, but you have to ask. Pepaw says most folks are shy about inquiring, but businesses are happy to share the details. A simple question can save you several bucks every meal, and those savings add up fast for anyone who dines out regularly.
He reminds seniors to check for regional deals, as some locations offer extra discounts not listed online.
See Pepaw’s Simple Tricks to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half to stretch savings beyond dining out.
Retail and Grocery Savings for Seniors
Pepaw knows that everyday shopping becomes easier when you know where to find senior markdowns. Many grocery chains offer special discount days where seniors receive a percentage off their entire purchase. These events typically occur once a week, making them an ideal opportunity to stock up on essentials.
Retailers, such as clothing stores, home goods shops, and pharmacies, also offer occasional senior days. Pepaw watches their flyers and emails for announcements, since these deals often fly under the radar.
For drugstore savings, loyalty programs add extra value, and seniors can combine store discounts, rewards points, and senior-day markdowns to get impressive totals at checkout.
To save more on everyday purchases, check Why Pepaw Swears by Buying Generic (and When to Skip It).
Travel Discounts That Make Adventures More Affordable
Pepaw loves a road trip, and he knows seniors can travel for far less with the right discounts. Many airlines, car rental companies, and hotels offer exclusive pricing for guests over a certain age. Senior travel membership programs can unlock even deeper savings on cruises, vacation packages, and guided tours.
Public transportation options often give seniors heavily discounted fares or even free passes, depending on the city. For road travelers, Pepaw checks hotel chains that offer senior rates year-round, usually 10–15% off the nightly stay.
Traveling on weekdays or during off-season windows can push those savings even further.
For cheaper trips and senior-friendly savings, explore Pepaw’s No-Nonsense Guide to Finding Travel Deals.
Entertainment, Memberships, and Services Seniors Should Ask About
Museums, movie theaters, botanical gardens, and national parks frequently offer discounted admission for seniors. Pepaw loves these because they make outings more enjoyable and accessible. Gym memberships, community centers, and educational programs also offer senior pricing that may not always be advertised.
Pepaw suggests asking any service provider, from internet companies to insurance carriers, if they offer senior discount packages or loyalty pricing. You’d be surprised how often the answer is yes.
His rule? “If you’re old enough for a discount, you’re old enough to ask for it.”
