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Wanderlust Educators: Unlocking Adventure on a Teacher’s Budget

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In this post, we’re sharing all the Travel Discounts and perks we are aware of that are specific to educators who love to travel! Did we miss one? If so, please let the community know in the comments. Looking for educator discounts beyond the travel industry? Check out our other post on teacher discounts in every arena.

THANK YOU!

If you’re reading this post, you’re a teacher, and if you’re a teacher, I want to take a moment before hopping into the good stuff, to say THANK YOU! If you’re like me, the best rewards in teaching are the ones no one sees but you. The lightbulb moments of students, the giggle eruptions when you say something witty, the joy of seeing someone try and try and then get it right! Oh, and don’t even get me started on the precious times that they come back, all grown up to make you know you’re remembered! This is the good stuff that keeps us doing what we do, but hey, a little outside recognition is nice too, and we all know there are days in any profession (especially those that work for people over products) that can feel a little thankless. That’s why we have big love in our hearts for companies who value teachers (and military and other public servants) by offering special discounts just for YOU – especially when it comes to the TRAVEL industry!

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As teachers, our passion for learning extends far beyond the school walls. We crave exploration, seeking new horizons to enrich our lives and our teaching. But how do we balance our wanderlust with the constraints of a teacher’s budget? We’ve picked up some tips, tricks and knowledge along the way so we’re here to guide you through the world of affordable travel, empowering you to embrace adventure while honoring your educator’s budget.

Unlocking the Secrets of Affordable Travel:

Plan Strategically:

  • Use Your Breaks Wisely: Maximize long weekends and school holidays for travel adventures. With careful planning, you can stretch your vacation days to explore near and far.
  • Off-Peak Travel: Embrace the beauty of off-peak seasons, where destinations are less crowded, and prices are often more budget-friendly. Of course, our contracts dictate WHEN we get PTO, but there’s always somewhere in the world experiencing off season at any given time!
  • Flexible Dates: Keep an open mind when it comes to travel dates. Being flexible with your schedule (ya know, in the summer) can lead to significant savings on flights and accommodations.

Budget-Friendly Destinations:

    • Explore Local Gems: You don’t have to travel far to experience adventure. Discover hidden treasures in your own backyard, from charming towns to scenic parks.
    • Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Venture off the tourist trail and uncover destinations that offer unique experiences without breaking the bank.

Teacher Travel Discounts:

    • Airlines: Many airlines offer exclusive discounts for educators. From discounted airfare to extra baggage allowances, these perks can make a significant difference in your travel budget.
    • Accommodations: Look for hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals that offer special rates for teachers. Websites like Teacher Travel Discounts and NEA Member Benefits provide valuable resources for finding discounted accommodations.
    • Attractions and Activities: Don’t forget to take advantage of teacher discounts at museums, attractions, and tour companies. Your educator status can unlock savings on cultural experiences around the world.

Travel Giveaways & Codes on IG:

    • Shameless plug, but we host giveaways with brands we work with ALL the time! It might feel like a longshot, but somebody has to win these things, and it might as well be you! We have a giveaway-loving, teacher friend who seems to win trips and discounts all of the time! If you’re not already following @WildPreciousNow on Instagram, we hope you do. And if travel makes you happy, curate your feed to inspire you by following us and other teacher travel creators who host giveaways, offer codes etc. for tips and more ways to save as well!

As educators, we possess a unique blend of curiosity, compassion, and a thirst for knowledge. Let’s harness these qualities to embark on unforgettable travel adventures that enrich our lives and inspire our teaching. With strategic planning, budget-friendly destinations, and exclusive teacher travel discounts, the world is ours to explore. So pack your bags, fellow wanderlust educators, and let’s embark on a journey of discovery together! Here’s a growing list of travel and travel-related discounts for you to check out!

Hotels & Accommodations:

    • Marriott: Teachers can enjoy special rates at participating Marriott hotels worldwide.
    • Hilton: Educators receive discounted rates at Hilton hotels and resorts.
    • Best Western: Teachers can save up to 15% off room rates at Best Western hotels.
    • Choice Hotels: Educators can receive special rates at Choice Hotels properties.
    • Vacation Myrtle Beach: $10 off nightly
    • Wyndham Hotels: 20% off
    • Viking Cruises: bonuses for teachers
    • Disney Cruises up to 6% off
    • Stay Sky Hotels & Resorts up to 25% off 
    • Kimpton Hotels: Special rates for teachers (vary)

 

Airlines & Transportation:

    • Southwest Airlines: Teachers may qualify for discounted fares through the Southwest Airlines SWABIZ program.
    • Delta Airlines: Delta offers special discounts to select education-related organizations.
    • Amtrak: Educators can save 10% on select train routes with an International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC).
    • Greyhound: Teachers can save 10% on Greyhound bus tickets with the First Student program.
    • Avis Car Rentals: Teachers get up to 20% off 

 

Travel Services:

    • STA Travel: Offers exclusive travel deals for teachers, including discounted flights, tours, and accommodations.
    • EF Educational Tours: Teachers can receive discounts on educational travel programs for students.
    • Road Scholar: Educators can save on learning adventures for adults aged 50 and over.
  • Car Rentals:
    • Hertz: Teachers can save up to 25% off base rates with the Hertz Teacher Appreciation discount program.
    • Budget Car Rental: Offers special rates and discounts to educators through the Budget Business Program.
    • Avis Car Rentals: Teachers get up to 20% off 
  • Attractions & Entertainment:
    • Walt Disney World Resort: Teachers can save on select multi-day tickets and hotel stays at Disney World.
    • Universal Studios: Offers discounted tickets to educators through the Universal Orlando Youth Program.
    • Sea World: Free Admission for teachers
    • Museums & Cultural Institutions: Many museums and cultural attractions offer discounted or free admission to teachers with valid ID.
    • Tradewinds Resorts: Get 10% off the best available rate.
    • Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts: Special room rates at the Dolphin and the Swan for teachers only.
    • Westgate Resorts: Get a 10% discount on best available rates.
    • Disney Cruise LInes: Teachers save up to 6%.
    • Kennedy Space Center: Free Admission for teachers
    • Top Golf: Up to 20% off

Remember to check the specific terms and conditions for each discount, as eligibility requirements may vary. Additionally, some discounts may require proof of employment, such as a teacher ID or school email address. You can also check sites like “My Education Discount” and “ID Me” for more on many of these deals! Looking for educator deals BEYOND the travel industry – we’ve got a blog for that HERE.

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Christine & Joel

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Wild Precious Now is all about making the most of your one wild and precious life. We’re passionate about travel,  visual story telling and spreading positivity on the internet. We highlight the places we visit, the people we meet, and the parts of each journey that leave us wonderstruck! If you love to see the world with your eyes wide open, are looking for inspiration to quench your weekend wanderlust, come travel with us! 

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