Posted on 27 September 2019

Reaching 60 gives you access to a wide array of travel discounts. The perks extend way past simply picking up your bus pass: explore mainland Europe by rail for less; enjoy cut-price camping; and take to the seas with various over-60s discounts.

Free passport

If you were born on or before September 2, 1929, getting a passport for the first time or renewing is free. You can apply online, or at the Post Office - which offers a free check-and-send passport service.

Overseas holidays

Being over-60 means you're entitled to a vast range of special deals. Alongside specialist 50+ travel agents such as Saga, there are great offers with firms like Shearings Coaches and Virgin. Search for deals online.

Camping and Caravanning Club

Over-60s can get an impressive 25% off Club Site pitch fees when it's not high season. You'll have to be a member first: take along ID to any Club site.

campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

Air fares

Dynamic pricing, which involves charging early bookers less and late bookers more, now dominates the airline industry. This has put paid to most senior discounts, but a few established operators still have them. However, the discounts can be rather modest. The best way to save on air fares is to book a long way in advance.

Overseas rail journeys

Planning to explore mainland Europe by rail? There are a host of great discounts for older travellers. For travel in France, you can apply for a Carte Senior (£58.50 in the UK) - which is similar to a Senior Railcard.

In Italy you can purchase a Carta d'Argento at any railway station - just take along your passport.

In Belgium you can simply get a senior discount when you book - just make sure you are carrying proof-of-age ID when you travel.

In Spain over-60s can also buy a senior railcard, called a Tarjeta Dorada (Gold Card). This costs 6 euros and gives discounts of up to 40%, depending on the day of travel and the route.

Interrail tickets

Think Interrail is for youngsters? Think again! As an over-60 you can enjoy 10% off - for either first or second class travel.

https://www.interrail.eu/en/deals/interrail-senior-discounts

Ferries

Saga runs over-60s deals with several ferry operators - namely P&O, Brittany Ferries and Stena Line. A 5-10% discount is available for trips to France and Spain booked through Saga.

For those who fancy a trip to Newhaven or Dieppe with LD Lines/DFDS Seaways, a discount of up to 20% is available for over-60s at Ldlines.co.uk.

Museums and other attractions

Many art galleries, museums and leisure attractions offer discounts for over-60s. Be sure to take along your passport or other form of ID. Senior discounts are not always clearly displayed - so it's worth asking.

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