Latest news
Big Summer Savings… coming soon!
Between Monday 30th June - Sunday 6th July 2025, we’re turning up the heat on our discounts. This is your invitation to enjoy access to sizzling savings across a range of brands, getting you summer ready for less.
"Discounts and dream getaways "
Now that we’ve left 2024 behind and the new year has begun, many of us will have started to think about our next getaway. No matter what your ideal break looks like, Blue Light Card partners with a wide range of travel and holidays providers Soak up the sun with our scorching beach holiday deals, including offers fromJet2 and Expedia. From the sun to a chillier setting – if you’re looking to hit the slopes in 2025, then check out our ski break offers with Sunweb, IHG and more!
Healthy savings with DDS
We’re partnered with a range of activewear, gym, vitamin and gym equipment brands to bring you exclusive savings and support your 2025 fitness journey. Exercise doesn’t have to be expensive and whether you’re looking to increase your cardio or build your strength, thanks to offers from PureGymand Nuffield Health, you can take the first steps to reach your training goals.
Member Days are back!
We’ve listened to you! In 2025 we have more Member Day events available than ever before, and tickets will go on sale across different dates so that you get more chances to book. Get ready! Tickets go on sale from 12pm Tuesday 4th February, they are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your ultimate getaway awaits!
Unlock amazing holiday discounts with Defence Discount Service! It won’t be long until the festivities are over and you’re dreaming of a well-deserved holiday. Whether it's a relaxing beach escape, an adventurous city break, or a cosy countryside retreat, Defence Discount Service partners with a wide ran
Send a gift card for less this Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’ve left your present shopping to the last minute (we’ve all been there), don’t panic! To save you time, stress, and money, why not send a gift card this Christmas.
Festive finds and savings on the high street
The Christmas season is a magical time to hit the high street. If the festive decorations aren’t enough to get you out and about, then these savings will be.
Save on the festive food shop
Everyone knows the best bit about Christmas is, of course, the food! Whether you’re stocking up on sprouts, need to grab an extra set of wine glasses or just want to pick up some final tasty festive treats, you can save with our exclusive discounts on all the essentials.
Black Friday 2024!
Black Friday is coming… Get ready to save! Can’t wait to complete your Christmas shopping? Saving up to invest in something special?
Advent calendar savings
Like getting your money’s worth? Whether it’s makeup, skincare, fragrance, or even dog treats, advent calendars are a fan favourite during the festive period.
Santa Claus is coming to town...
Too early? Whilst Christmas may still feel as though it’s a distant way away, the festive season will soon be upon us.
"Leading Wren Lola Seton Marsden named Inspirational Women in Defence 2024 "
To celebrate the incredible achievements and dedication of women working in the armed forces community, and for the fourth year running, we opened votes earlier this year on International Women’s Day on the search for this year’s Inspiration With an exceptional service record and an incredible story to tell, we are honoured to crown Leading Wren Lola-Seton Marsden as the winner of this year’s award.
Back to school shop
From growth spurts to scuffs and stains, now’s the time for parents to look for new uniforms, school shoes and equipment ready for the start of the school year. Cut the cost and stock up on all the back-to-school essentials with our exclusive discounts coming soon from 25th July!
Unmissable savings at the Voucher Shop
We’re excited to offer you even more ways to save with the launch of our brand-new Voucher Shop. Save on everyday essentials, monthly treats or gifts for loved ones… and much more!
Celebrate Father's Day
Father’s Day – when dads nationwide receive enough mugs and socks to last a lifetime! As the date fast approaches, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite savings on all types of gifts to give to the father figure in your life this year.
7 companies that hire ex-Forces
Permanently entering civvy street can be a scary time for anyone leaving the Armed Forces. Once you decide it’s time to leave – after years of loyal service to King and country – the next step might be to find work.
Everyday ways to cut your energy bills
With savings on the essentials becoming increasingly important for the Blue Light community, we spoke to personal finance journalist, Ruth Jackson-Kirby. Here are eight tried and tested ways to cut your energy costs.
Get peace of mind with a fixed price energy deal
As energy prices start to fall, Defence Discount Service members will be looking to save as much as they can on their household costs – which might mean switching to a fixed price energy deal. To find out more, we spoke to personal finance journalist, Ruth Jackson-Kirby, for her tips on switching.
Big Saver Weekend...coming soon!
Say goodbye to shorter days and hello to sunshine... spring is coming! To mark the occasion, spring into savings action with our first-ever Big Saver Weekend.
"Nominations for our Inspirational Woman in Defence Award 2024 are open "
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re announcing our fourth annual Inspirational Woman in Defence Award – celebrating the achievements and efforts of women in the armed forces community. As part of the campaign, all members of the British armed forces community are invited to nominate friends, family or co-workers.
New survey reveals veterans lack recognition
Did you know that nearly 75% of veterans feel they are not sufficiently recognised or rewarded by society? Backed by Falklands War veteran, Simon Weston CBE, we can exclusively reveal these survey results following in-depth research of over 11,500 veterans from across the Armed Forces.
London calling?
Half term is over, now it’s time to think about Easter. Whether it’s food, fun or finding somewhere to stay, we’ve outlined the perfect London itinerary to explore everything it has to offer, and get the most out of your Blue Light Card.
Half term days out with Defence Discount Service
With half term just around the corner, there’s no better time to plan some fun-filled family activities to keep the kids entertained. With our range of discounts, there’s so much to do and explore so if you are struggling for inspiration, you’ve come to the right place.
Member Days 2024
Member Days are back! Since 2015, members have had the opportunity to book reduced priced tickets to exclusive days out at Merlin attractions, and 2024 is no different!
Are you eligible for Defence Discount Service in 2024?
As the official discount service of the MoD, we’ve been committed to helping the UK’s armed forces, veterans and defence community save money since 2012. And we’ll continue to do just that in 2024… and beyond!
Celebrating Forces Families Awards 2024
We’re delighted to once again be a sponsor at the Celebrating Forces Families Awards. Hosted in London on 26th April 2024, the awards recognise the contributions, achievements and successes in the lives of the Armed Forces community and their families.
Black Friday 2023
Black Friday is coming… and we’ll be ready! Can’t wait to complete your Christmas shopping? Saving up to invest in an essential?
Our Big Advent Calendar Giveaway is back!
We're getting in the festive spirit early with our annual Big Advent Calendar Giveaway! It's back for 2023!
Last chance to get your Member Days tickets!
Want to experience a roarsome day out at Chessington World of Adventures Resort?! This is your last chance to get exclusive Member Day tickets!
Attention... 100 sleeps until Christmas
Santa's ready for action and the elves have passed their inspections, which means Christmas is on the horizon! That's right, there's only 100 sleep until Christmas Day!
Nine habits of British Armed Forces life you never lose
Armed Forces life teaches you a lot... ...which is a bit of an understatement when you consider the variety of careers in the military, and the transferrable skills it gives you when you move to civilian life.
Five heroic dogs from British Armed Forces history
From mascots in ceremonial roles to frontline support, there is a proud history of dogs serving in the British Armed Forces. To celebrate International Dog Day 2023, we’re sharing the stories of five heroic dogs from British military history.
The savings you love the most
Helping you make the most of your money is the key reason why we do what we do. We work with thousands of companies across the UK (from big name brands and national retailers to local venues looking to give back) to say thank you for your commitment to keeping our country safe.
Do more with discounted days off
It’s time to unleash a summer of fun and see how you can make your money go further. From exhilarating theme parks and family-friendly attractions to cultural excursions across the UK, we’ve got you covered with exclusive offers and discounted days out.
Save on last-minute holidays
Need a break? Summer’s now in full swing and we know that you and your family are likely overdue a well-earned holiday.
Back-to-school savings
If you’re a parent, you know the challenge of getting your kids ready for the new school year. From growth spurts to wear and tear, it's not always easy to keep on top of the need for new uniforms and school essentials which is why we're here to help ease the burden of back-to-school expenses with our exclusive list of back-to-school
"‘Chinook Crew Chick’ named Inspirational Woman in Defence 2023 "
Celebrating the achievements and dedication of women working in the defence community, Defence Discount Service has crowned the winner of its Inspirational Woman in Defence award 2023. With votes opening earlier this year on International Women’s Day, the award called upon the British defence community to nominate women working within all areas of the armed forces - including the reserve forces, MoD civil servants, cadet f
Top restaurant discounts to help you eat out for less
Too hot to cook? Payday treat?
Casual fashion and footwear savings
Attention! We all know the importance of looking sharp both on and off-duty, which is why we want to give you the heads up on some fantastic fashion discounts you might not be aware of.
Cut the cost of airport parking
From last-minute holidays to spreading the cost of the perfect future break, we’ve already given you the heads up on top places to visit (both in blighty and abroad) as well as some top offers to help you save! We do know though that – when it comes to planning a trip away – it’s easy to forget that it’s not just hotels and flights you can save on all the extras too!
Must-have savings on holiday essentials
Did somebody say ‘heatwave’?! Phew! With sunny weather and summer storms hitting our shores, it’s safe to say that the British summer is well and truly here.
Fancy booking a UK break?
Don’t want to pay for a flight but need a holiday this summer? We’ve got you covered!
Say hello to our team this Armed Forces Day
We’re counting down to Armed Forces Day, are you? Join us in Falmouth as we show the men and women of our armed forces community how much we appreciate your service.
Top tech offers for Father's Day
Are you shopping for a tech-savvy dad this Father’s Day, but don’t have the budget to fork out for the latest expensive gadget or gizmo? Relax, we’ve got you covered!
Find the biggest forces-friendly employers
As more British companies sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant to pledge to invest and support those within the armed forces community and join the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) to demonstrate the level of their commitment, it’s We’ve previously listed the top 5 civvy jobs you could consider, the huge range of applicable skills you likely possess that make you an ideal candidate for any role and some of our top savings to help you up-skill, build up your kitbag and
Jobhunting? Identify and sell your skills for a solid civvy career
Leaving the armed forces and adapting to civvy street can feel like a daunting prospect – particularly when it comes to selling yourself to a new employer. Supporting our armed forces community is a key reason why we do what we do, and we know that the unique range of skills gained during their time in active service make UK armed forces veterans highly effective employees.
Top 5 civilian job types taken up by UK armed forces veterans
Leaving active military service and transitioning to civvy street can be daunting, but we know that armed forces veterans offer employers a unique skill set that makes them highly sought after employees. Whether you’re about to leave the armed forces and are considering what jobs to go for, are a veteran considering a career change or are just curious about the most common roles taken up by your peers, check out our list of the top 5 civvy j
Five key strategies for getting a handle on your mental health
Feeling lost? Lonely?
Over £275K raised for Armed Forces charities
Since 2012, we’ve been here to give back to the Armed Forces community who work tirelessly to serve our nation both at home and abroad. We are delighted to provide the best discounts both online and on the high street to our members whilst also giving back a percentage of all our revenue to charitable causes and military projects that support the continuous wellbeing of thos
Top industries to consider when transitioning to civvy street
In 2021, the number of UK armed forces veterans totaled just over 1.85 million. While half were shown to be aged 65 or older, a significant proportion of those leaving the armed forces are still in the workforce and, regardless of how old you are or how long you’ve been serving, we know that transitioning to civvy stree
Save on tickets to Merlin attractions
Struggling to think of something to do on your day off? Want to treat your family or meet up for some fun with your mates?
Enjoy woodland walks (whatever the weather!)
Whether it’s crunchy leaves, soft grass or squelchy mud, the UK is known for its spectacular forests and woodland. Covering over 12% of the country, woods across Britain offer us a perfect chance to disconnect from daily life, try spotting local birds and animals, and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.
Hungry for great restaurant discounts?
According to The Guardian, households across the UK ordered 12% fewer takeaways in January compared to last year. While new year’s resolutions may have played a part, it could also be down to our communities prioritising saving money – choosing to treat ourselves to occasionally night out over a routine of regularly ordering in.
Alton Towers Resort - Members Day Update
Unfortunately, after careful consideration and in consultation with the Met Office and Defence Discount Service, Alton Towers has taken the difficult decision to cancel the planned Member Day on Saturday March 11th You can read more about that here
Nominations for our Inspirational Woman in Defence Award are now open
To celebrate International Women’s Day (Wednesday 8 March), Defence Discount Service has announced its third annual Inspirational Woman in Defence campaign - celebrating the achievements and efforts of women working within the armed forces. As part of the campaign, all members of the British defence community are invited to nominate friends, family or co-workers for The Defence Discount Service Inspirational Woman of the Year 2023 award.
How to choose the best Mother’s Day flowers (and alternative ideas too!)
We all have someone we love who ‘mums’. Whether it’s your mother, your partner, your gran or someone else in your life who’s stepped into the role, showing them how much we care and appreciate their efforts is important.
Need advice on getting a new car?
Buying or leasing a new car can be pretty expensive and it’s easy in all the excitement to forget the basic must-ask questions… What do you need?
Want to save when shopping for a new car?
With the new ‘23’ reg plate arriving in March, you might be looking to upgrade your motor. Shopping for a new car however, can - naturally – be a challenge!
Save on weekends away with top discounts on city breaks
It’s time to take a break! From Paris to Berlin, no matter what city you’re in; you can save with your Defence Privilege Card.
Top ten Valentine's Day gift ideas
It’s nearly Valentine's Day and there’s no better excuse (barring an anniversary or birthday, of course) to show your partner (or yourself) a little love. The cost of saying ‘I love you’ can sometimes add up however, which is why we’re here to help you with a bit of inspiration and discounts to help you save.
Proud to support Sally Orange
This month, army veteran, Sally Orange, is doing something incredible! On 31st January 2023, Sally will take on the World Marathon Challenge – running seven marathons, on seven different continents, in seven days!
Combat the winter blues
When the days are cold, wet and dark, it’s natural to feel a bit bummed out. Though many of us experience a mood shift in response to the lack of sun during winter, that doesn’t mean we need to let negative feelings hold us back.
Member Days 2023
Member Days are back! Since 2015, members have had the opportunity to book reduced priced tickets to exclusive days out at Merlin attractions, and 2023 is no different!
Jump into action
With family and work commitments, sometimes life can mean it’s a bit tricky to make time to work out and keep up with an exercise routine. Whether you’re getting back into the swing of things or just getting started, we’re here to help you save on gym memberships, activewear and more!
Planning a trip in 2023?
Given the wet and windy weather, is it any surprise to want something to look forward to? Take a trip with Defence Discount Service and let us help you save on sun, sea, sand and sangria!
Merry Christmas!
From those celebrating with their families to those on duty, we’d like to thank you for your service and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We look forward to joining you all in 2023 as we continue serving you with exclusive offers and discounts to show our appreciation for all your efforts.
Festive traditions as shared by you
Christmas is coming! As families gather across the UK, we know many of our members will be spending the festive season away from home.
Don't panic with these last-minute gift ideas
Don’t panic with these last-minute gift ideas The countdown’s on and time’s running out, but that doesn’t mean Christmas has to cost the earth!
Great gift ideas for picky people
Whether they’ve a quirky sense of humour or are a man (or woman!) who have “everything”, we all know that some people are just hard to shop for! So, why not check out our top recommendations on what to buy for the people who you struggle to get gifts for?
"Plan to save on stocking fillers "
Whether you’re looking to express your appreciation (before they unwrap their main gifts) or just saving on small things to raise a smile, make your Christmas a little brighter and stock up with our top suggestions and savings on stocking fi A cheeky treat
Save big this Black Friday!
Stock up on festive savings or bag a bargain on an otherwise big purchase with our top range of exclusive Black Friday offers. We appreciate your efforts all year round but, in the run up to Christmas this year, we’ve worked even harder to deliver you enhanced discounts with over 100 partners, including some of your favourite brands!
Our top tech picks for 2022
With Black Friday and Christmas just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to shop around and save on some of the best tech products on the market. Whether you’re keen to finally upgrade your phone or determined to get fit and start the new year off well, there’s a gadget out there that can help.
"Need a break? Book a UK winter holiday "
Fancy surprising your partner with something to look forward to? Want to book a cheeky weekend away with your mates? Just want a few days to yourself to decompress? We’ve got you covered! With 6 holiday parks across Scotland offering you access to magnificent views, amazing outdoor activities and fascinating historical landmarks, you’ll be spoilt for choice with 10% off online bookings at Wood Leisure on self-catering accommo
"Dine out for less this Christmas "
Celebrating with colleagues, catching up with friends, or treating yourself to a night off from meal prep and washing up? Whatever the occasion, you know that there’s always a decent discount to be had when eating out.
Save more on your Christmas shopping
With the holiday season fast approaching, planning what presents to get everyone can be a daunting prospect. Our festive gift guide is here to help you save more on your Christmas shopping, treat your loved ones or just stock up on all those little things that make Christmas special.
Black Friday coming soon...
With the countdown to Christmas well and truly upon us we’ve announced the major retailers that will be offering exclusive Black Friday deals to help the Armed Forces community tick off a few gifts early. Black Friday, which will take place this year on 25th November, is a key date in many people’s calendars and has fast become one of the biggest shopping events of the year.
We've had a makeover!
Since 2012, we’ve been here to thank the Armed Forces community, the people who serve our country and face extremely challenging situations every day. The Armed Forces community is always there for us. They work tirelessly to keep us safe, often putting themselves in danger to do so. We’re here to show our appreciation for their service and sacrifice.
"What are your proudest moments? "
Whether it’s where you served, the pranks you and your mates played during basic training or what you’ve been up to since leaving active service, we love hearing stories about our members’ time serving in or working in the armed forces. That’s why we asked Defence Discount Service members for their proudest moments and were delighted to be contacted by several members including, ex-Petty Officer(E), David G who became a Lance Corporal with the 219 (Wx) Field Hospital before
What to do when it’s wet outside
When it’s cold and wet outside, it’s easy to feel frustrated about what to do with your day. Whether you want to take the kids out or just give yourself something to do (that isn’t catching up on chores), don’t let bad weather get in the way of having fun.
" A new look is coming soon"
Since 2012, we’ve been providing fantastic discounts to members of the Armed Forces, as a way of recognising the hard work you do and saying thank you for your continued service to our country. The Armed Forces community works tirelessly to keep us safe, motivating us to do more to show our appreciation for your service and sacrifice.
Having a night in this Halloween?
Fancy watching something spooky or feeling brave enough to face your fears with your mates? It’s time to grab the popcorn and settle in with our top film recommendations and savings on everything you need to have a fantastic night in this Halloween.
Habits that last a lifetime
Hotel. Alpha. Bravo. India. Tango. Sierra. Whether you picked them up as a fresh-faced recruit just out of Basic or out on tour, the habits we pick up when serving in the armed forces never truly leave us.
"Top exercises to take your training up a level "
Are you still fighting fit? Want to get your heart rate up and smash your personal best? We’re here to help!
Seven top offers to help you stay fighting fit this autumn
Summer's winding down and the nights may be slowly drawing in but that doesn’t mean you have to slow down on your workout regime. Whether you’re cutting down, bulking up for winter or just trying to keep your waistline in check, we’re here to help you save on gym memberships, activewear and more…
Say yes to top savings on city breaks this September
We all know that once the kids head back to school, the price of hotels and holidays slowly starts to creep down. Whether you're planning some much-needed time away or are planning to turn up the heat with a secret getaway with your partner, say ‘yes!’ to saving that little bit extra.
Fuel for thought: A Q+A with Motorfinity
Everywhere we look, it seems we’re met with the doom and gloom of rising prices. Everything from fuel to our weekly shop is creeping up, but there are things you can do to mitigate some of the additional cost, especially on the road. We sat down with Daniel Briggs, CEO of Motorfinity to find out more:
Enjoying the bank holiday? Let us know what you get up to!
Whether you’re working as normal, on standby, or have planned some much-deserved time off; we’re here to help you and your family maximise the time you have together! Active service, a veteran in civvy street or retired and relaxing at home; we know how hard you’ve all worked which is why we do our best to deliver you the best savings we can on all the brands you might need.
"Seize the day and save on (late) summer holidays "
Country houses, beaches, historic ruins and more… whatever the weather and wherever you are in the UK, there are fantastic days out to be had with your family and friends. Are you taking the time to smell the roses this summer or dip your toes into the surf on one of our favourite British beaches? Whether you’re heading out for the day or planning a longer trip, we know how important it is to make the most of
"Savings on everyday essentials "
With prices rising faster than they have done for 40 years and the cost of living getting steeper, Defence Discount Service has partnered with big name brands to offer the UK’s armed forces, defence community, veterans and spouses some much We have joined forces with the likes of BT, Boxt, O2 and Sky to provide exclusive offers on everyday necessities–from boilers and MOTs to home insurance and phone contracts–to thank the defence community for their continued dedication and to
What inspired you to join the armed forces?
Were you looking to see the world? Challenge yourself and chase adventure? Gain new skills? Whether you chose the Royal Navy, British Army or Royal Air Force; a career in the Armed Forces is like no other. But what makes people sign up for a career in the Armed Forces? Indeed.com listed the most common reason for joining the military to be a desire to serve your country.
"Uniform hacks to stay looking sharp "
Uniformity is key in the armed forces and while training taught everyone the basics (and the endless need for spray starch!), we know that attention to detail isn’t something everyone picks up straight away. No matter how long you’re in the forces or how long ago you may have left of active service, the knack for getting your uniform right never seems to leave you.
The best UK beaches for an epic summer holiday
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that there are plenty of fun things to do in the UK. With so many incredible destinations to visit on Blighty, why not enjoy a much-needed staycation or family day out on the coast?
"Days out in London cost less with Defence Discount Service "
When it comes to planning days out, we all want to bag a bargain. Scrolling through umpteen websites to track down the best offers to help skip queues and save money, however, can be a right palaver!
How much have you saved?
Since 2012, we’ve been committed to delivering you the best online and in-store discounts we can offer with partners across the UK. Whether you’re a cadet, currently serving, a veteran, a reserve or a wider part of the armed forces community, we’re to help you save on everything from holidays and cars to days out and DIY, as well as fashion, gifts, phones and so much mor
Top things Brits forget to bring on holiday
It’s the start of summer and things are heating up! We know how much many of you may be looking forward to a well-deserved holiday That’s why we’re here to help you make your home away from home your own for less!
Your funniest stories from basic training
While training obviously continues throughout your career in the armed forces, thinking about the experiences new recruits go through can certainly bring back memories of some of the stupid (read: hilarious) escapade(s) you got up to during Though we doubt you remember drill training or being screamed at by your Sarge fondly, we love hearing your stories so asked you to tell us some of your funniest memories from back in the day and by God, did you deliver!
"Your stories: Life after the military "
Those who have served are known to have an excellent sense of work ethic, loyalty and a strong desire to succeed. The skills gained during service are so varied however, it can be difficult to know what to do next should you decide to leave.
We stepped up to show our support!
Showing support for our Armed Forces community – whether they’re currently serving troops, veterans, service families or cadets – is a huge part of why we do what we do. That’s why you will have seen us joining the celebrations and shouting Including a fantastic parade, multiple musical performances, flypasts and so much more; Sammi, Nicola and Laura manned our stand to chat with passers-by, offer advice and top tips, and support you with answers to sign up queries.
Defence Discount Service is getting a new look
Since 2012, we’ve been providing fantastic discounts to members of the Armed Forces, as a way of recognising the hard work you do and saying thank you for your continued service to our country. The Armed Forces community works tirelessly to keep us safe, motivating us to do more to show our appreciation for your service and sacrifice.
"Things are heating up! "
Join us and celebrate the start of summer with strawberries and cream, a cheeky Pimm’s or even a pint or two. Whether you’re settling in to watch tonnes of sport (we know we’ll be watching the British Grand Prix and Commonwealth Games!), enjoying the weather while it lasts with a day out with the family or treating yourself to a chilled night out wi
Armed Forces Day
We’re delighted to be returning to the Armed Forces Day National Event, in Scarborough, on Saturday 25th June 2022. Following Covid-related postponements, and three years since we last attended the event in Salisbury, the Defence Discount Service team can’t wait for the big day!