Discover hidden gems amidst your travels as a military family – USO Lounges, where moments of respite and connection await!
The rollercoaster of military life can take us to amazing places around the world. Whether we’re gearing up for another PCS, traveling for fun or for work, there’s a military perk you need to know about: USO Centers (commonly referred to as USO lounges). These little pockets of comfort and community are treasures among busy airports and large military installations.
Understanding USO Centers
First things first, what exactly is a USO Center? The United Service Organizations, or USO, have been supporting our brave military members and their families since 1941 with over 250 centers on every continent. These free lounges, scattered across airports, military installations, and even combat zones worldwide, are the embodiment of that support. They’re cozy spaces where military servicemembers and military families can find solace, comfort, and maybe even a fellow adventurer to share stories with! USO lounges are staffed by volunteers who are often veterans, military spouses, or military affiliated, and they’re often the most welcoming face you’ll see throughout your airport journey.
Photos from left to right: kids corner at the USO Center in the Denver International Airport; kids table at the Destin-Fort Walton Airport USO; USO Center in Destin-Fort Walton Airport, Florida
Perks and Benefits of USO Lounges
Now, let’s dive into what makes these lounges so special. Picture this: You’ve just landed after a long flight, tired and hungry. Perhaps you’re a servicemember returning from a deployment overseas or a weary military family waiting through a long layover en route to a long-awaited family vacation. That’s when a USO lounge comes to the rescue! You can stretch out on a comfy chair, sip on a cup of coffee, and indulge in some complimentary snacks. It’s like a mini vacation within your journey. Plus, they have all the practical stuff covered too, from free Wi-Fi and charging stations to luggage storage and computers (sometimes with CAC readers) and printing facilities. Oftentimes they have toys, books, or seating for kids, too – which as a parent, is such a gift while traveling!
Making the Most of Your Visit
Before your trip, take some time to research the USO lounge locations at your departure and arrival points and check to be sure it is open during the hours you plan to visit. Some USO lounges in airports are before security and others (my favorite!) are after security which makes walking to your gate a breeze, and a few are open 24/7 365 days a year.
You will need to show your military ID and sign in to gain entry to USO lounges. Most USO lounges now use a mobile app (download it here) and once you sign up the first time, it’s quick and easy to sign in to any USO that uses the system in the future. Once you’re there, I suggest walking around to see everything the lounge has to offer – sometimes there are rooms in the back if you need a place to rest quietly.
And don’t be shy! Strike up conversations with other military patrons, because who knows, you might just find a kindred spirit or someone who has valuable insights about the base you’re about to move to. The USO lounges are more than just places to rest your feet; they’re a chance to connect with others who understand the unique challenges and joys of military life.
Now, I’d like to share a personal story that captures the true magic of USO lounges. Last spring I traveled to Florida for a work retreat. After landing in Destin, I stumbled upon a USO lounge right after exiting security. I was tired from a long day of travel – I spent 4 hours in the USO lounge in Nashville during my layover and I was emotionally preoccupied after recently receiving news that my mom was sick and admitted to the hospital. Little did I know that within the walls of that USO, I would find a warm smile and a listening ear. I met Larry Wager, an Air Force veteran and longtime USO volunteer. We swapped stories, he shared local tips about restaurants in the area, and we talked at length about the perspective and mindsets that make or break a person’s experience in the military. When I returned to the Destin airport to head back to our duty station, Larry was there to greet me again at the USO lounge while I waited for my flight. This time, with homemade brownies from his wife, more stories, and more laughs. He remembered me and asked how my mom was doing. In that moment, the world felt a little smaller, and the comfort of a new friend helped make my trip home much lighter. If you’re ever traveling through Destin and see Larry at the USO please tell him I say hello!
Want to volunteer or support a USO center?
After visiting a USO center, you might be eager to volunteer to be part of the incredible organization supporting military families across the globe. You can find ways to volunteer, support or make donations to the USO here. You can also support our fellow WAF, Corrie, who is running the Boston Marathon this year with Team USO by donating to support them here!
As military families, our journeys are unique and full of surprises. USO lounges are our hidden allies, offering respite and connection when we need it most. So, the next time you’re traveling for leisure or PCS, do a quick search of USO lounges to know where they are and dive into the welcoming embrace of a free lounge meant as a place for you and your family. Let the comfort, perks, and community spirit elevate your travel experience and take a little load off your shoulders in the meantime.
The world is waiting, and the USO is ready to welcome you with open arms! Safe travels and happy adventures!
Meet Casie
Casie is a Space Force spouse and mom to a fun-loving preschooler. She and her husband have been stationed in five states with the Air Force, Navy, and Army over the last ten years of their marriage. As a lifelong athlete with a degree in International Health and Development, she is passionate about all things relating to personal wellness and thrives when she is active, connected to her community, and serving others. She currently works as a health coach, designs and leads wellness workshops, leads a virtual wellness community, and coordinates Financial Peace University at her current duty station. You can connect with her and find more wellness education and resources on her Instagram: @casie.rendon.wellness or on Facebook.
