Do soldiers get upgrades on planes? What do airlines practice for soldiers in and out of uniform?

Upgrades to first class, boarding first, or exiting the plane first - we've all seen these events take place for soldiers in full uniform and those wearing civilian clothes. The confusion comes not from the discounts themselves, but from when they're available. Deals don't seem to stay consistent, and brands tend to offer upgrades as they're available. Though it's hard to argue with that logic - how does one give a perk when it's not there? It can make the process difficult to understand.

When are military discounts up for grabs? Most airlines will provide deals to soldiers at all times, especially when they are on official business.

Perks range by the brand, but generally consist of a percentage off of the fare, free upgrades, short line privileges and more. But if an airline is overbooked, those same items are often not available. Companies agree that it's best to book online or over the phone and mention one's military status. This will allow more time to choose a flight that's less full.

A similar tale is told while en route. If a soldier isn't in uniform, others might have a hard time identifying him or her as an active-duty servicemember. Packs or nametapes are certainly telltale signs, as are haircuts. Veterans - who may or may not be eligible for upgrades, based on the company - often carry similar bags.

Those who are in uniform will often receive upgrades on arrival (assuming there is room). Additionally, good samaritans have been known to trade seats with a servicemember to provide those in uniform with a cushier flying experience.

Which airlines offer discounts?

Aside from services like Space A, where military travelers can remain on standby for a free or low-cost flight, commercial airlines will provide deals to help get you where you need to go without charging a fortune. This is true of emergency travel as well as trips that are just for fun.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines provides free checked bags for active-duty servicemembers. Spouses and dependents receive the same while the servicemember is on travel orders. alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/optional-services-fees.aspx

Allegiant Airlines

Through Allegiant, active-duty servicemembers can check up to three bags free of charge. https://www.allegiantair.com/baggage-info

American Airlines

When available, discounts "may be provided." Contact American Airlines to learn more.

Delta Airlines

Delta offers special rates for military members. Rates and booking are available through the reservations department. delta.com/content/www/en_US/support/talk-to-us/reservations-and-refunds.html

Frontier Airlines

Active-duty can check their bags free of charge with Frontier. facebook.com/flyfrontier/posts/10151476814466700; ifly.com/frontier-airlines

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines is a little more specific with its provisions. Active-duty servicemembers and retirees can check four bags without charge. The same goes for dependents, though, proof of travel orders are required. When traveling for personal reasons, active-duty can receive two free checked bags. help.hawaiianairlines.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1922/kw/military

JetBlue

This company has created an entire class of travel, known as MIL fare. Active-duty servicemembers and dependents are eligible; dependents do not need to be with their servicemember at time of travel. Additionally, these discounted rates can be used for personal travel needs. Those traveling on government business receive additional advantages, like refunds for all tickets, regardless of reason for missing and/or canceling. jetblue.com/travel-agents/government-fares/

Southwest Airlines

Active-duty servicemembers and their dependents can receive special discounts, though, they cannot be booked online. Baggage fees are also waived for active-duty, including multiple or overweight luggage. Call 1-800-I-FLY-SWA to learn more. armywife101.com/2015/03/confirmed-southwest-airlines-does-offer-a-military-discount-details-inside.html

United Airlines

United Airlines has also created a program that's specific to military members. Known as Veterans Advantage, active-duty and Reserve servicemembers and their families can receive five percent off tickets purchased online. united.com/web/en-US/content/deals/veterans/default.aspx

US Airways

Dependents are sometimes eligible for discounts and should contact US Airways to learn more. Servicemembers traveling on government business or who are within seven days of discharge can gain access to special rates. usairways.com/en-US/specials/traveldiscountprograms/militaryleavefares.html

Virgin Atlantic

Active and retired servicemembers, along with their families, have access to discounted rates through Virgin. virgin-atlantic.com/en/gb/corporateandtrade/modoffers.jsp

Deciphering the discounts

Because there are such different policies among airlines, it can be difficult to navigate which might offer the best deal. Be sure to shop around for the best dates, times and prices. Perks like free checked baggage can also add up, especially when you're toting around extra suitcases.

To learn even more about the art of the military discount, head to your local travel agency, visit on-post resources, or go online. Articles are dedicated in particular to destinations, last-minute traveling and more.