One way to make your vacation better is to spend as little time as possible in the airport. Programs like TSA PreCheck can help you bypass long lines during a busy summer travel season amid a record tourism rebound.
About half of Americans plan to take vacations this summer, according to a Deloitte report, and the travel season already started off with historic travel numbers. On the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened a record 2,951,163 individuals across the United States.
With increased travel demand, you could see crowded airports and long lines at the Transportation Security Administration screening. To combat lengthy wait times, TSA PreCheck provides an expedited screening program in approximately 200 airports across the United States.
With a TSA PreCheck membership, you can drastically reduce the time spent waiting in the security line. Even better, you won’t have to worry about removing your shoes, electronics, belt or jacket when being screened.
How much does TSA PreCheck cost?
Before you buy, keep in mind your application to be deemed a low-risk traveler includes an in-person enrollment portion, and it could take longer than usual to be processed due to an influx of travelers.
A five-year TSA PreCheck membership costs $78, and you can renew it for $70 up to six months before it expires. It could cost you less, though, as select travel rewards credit cards cover some or all TSA PreCheck application fees through statement credit reimbursement.
Additionally, teenage children can now accompany a parent or guardian through the PreCheck line for free. Previously, only children 12 and under were eligible, but the policy has since been expanded to include kids aged 13 to 17.
Is TSA PreCheck worth the money?
With a $78 one-time fee, you pay about $15.50 per year over five years. What do you get for your money? Shorter wait times. Up to 99% of PreCheck members wait less than 10 minutes at security, according to the TSA.
Even if you're not rushing to catch your plane every time you travel, TSA PreCheck can come in especially handy at some of the busiest airports. With the ability to breeze through the security line, you'll have more time to make your way to your gate — which in bigger airports, could be quite a trek from TSA.
Quick service via TSA PreCheck is also great for frequent fliers who plan to take multiple trips over the course of a year.
Get TSA PreCheck benefits with Global Entry
If you often travel internationally, you may be better off applying for Global Entry. Run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Global Entry costs $100 for a five-year membership and includes a TSA PreCheck benefit. Plan on it taking from four-to-six months for your application to be processed. You can get updates and track the status of your application at check the Trusted Traveler Program website. Note that after October, the price is going up to $120.
Additionally, it offers expedited customs processes when returning to the United States from out of the country. Instead of dealing with customs interviews and paperwork, Global Entry members can complete their customs declaration at a Global Entry kiosk.
