TSA PreCheck helps you fly through the airport
If you fly more than a handful of times per year, you may be wondering how you to save time while at the airport. Specifically, you can enroll in TSA PreCheck, which lets you fly through security at most major airports in the United States.
In addition to the speed upgrade, TSA PreCheck offers a handful of other benefits. Best of all, you can get the added speed and other benefits bundled with other government programs, such as Global Entry or NEXUS.
Faster lines with TSA PreCheck
The primary benefit of TSA PreCheck is a faster line for security at the airport. Every airport that supports TSA PreCheck has a dedicated security lane for passengers who meet the pre-screened requirements. Check your airport map for the correct location.
Not only will you enjoy faster lines, but you will also have less hassle in those lines. Typically, you will only be subjected to a metal detector rather than a full-body scanner. Other great perks include not having to remove your laptop from your bag or being able to keep your shoes on through the security line.
How to get TSA PreCheck
It’s easy to apply for TSA PreCheck. Simply head over to the official website and start the application. Fill out the online application, then schedule a 10-minute background check interview. Once you complete these two steps and are approved, you can start enjoying the benefits.
Additionally, TSA PreCheck comes as part of your benefits if you enroll in Global Entry or NEXUS. These programs are ideal for the frequent international traveler. With Global Entry, not only can you speed through airport security, you also get to fly through customs on your trip home from abroad. NEXUS is targeted at frequent travelers to the US and Canada. These programs have higher registration fees than TSA PreCheck but offer more benefits.
One thing to note: not every traveler will be eligible for these programs. You must be able to pass a background check and in-person interview, as well as meet all the requirements including being able to provide fingerprints for identification. Read the entire list on the official website for these program and the FAQ page.
How to get TSA PreCheck for free or with a discount
If these benefits sound great to you, then luckily there are several ways to get TSA PreCheck for free. Many credit card providers offer complimentary membership as part of being a card holder. Here is a list of several credit cards that offer complimentary or discounted membership to TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS.
- Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card
- Capital One Venture Card
- Certain American Express Credit Cards, such as The Platinum Card
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Citi / AAdvantage Executive World EliteTM MasterCard
- Citi Prestige Card
- Club Carlson
- Diners Club Carte Blanche Corporate Card
- Expedia+ Voyager Card from Citi
- IHG Rewards Club
- Marriott Rewards
- MasterCard Black Card
- MasterCard Gold Card
- Orbitz Rewards
- SunTrust Travel Rewards World Elite MasterCard Credit Card
- United Explorer Card
- United MileagePlus
- US Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card
- US Bank FlexPerks Gold American Express Card
This is a long list, but it may not be exhaustive of every card that offers this benefit. Credit card benefits change frequently. It’s best to check your credit card’s Guide to Benefits pamphlet to find out exactly which benefits your card offers.
Things to keep in mind with TSA PreCheck
It’s not all rosy with these added benefits at the airport. If you’re not careful, you can run into issues. First, you must go to the correct security lane at the airport. If you accidentally enter the normal security lane, you will not receive any of your benefits. This includes removing shoes, removing items from your bag, and more.
Similarly, you must take the time to add your Known Traveler Number to your airfare reservation with the airline. If you don’t add this key number to your reservation, your boarding pass will not display the TSA PreCheck logo, and the airport security agents will not let you in the expedited line. It’s also worth noting that not all airlines support every program. You should always check airline participation before you book your flight if you are expecting to utilize your benefits.
One last downside of any of these benefit programs is that you have to renew it periodically. In most cases, you will have to renew your membership every five years. If you received the benefit as part of your credit card program, you generally will be able to maintain this benefit as long as you keep your credit card open. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay the standard membership fee to renew or will lose your benefits.
How to improve your travel game even further
We hope you find these quick tips valuable. With benefits like TSA PreCheck, you’re bound to have a better experience at the airport. If you would like help planning and booking your trip, Simple Trips is here for you. We want everyone to be able to have the best experience when it comes to planning trips, booking travel, and having support during your trip. Get in touch with us to learn how Simple Trips can make a difference for you.
Our business and corporate product, Simple Trips for Business, is one of the best managed travel solutions out there. If you’re more interested in our personal travel services, we offer a premium concierge for everyone and other great perks and benefits as part of the Simple Trips experience. Best of all? You can get started for free.
