That Cool Travel Couple

You’re at the airport, you’re excited for that next big trip you’ve been planning, you’ve got your backpack filled to the brim with supplies…and you see the massive security line. Read on to find out why we LOVE TSA Pre-Check.

Reasons to Love Pre-Check

1. TSA Pre-Check allows you to skip MOST of the line. Simply show the TSA agent your boarding card (which should say TSA Pre-Check on either the mobile or physical copy). Then, head on down the aisle to your much shorter, much faster designated pre-check line.
2. TSA Pre-Check is selective. In order to apply for this program, you do have to meet certain criteria. They will do a background check and fingerprinting, and it is possible to become disqualified from the program if you no longer meet the criteria. They will issue you a “Known Traveler Number”, or KTN, which you plug in to your flight reservations to make sure you travel with ease.
3. TSA Pre-Check is FASTER. At most airports, having TSA Pre-Check means you won’t need to take off your jacket or shoes. You also probably won’t need to take your laptop out of your bag. This streamlines the whole security process so you get from door to door faster.
4. TSA Pre-Check is affordable. It costs $85 to apply, and it will cover you for 5 years. Doing the math, thats $17 a year. Depending on how much you travel, that can really be a worthwhile investment!
5. The cost of TSA Pre-Check is often covered by your credit card. The TSA website provides an ongoing list of credit card companies that will help to cover the costs of a membership, you can find that page here.

Here is the link to submit your online application for TSA Pre-Check, but keep in mind you will also need an in-person appointment as well.

A few exceptions to know about:

• Unfortunately, not all airports and airlines allow you to fly with TSA Pre-Check. Keep in mind – MOST OF THEM DO. This handy-dandy map allows you to check in advance to see which airports and airlines participate.
• Sometimes the TSA Pre-Check symbol won’t show up on your boarding card. If you’re sure that your membership is active and that the airline participates in Pre-Check, give the TSA a call.
• Travelers flying on the same reservation won’t be guaranteed the same expedited entry as you, so you’ll still have to wait for them on the other end.

Interested in TSA Pre-Check? Check out our post on Global Entry as well, and make the decision thats right for you!

Looking for places to travel without a passport from the U.S.? How about here or here!