Security Shortcuts
I don’t think there’s a single traveler who says they enjoy waiting through security lines. In Tampa, I’m lucky that I’ve only had to wait 20 minutes max in TSA lines. But, when you can’t live near the worlds fastest airport security, there’s other ways to skip the lines. Just know these come at a cost. Below I break down & compare the different options:
TSA Pre-Check
Costs $85 and is valid for 5 years
Takes about 10 minutes to fill out the form and then about a week to set up an appointment with an enrollment officer at your local airport
Speed through security since you don’t have to take off your shoes, laptop, belts, or liquids!
95% of TSA Pre-check passengers waited less than 5 minutes in line
Just add your Known Traveler number to qualify on all flights
Many travel credit cards will pay for your application
Valid in the US only
CLEAR
Recently has gotten more popular with over 50 airports and 19 stadiums participating
Costs $179 and is only valid for a year
Uses your fingerprint or iris to identify you instead of travel documents
FYI for all my local subscribers- this option is not available at TPA or CLT yet
You can sign up online or register at a Clear station in the airport
Global Entry
Costs $100 and includes TSA Pre-check
Wizz past others while they wait at US Customs & Border control to have their re-entry processed
Can take up to 4 months to get your application approved and then another week or so to have your interview with an enrollment officer ( I’ve been waiting three months)
Many credit cards will cover your Global Entry application fee including the Capital One Venture Rewards Card
You don’t have to be a US citizen. Citizens of Argentina, Germany, Switzerland, Panama, South Korea, India, Colombia, Singapore, Taiwan and the U.K. are also eligible
If you already have TSA Pre-Check, you cannot upgrade to Global Entry. So if you are on the fence, I’d suggest going ahead and paying the $15 more for Global Entry
Not trying to spend money to save some time?
Here are some other suggestions I have to make your wait times shorter through the airport and security:
Upgrade to a premium flight ticket- it usually comes with TSA Pre-check
Check your bags/ bring little carry on
Have all your liquids in a quart size bag near the top
Wear slip on shoes
Get airline elite status- fly with one airline often to boost your status
Don’t wear lots of jewelry
Fly during non peak hours
That’s all I got! Do you have one of the three Travelers Programs?
Any other tips on how to shorten security wait times? I’d love to hear!
Sincerely,
Sarah
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