TSA PreCheck Application: WAIT, Get Global Entry Instead!
Some of the card links and products that appear on this website are from companies which Tech Mentor Maria may receive compensation when you click on links to those products.Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. See our Ad Disclosure at the end of the post
Find my favorite travel credit cards here.
An Accessible World with New Challenges
The realm of travel has dramatically evolved, becoming more accessible to people from all walks of life. But this widespread accessibility comes with its challenges: long lines and extended wait times at airports, especially at JFK or EWR if you live in NYC. In response, many people have turned to TSA PreCheck as a solution. But what if I told you there's a better option? Most travelers are making the mistake of settling for TSA PreCheck, missing out on a superior choice: Global Entry. In this blog post, I'll elucidate why this could be a critical mistake and why Global Entry should be your go-to option.
Decoding TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck is a government initiative that provides low-risk travelers with a faster and more efficient screening process at airports. Here's a snapshot of the application process:
- Complete the online application or get a pre-enrollment form from a participating location.
- Schedule an appointment for a 10-minute, in-person interview that includes a background check and fingerprinting.
- Pay a non-refundable fee.
- If approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), allowing you to enjoy expedited screening at select airports.
The Intersection of Credit Cards and TSA PreCheck
Interestingly, several credit cards offer TSA PreCheck as a complimentary feature. This benefit can help you bypass long queues and get straight to the boarding gate without dipping into your wallet. After extensively researching various credit cards and their rewards, I've curated a list of the top 3 credit cards offering TSA PreCheck for free. You can explore these options in more detail here.
Unveiling Global Entry
Let's now step up the game and introduce Global Entry. This U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program offers expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
Why Choose Global Entry Over TSA PreCheck?
So, why should you choose Global Entry over TSA PreCheck? Firstly, Global Entry encompasses all the benefits of TSA PreCheck. Secondly, it offers expedited re-entry into the U.S. from international destinations. But the clincher is that when you opt for Global Entry, you automatically qualify for TSA PreCheck, at no additional cost.
Top Cards Offering Global Entry
To make things easier, here are the best cards that offer Global Entry:
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Not only does this card offer TSA Precheck fee credit, but it also comes with a lucrative bonus offer for July 2023. Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. You can find more about this card here
The Platinum Card® from American Express: This card not only offers a credit for the TSA Precheck application fee but also a significant bonus offer for July 2023. Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your Card in the first six months of Card Membership. Read more about the card here).
Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Alongside providing a credit for the TSA Precheck application fee, the card is offering 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. More details here.
To sum it up, although travel has become more accessible, it also brings the hassle of long lines and extended wait times at airports. With Global Entry and the right credit card, not only can you bypass these inconveniences but also maximize your financial rewards journey. Choosing Global Entry over TSA PreCheck not only saves you time but also optimizes your every dollar spent on credit cards, offering you maximum rewards. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Platinum Card® from American Express, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® are all excellent choices that offer Global Entry benefits and lucrative sign-up bonuses. So why wait? Opt for Global Entry, pick the right credit card, and transform your travel experience into a rewarding journey, every time
Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the card links and other products that appear on this website are from companies which Tech Mentor Maria will earn an affiliate commission or referral bonus. Tech Mentor Maria is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, vendors or companies, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.