Travel Hack: expedited airport security program
Now is the time to invest in a travel service if you’re planning to get back out there. I’ve always gotten teased, cause I’m a tad bit bougie when it comes to travel. Okay, I’m high maintenance and I don’t care, but I hate lines and middle seats and will do anything in my power to avoid them. I’ve been a global entry, TSA precheck and most recently, CLEAR fan for a while, but my last couple of trips have proven why they’re pretty much a necessity for post pandemic travel.
First, let me break down the differences in these services.
CLEAR is a program that stores your biometric information (yes Big Brother is watching) to allow a quick scan at the airport to get you through security without showing your ID.
Cost: $15/month or $179 annually; however some credit cards offer this service for free or at a discount (like Delta Skymiles American Express) so do your homework. Also, existing CLEAR members are given guest passes, so if you know one ask if you can use their pass as a trial to find out if this service is for you long-term.
Pros:
No need to show ID at the gate, you just scan your eyeballs or fingerprints
Fastest line through security, they’re taken ahead of TSA precheck
You can quickly sign up at most airports that offer the service and begin using the benefit immediately before your flight. True story, I signed up for CLEAR to avoid missing my flight at the Minneapolis airport.
Stadium, arenas and other venues are now using CLEAR to expedite entry
Cons:
Not available at all airports currently
Doesn’t open until 4AM at most locations
TSA Precheck is a program that allows you to go through security without additional scrutiny, like removing your shoes or taking electronic devices out of your bag. At most airports, it also allows you to go through a standard metal detector vs a more invasive one.
Cost: $85 for 5 years; however like CLEAR, some credit cards offer this service for free or at a discount (like Delta Skymiles American Express) so do your homework.
Pros:
Not having to strip to get through airport security
2nd fastest way through security
Less invasive metal detector screening
Generally can sign up at major airports
Cons:
Hours of operation vary by airport, though this service is typically available at all major airports
Global Entry is a program that allows fast tracking through customs as you enter the country from international destinations through assignment of a known traveler number.
Cost: $100 every 5 years; however like CLEAR and TSA Precheck some credit cards offer this service for free or at a discount (like Delta Skymiles American Express) so do your homework. Also, when you sign up for global entry, you AUTOMATICALLY get TSA Precheck, so if you ever travel internationally, this service is a better value for you.
Pros:
Speeding through customs upon reentry into the country. This service has saved me as much as 2 hours of waiting when lines are bad.
Less invasive customs checks
I can’t guarantee this, but after qualifying for Global Entry my “random” screenings at the airport greatly decreased
Cons:
Wait time to get approved can be long, current interview appointment times are greater than 6 months. At times you can get screened at major airports the same day of your flight if interviews are being offered, but the service will not be available for your current flight.
The interview process is thorough and in depth, they will find anything in a background check, so be forewarned
Have to have a passport to apply
Eclectik Girl Recommendation
The money combo is Global Entry + CLEAR. I haven’t shown my license at an airport since signing up. I speed through lines and keep all of my personal belongings intact. Especially during COVID, the no contact touchless service is a major benefit. Additionally, CLEAR has an app that will allow you to upload your vaccination status for those times you need it during travel.
The benefit of each of these services outweighs the cost for me and I highly recommend trying the one that works best for you out.