Is TSA PreCheck Worth It? Let’s Break it Down! -

Especially with Memorial Day weekend approaching and the summer travel season heating up, the question we get asked a lot is “Is TSA Precheck Worth it?” Let’s break down the pros and cons of purchasing TSA PreCheck.

TSA PreCheck Cost

TSA PreCheck will run you about $85 for a five year subscription. Yes, you heard that right. $85 for FIVE YEARS! That’s only $17 per year or less than $1.50 per month! If you plan to travel during busy seasons, this small expense can be an absolute time saver. I’ve had TSA PreCheck for almost 7 years now and it’s been the greatest $170 I’ve spent for traveling.

TSA Pre-Check Benefits

Typically, the TSA PreCheck line will be shorter than the standard line which right there saves time. But more than that, you don’t have to do all the things that non-PreCheck customers have to do, like taking liquids out of your bag, or taking your shoes off. Not only are the lines shorter, but they tend to move faster because one, PreCheck customers tend to be more frequent travelers so they know what they need to do, and two, there’s less to do (like taking off and putting on shoes) so you can breeze through security.

Consider Upgrading to Global Entry

If you’re a frequent international traveler, consider going for Global Entry over TSA PreCheck. Not only do you get a Known Traveler Number (KTN), same as you get with TSA PreCheck, but you also get benefits when going through customs in and out of different countries. Global Entry is only $15 more ($100 also for 5 years) so if you plan to do any international travel in the next 5 years, I highly recommend shelling out the additional $15 and going for Global Entry (as long as your qualified).

Add-on CLEAR

CLEAR is another service, like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, that aims to help expedite your travel experience. From their website FAQs, “CLEAR speeds members through the travel document check process on departing flights. CLEAR members may also enjoy an expedited screening process at sports stadiums and other partner services where CLEAR is used to confirm identity.” Combining CLEAR with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can help you speed through airport security. In my experience, CLEAR is much less commonly used and after verifying my identity through retinal scans or fingerprint scans, they escort me to the front of the TSA PreCheck line (since I’m also a PreCheck member). If I wasn’t PreCheck eligible they would still escort me to the front of the standard security line. You can read more about the differences between CLEAR, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry on the CLEAR website FAQs.

CLEAR is a bit more expensive at almost $200 per year, but if you travel enough, it can be worth it. There are several discounts out there for frequent airline travelers like Delta Skymiles members who can get $40 off or even free CLEAR status (depending on your Skymiles status).