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Few things cause more irritation than unending lines at airport security. In lieu of the most busy travel week of the year, I want to shine light on my favorite travel hack of 2019. Regardless of if you are a weekly traveler or seldom hit the jetway, if you are flying more than once a year I have a travel must for you.

I am notorious for showing up to the airport with roughly an hour before my scheduled departure. I have found myself racing against the clock more times than I would care to admit. Whether I find myself at the airport for business or pleasure, I knew I needed a solution that would cut down on my time maneuvering airport security. Are you also looking to save yourself time and stress while in the airport? Look no further! TSA PreCheck is the solution you have been looking for!

What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA Pre✓ is an expedited security system designed to help travelers enjoy a more convenient experience at hundreds of U.S. airports.

Benefits of TSA Pre✓®:

How the process works:

1. Apply online for pre-approval: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck
2. Pay a non-refundable $85.00 application fee
3. Background Check: brief in-person appointment includes background check and fingerprinting. (I HIGHLY recommend scheduling an appointment time online. You may have to wait a few weeks to get in but I promise you it beats having to wait hours in line as a “walk-in”).
4. Enjoy TSA Pre✓ for the next 5 years : sayonara long wait times and added stress!
   
   

Cost: $85.00 membership for 5 years! (That’s only $17.00 per year!)

Keep in mind: several travel credit cards will cover or reimburse the $85.00 application fee!
Here is a list of current credit cards and loyalty programs featuring TSA Pre✓^®

Secret Major Travel Hack: If you have TSA Pre✓® and are traveling with a family member or friend who does not, try booking everyone’s tickets on one reservation under your TSA PreCheck number. Doing so will often allow your status to be applied to their ticket, displaying the TSA Pre✓® on their boarding pass for the flight! (I stumbled upon this after purchasing airline tickets earlier this year and it has worked for me every time I’ve tried!)

List of TSA PreCheck Airports and Airlines:
Here is the link to all of the current airports and airlines supporting TSA Pre✓®

Note: TSA Pre✓® currently is only available for domestic travel.
If you are a frequent international traveler, I would recommend looking into obtaining Global Entry ($100 application fee), which includes TSA Pre✓® in addition to benefits like expedited customs and immigration lines.

Cheers to easy, stress-free traveling in 2020!
-Ronnie