If there’s one thing I love, it’s lines.  The longer the better.  I just can’t get enough of waiting around for an eternity to reach the end, where I get strip-searched and forced to remove half the belongings in my bag…  said no one, ever.

Let’s face it, traveling can be stressful.  Trying to get ready to leave the house.  Frantically throwing a few last-minute items into your suitcase.  Fighting traffic to get to the airport on time (is everyone in a 100-mile radius on the same road as you?!)  Trying to find a parking space (any parking space!)  Then finally making your way to a security line that resembles the mall on Black Friday.  Perfect.

Enter Clear and Global Entry.

I can’t tell you how many times these two programs have saved me from missing a flight or, at the very least, waiting in a seemingly endless line.  They are essential to anyone who travels even somewhat frequently!  And once you have them, you’ll never go back.

GLOBAL ENTRY

Global Entry allows travelers to expedite the customs process when returning to the United States, as well as take advantage of a much less frustrating security screening process.  Some important things to know:

• Once accepted, the Global Entry membership will last for 5 years.
• There is a $100 non-refundable application fee. (Note: this is not a membership fee, so if you’re denied you still have to pay).
• The Global Entry membership will also give travelers access to TSA PreCheck.  However, the reverse is not true.  More on how awesome TSA PreCheck is in a minute!
• Once your online application is accepted, you’ll need to schedule an interview and fingerprinting with a Customs & Border Patrol (CBP) office. Because this program is so popular, expect to wait a few months to get in (so plan ahead!)  However, by checking the schedule for last-minute cancellations, there may be a chance to squeeze in earlier.
• When you renew your passport you’ll need to visit a Customs & Border Patrol office to have your information updated (but don’t worry, no appointment is needed to do that, so you’ll be in and out).
• Children need their own Global Entry membership to skip through customs with parents who are members.
• You don’t need to be a US citizen to participate!  According to the U.S Customs and Border Protection site, citizens of Columbia, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, and Mexican nationals are also able to apply.  In addition, Canadians can take advantage of Global Entry benefits through the Nexus program.

Find out more and apply for Global Entry here.

TSA PRECHECK

If traveling internationally even once a year, I recommend getting Global Entry over TSA PreCheck (since Global Entry will give you access to both programs for a minimal cost difference).  However, if you’re not one to venture outside U.S. borders, then TSA PreCheck is a great option.  A few things you’ll want to know:

• The program allows members to skip extensive security lines, as well as avoid removing shoes, bagged liquids, and electronics.  Fyew!  Nothing is worse than shuffling through security in your socks (or worse yet, barefoot!)
• Just like Global Entry, the membership will last 5 years.
• The price for this program is $85 (so again, for $15 more members can enjoy breezing through customs when returning from abroad, in addition to all the other awesome perks of TSA PreCheck).
• After applying online, schedule your interview at one of 380+ enrollment centers.  The interview only takes about 10 minutes and will conclude with fingerprinting.  But don’t worry, they use electronic pads now so you won’t leave looking like a convict.
• Children under 18 don’t need their own membership to go through security with parents in the program.
• Over 200 airports and 56 airlines participate in TSA PreCheck.  When booking, make sure the airline you’re flying participates in the program.  If they are, include your Known Traveler Number on your boarding pass.

Find out more and apply for TSA PreCheck here.

CLEAR

Now for my favorite program – Clear!  If you thought TSA PreCheck and Global Entry were a breeze, this program puts them to shame!  I’ve made it through security in less than 2 minutes on Memorial Day weekend when security lines were wrapped down the hall.  That’s not a typo – 2 MINUTES!

You can’t put a price on that kind of convenience (but if you did, it would be $179 per year, and $50 for each additional family member… although often times that price is discounted with certain credit cards).  Here’s why Clear is absolutely worth the cost:

• When using Clear, members zip through the line (or lack thereof) in seconds.  Plus, contact is touchless and members are escorted to the front of the TSA PreCheck line when their boarding pass displays a Known Traveler Number.
• Unlike Global Entry and TSA Precheck, Clear works with any airline at any time.  Simply check-in with the concierge using your ticket and fingerprint, and they’ll whisk you right through.  No more fumbling for an ID!
• The Clear line is only for Clear members, so you never have to worry about non-members being allowed to use the service when security lines backup.
• Clear is available at 43 airports, and more are added every month.  Find out where you can find Clear checkpoints here.
• The program is also found at 21 stadiums & arenas around the country.  This is a HUGE bonus so members can avoid long lines when headed to see their favorite team.  Instead of spending time waiting to get in, they can use it to get some of those delicious concession snacks! Another bonus – when going to a game with someone else, members are allowed to bring one non-Clear member through too.  Jackpot!

So take the stress out of your airport experience and sign up for Clear and Global Entry today!  No need to arrive at the airport ridiculously early in case security lines are long (which let’s face it, they always are).

Get your trip started off on the right foot, and fly through security before your next bucket list adventure!

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