The Mom Hack Everyone Needs to Know Before Flying {And It’s FREE Starting October 1st}
Do you often fly as a family? Would you like to skip the long security checkpoint lines when traveling together? If so, you may have considered or signed up for TSA PreCheck. Before you do, if there’s a possibility of you traveling abroad, it’s worth exploring Global Entry. A few options can help you breeze through airport security: TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry.
- TSA PreCheck offers shorter lines; you don’t have to remove your shoes or laptops while passing through security.
- CLEAR is similar but with the added convenience of using biometric scans to verify your identity.
- Global Entry combines the benefits of TSA PreCheck with expedited customs processing when returning to the U.S. from international travel. Instead of waiting in the long immigration line, you can head straight to the Global Entry kiosks.
Our family has been considering Global Entry for the past year, especially as our older kids have started traveling abroad. With a potential graduation in Thailand in a few years, Global Entry is becoming more attractive than TSA PreCheck.
A New Update to Travel Options and a Game Changer for Families:
A recent update made this decision more accessible for our family: Starting October 1st, 2024, children under 18 can get Global Entry for FREE when applying with a parent.
For our family of eight, this means saving $300 (the ones under 18), which is a huge bonus! Although Global Entry costs increase from $100 to $120 on October 1st, the savings for our three kids outweigh the additional $40 my husband and I will pay for our applications. And since Global Entry is valid for five years, it’s a fantastic deal, especially as some of our kids will travel internationally on their own before their passes expire.
If Global Entry isn’t on your radar or in your budget right now, consider adding it to your holiday wish list. Passports, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck are practical gifts that last for years, making them ideal presents for grandparents, godparents, or friends who want to give something that will have a lasting impact on your family’s travel experiences.
You Can Also Explore Reimbursement Offers for Global Entry:
While researching this offer, I learned that several credit cards offer reimbursement for Global Entry application fees (up to $100) as a statement credit. A brief search of specific cards led to several options:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
– Offers up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
– Provides up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years. Terms apply.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
– Offers up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.
- Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard®
– Provides up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every five years.
- U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
– Offers up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
– Provides up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.
- IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card
– Offers up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.
- United℠ Explorer Card
– Provides up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
– Offers up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years. Terms apply.
- Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
– Provides up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years. Terms apply.
This is not an endorsement of any cards; it is information to explore. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your specific card, as some benefits might have restrictions or require enrollment.
