TSA PreCheck (and its cousin Global Entry), are trusted traveler programs run by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. For purposes of this post we will focus on TSA PreCheck, but everything below also applies to Global Entry. TSA Pre as it is commonly known, allows passengers with that little green checkmark on their boarding pass to undergo expedited security screening when traveling by air. The program has been designed to provide a more efficient and streamlined security experience for passengers, while still maintaining a high level of security.
Here are just a few of the benefits of TSA PreCheck:
- Shorter Lines and Quicker Screening: Most people consider the biggest advantage of TSA PreCheck to be the shorter line, and I cannot say that I disagree. TSA PreCheck lanes are usually less congested, which means that you can spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying your trip.
- Although shorter lines are great, my favorite benefit of TSA Pre is that I do not have to undress myself to get through security. The removal of shoes, hats, belts, or Light Jackets is not required and TSA PreCheck do not have to take out their laptops and liquids from their carry-on bags. This saves time and reduces the frustration of having to go through the traditional security screening process. Not to mention you don’t have to look at other passengers feet (unless you are into that kind of thing).
- Access to Expedited Screening: TSA Pre-Check passengers also have access to expedited screening, which means that they can move through the security checkpoint more quickly. This is particularly useful for those who are running late for their flight or just want to minimize their time at the airport lounge or bar. This is mostly because the people in the PreCheck line are usually seasoned travelers so they know the process and move efficiently through the screening area. Not having to disrobe also saves a lot of time. In addition, often times TSA Pre passengers go through an old-fashion metal detector as opposed to the new full body scan machine. Many people find this less invasive of their personal privacy.
- If you find yourself flying through crowded airports, especially those listed below, I highly recommend having TSA Pre-check.
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Atlanta’s airport is the busiest in the world, handling millions of passengers each year. During peak travel times, security lines can be extremely long, often taking more than an hour to get through. The TSA Pre line is almost always shorter; rarely taking more than 15-20 minutes to get through.
- Orlando International Airport (MCO). Orlando is home to Disney and that means lots of families with young children. Families with children always take longer to go through security than the average person, so the lines at Orlando can be awful. In addition, most families traveling together do not have Pre-Check so I have found that Pre-Check is invaluable when flying out of MCO.
- Los Angeles International Airport: LAX. Its Los Angeles. Everything is crowded. Enough said.
- O’Hare International Airport, Chicago: O’Hare. Its just busy all the time
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport—Like ATL this is just a huge crowded airport. Lots of people means long lines.
- Exclusive TSA Pre entry points at some airports. Some airports have exclusive screening areas just for Pre-Check passengers. For example, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)— has an entirely separate screening area just for PreCheck passengers at Terminal C. If you don’t have PreCheck you cannot enter at Terminal C. Most people, even those with Pre-Check, don’t even know this exists. If you have TSA Pre and are flying out of Philly, head to Terminal C and go through one of the fastest security lines you will experience at a major airport. Don’t worry all of the terminals at PHL connect airside so even if you are flying out of Terminal A or Terminal E you can still use Terminal C PreCheck security.
- There are a multitude of credit cards that will reimburse your cost to get Pre-Check or Global Entry so there is really no excuse not to sav yourself a lot of time and aggravation and get PreCheck.
In conclusion, TSA PreCheck is a valuable program for travelers who want to streamline the security screening process, reduce wait times, and increase their peace of mind. With the benefits of shorter lines, quicker screening, and no removal of shoes, laptops, belts, and light jackets, TSA PreCheck is a convenient and efficient option for travelers and I personally would hate to fly without PreCheck on my boarding pass.