3 Ways to Skip Airport Security: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR (And How to Get Them for Free!)
Advertiser Disclosure: The Rewards Mom has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Rewards Mom and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Traveling with kids can be stressful enough—add long security lines, and it’s easy to see why so many parents dread the airport. But here’s the good news: there are ways to skip those security headaches, breeze through the lines, and make travel days so much smoother for your family. Today, I’m breaking down TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR—three programs that help you get through airport security faster—and how you can get them for free.
TSA PreCheck: The Family-Friendly Time Saver
TSA PreCheck is a game-changer for families. It lets you use designated security lanes where you can keep your shoes on, your liquids and electronics stay in your bag, and the whole experience is just... less. Kids 12 and under can go through the PreCheck line with an enrolled parent—so you only need to sign up the adults.
This perk alone has saved us so much time (and stress). No unpacking electronics, no struggling with bins. If you fly even once or twice a year, it’s worth having.
You’ll fill out an online application and schedule a short appointment for a background check and fingerprinting. The cost is $78 for five years—but I’ll show you how to get it reimbursed below.
Global Entry: The Shortcut for International Flyers
Global Entry includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck but adds expedited customs and immigration processing when you’re returning to the U.S. from abroad. Instead of waiting in long reentry lines, you scan your passport at a kiosk and breeze through.
It’s been a lifesaver for us after long international flights. And like TSA PreCheck, your kids can join you in the PreCheck line if you have Global Entry.
You apply online, then schedule an interview at an enrollment center—or take advantage of "Enrollment on Arrival" at select airports. It’s $120 for five years, and some cards cover the cost. Bonus: Some programs waive the fee for kids if a parent is enrolled.
CLEAR: Speed Through ID Checks with Biometrics
CLEAR uses your eyes or fingerprints to verify your identity and skip the ID check line altogether. It works with TSA PreCheck for an even faster experience and is currently available at many major U.S. airports.
Yes, it’s the most expensive at $189 per year—but it doesn’t require an appointment or interview, which makes it way easier to get started (especially with kids in tow). Plus, kids under 18 can join you for free.
Want to Skip the Fees? Use the Right Credit Card
Several credit cards cover the cost of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR. If you're just getting into points and perks, here’s a list of my favorite cards that make skipping security lines a breeze: https://www.cardratings.com/bestcards/featured-credit-cards?src=694508&shnq=3006151,4048272,4048084,4048122,4028089
Each one offers a credit to cover the application fee for either TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR. Some offer lounge access or travel credits too—so you’re not just saving time at security, but getting extra perks along the way.
Pro tip: These credits don’t have to be used by the cardholder. That means you can use one card to pay for your partner’s application and another to cover your own. It’s one of my favorite ways to stack family travel benefits.
If you haven’t already, check out my posts on what to pack for airport travel days with kids and how we save on food while traveling. Little things like snacks and a well-packed carry-on can make all the difference.
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And if you’re ready to start earning points for your next trip, check out my guide to the best beginner cards here and start planning that vacation.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
Advertiser Disclosure: The Rewards Mom has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Rewards Mom and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
