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There are certain universal truths we all must live with: rental car lines will always be too long and hot, and your toddler will likely melt down at the most inconvenient time in airport security. Streamlining your time is everything when you’re traveling with a family.

That’s why one of the smartest travel strategies I’ve learned over the years isn’t just about saving money; it’s about saving time. Here’s the secret: the right credit cards can help you skip the lines. Rental cars, airport security, hotel check-ins, can all be skipped! There are perks that make all of it smoother.

If you’re just getting started with points, my Beginner’s Guide to Travel Rewards is a great place to start.

Let’s talk about the benefits most families are missing, and how they can transform your trip.

TSA PreCheck & Global Entry: Because Security Lines + Kids = Chaos

The first time I used TSA PreCheck with my kids, I nearly cried from sheer joy. No removing shoes, no unpacking laptops, and the line? Practically nonexistent.

What makes it even better for families? Kids 12 and under can go through the TSA PreCheck line with you for free. That’s huge.

Many travel credit cards will reimburse your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee (up to $100). These programs are good for five years, and with Global Entry, you’ll also get expedited customs reentry when returning from international trips.

Mom tip: If you’re not planning international travel soon, TSA PreCheck alone might be all you need; it’s cheaper and just as effective for domestic trips.

Here’s a list of cards I recommend for skipping airport lines

Also see: 3 ways to skip airport security

Rental Car Perks: Skip the Counter and Drive Away

One of my least favorite parts of travel? Dragging the kids and all the luggage to a long rental car line, only to stand there forever with cranky kids.

But certain credit cards offer elite status with major rental car companies (like Hertz, National, and Avis), and that status often includes skip-the-counter privileges. That means you can walk right to your car and drive off. Yay for no paperwork, whining, or waiting!

Some even offer discounted rates or free upgrades, which is a dream when you’re squeezing car seats and suitcases into your ride.

Cards that help with rental car perks

Hotel Elite Status: Faster Check-In, Free Upgrades, and Late Checkout

When you show up to a hotel with four tired kids, the last thing you want is to wait in line while someone else tries to find their reservation.

Many credit cards come with automatic hotel elite status, which can include:

• Priority check-in
• Room upgrades
• Free breakfast
• Late checkout (nap time!)

Even if you’re booking with points, these benefits often still apply, and they make a huge difference for families trying to maximize every minute of vacation time.

Cards that offer hotel elite status perks

See: How to get a hotel upgrade without elite status

Airport Lounge Access: Calm Before the Flight

I used to pass right on by airport lounges without even registering them, until I took all four kids into one. Suddenly, having snacks, comfy seats, and clean bathrooms made travel feel manageable, even relaxing.

Some credit cards offer access to lounges like Priority Pass, Capital One Lounges, or Centurion Lounges. That means free food, Wi-Fi, and a place to breathe before boarding. If your card includes guest access, even better.

Pro tip: Some lounges even have family rooms or play areas, making them total lifesavers during long layovers.

Here are cards I always keep in my wallet

Don’t Forget to Actually Use the Perks

A lot of families don’t realize they already have these time-saving benefits, hidden in plain sight inside their wallet. Here’s what to do:

• Log into your credit card account and look under “Benefits” or “Offers.”
• Check if your card offers TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credits, rental car status, hotel perks, or lounge access.
• Activate any memberships (like enrolling in rental car programs or Priority Pass) before your trip.

Want help keeping your card benefits organized? I use Travel Freely to track mine.

If you love getting the most out of your points and saving time while traveling with kids, come join our Instagram community or Facebook group.

Want to start earning free family travel? Check out my free Beginner’s Guide to Travel Rewards.

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.