Travel Smart: Unlock Stress-Free Journeys with Credit Card Perks

Traveling can sometimes be a stressful experience, with long security lines and the dread of customs upon arrival being common pain points for passengers. Fortunately, programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck offer a solution to expedite these processes, making your travel experience more seamless and enjoyable. Even better, many credit cards offer reimbursements for the application fees of these programs. This blog post will explore how you can take advantage of these credit card perks and enjoy hassle-free travel.

Understanding Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Before diving into the credit card benefits, it’s essential to understand what Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are and how they function:

• Global Entry: This program is designed for international travelers arriving in the United States. It allows expedited clearance through customs and immigration. Members can use special kiosks at select airports, thereby significantly reducing wait times.
• TSA PreCheck: Aimed at domestic travelers, this program enables you to go through a simplified and faster security screening process at airports. As a member, you won’t have to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets, thus making the security process quicker and more efficient.

Credit Cards Offering Global Entry & TSA PreCheck Benefits

A variety of credit cards offer reimbursement for application fees associated with Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. These cards essentially cover the cost of enrollment once every four to five years, as the memberships are valid for five years. Let’s look at some popular credit cards that provide this benefit:

Premium Travel Cards

• The Platinum Card® from American Express: Alongside a wide array of other travel perks, this card offers a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or a $85 statement credit for TSA PreCheck.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Known for its travel rewards, this card also includes a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years.

Other Travel-Friendly Cards

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: This card provides a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card: Travelers will appreciate the $100 statement credit towards these travel programs.

Applying For Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

Once you have a credit card that offers a statement credit, applying for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Global Entry Application Process

• Fill out the online application through the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website and pay the non-refundable application fee, which can be reimbursed through your credit card statement credit.
• Schedule an interview at a CBP enrollment center. This could involve some waiting time, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
• Attend the interview with your identification documents and supporting paperwork.

TSA PreCheck Application Process

• Start by filling out the online application available on the TSA website.
• Schedule an in-person appointment, where you’ll need to provide fingerprints and other identification.
• After approval, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can use when booking flights to enjoy expedited security screening.

Conclusion

For frequent travelers, Global Entry and TSA PreCheck can save a considerable amount of time and enhance the travel experience. By leveraging the benefits offered by select credit cards, you can offset the cost of these programs, allowing you to travel smarter and more efficiently. Whether you are a seasoned globe-trotter or someone who enjoys occasional journeys, taking advantage of these credit card perks can significantly improve your airport experiences.

Interested in learning more about the best credit cards for travel rewards? Stay tuned for future posts where we’ll delve deeper into optimizing credit card benefits for avid travelers!