There are two kinds of travelers at the airport: the ones stuck in endless lines, shoes in hand, juggling laptops, and the ones who breeze past them like they’ve unlocked a secret level of travel. Want to be in the second group? Good news—you can.
I’m Matt, the Americano, and today I’m walking you through the three best ways to skip TSA’s long security lines—TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR—plus a few bonus hacks that don’t cost a dime. Because time saved at the airport is time you get back for coffee, emails, or just catching your breath.
TSA PreCheck: The Domestic Traveler’s Best Friend
If you mostly fly inside the U.S., TSA PreCheck is a game-changer.
Here’s why:
You keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on.
Laptops and liquids stay in your bag.
You use a shorter, dedicated line.
The process to sign up is straightforward:
Apply online.
Book an appointment at an enrollment center.
Do a quick background check and fingerprint scan.
The fee? $85 for five years. That’s less than $20 a year for the privilege of skipping one of the most frustrating parts of flying. Over 200 U.S. airports and 80+ airlines participate, so odds are, if you’re flying, it’ll work.
For frequent domestic travelers, TSA PreCheck pays for itself in a single year of stress saved.
Global Entry: The International No-Brainer
If your passport gets regular use, Global Entry is the better deal.
For just $100 (five years), you get everything TSA PreCheck includes plus expedited re-entry into the U.S. after international trips.
That means:
Special kiosks at Customs when you land.
No endless passport control lines.
Faster clearance, straight to baggage claim or your connecting flight.
Yes, the application is a little more involved. You’ll do an online form, pay your fee, and attend an in-person interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. But if you travel abroad even twice a year, this is a no-brainer. For $15 more than TSA PreCheck, you essentially get two programs in one.
CLEAR: The Private VIP Pass
Here’s where things get interesting. CLEAR isn’t run by the government—it’s a private membership service.
How it works:
You step up to a kiosk.
Your identity is verified with biometrics (fingerprint or eye scan).
A CLEAR rep walks you straight to the front of the TSA line.
Cost? $189 a year. Pricey, yes, but many credit cards and airline loyalty programs offer discounts—or even cover the cost entirely.
CLEAR is currently in over 40 U.S. airports, with heavy presence at major hubs like Atlanta, LAX, and JFK. It’s also expanding into stadiums and event venues.
Combine CLEAR + TSA PreCheck, and you’re skipping both the ID check line and the traditional screening process. It’s the ultimate time-saver for road warriors.
Other Ways to Speed Things Up (Even Without Memberships)
Not ready to commit to a program? You can still hack the system:
Fly off-peak. Early mornings, midweek, or late nights usually mean shorter lines.
Use your phone boarding pass. Just make sure your battery is charged.
Pack smart. Put liquids and laptops in easy-to-reach spots if you don’t have PreCheck.
Check your credit cards. Many premium cards offer airline priority lanes or reimburse TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fees.
Business class? Some airlines include priority security with upgraded tickets.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Mostly domestic flyers: Go with TSA PreCheck. It’s cheap, effective, and lasts five years.
International travelers: Spend the extra $15 and get Global Entry. It’s TSA PreCheck plus the gift of skipping Customs lines.
Frequent fliers from busy hubs: Add CLEAR to your toolkit for the fastest combo possible.
Time saved in line isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind. And when you’re traveling for work or pleasure, peace of mind is priceless.