9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Paying $77 for TSA PreCheck

I’ve been a TSA PreCheck member ever since I turned 18, and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. If you ever see me at the airport, I’m ditching my partner, who doesn’t have PreCheck, and zooming through the lines without pulling my items out of the bag, saying, “I’ll meet you on the other side.”

Here’s what I wish I’d known before paying for TSA PreCheck —it totally would have changed how I went about it!

First up, what is TSA PreCheck? You might have seen signs around the airport with that big ‘ole green checkmark calling for you with shorter lines. It’s a special program where you can sign up prior to visiting the airport. You visit a TSA PreCheck site, go through a background check, and receive a TSA PreCheck number. Then you add the number to your account as your Known Traveler Number and you’re on your way!

You’ll have to pay an initial fee and then renew it every five years with an additional fee. Now that you know the details, let’s talk about the nitty-gritty.

1. You Might Not Have to Pay For It

There are a few programs you might already be part of that cover the cost of TSA PreCheck. Some credit cards will reimburse you for the cost of Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck. I was originally gifted my initial fees, but I wish we had known about the credit card perks because they could have saved my family some money! AAA also has discounts and loyalty programs that may include it. Active duty members of the U.S. military can get it for free, too!

2. You Might Have to Complete Additional Screenings

Not too often, but occasionally, you might be pulled to complete an additional security screening. You have to answer a few extra questions, have your items searched, and go through additional scanners. While it can happen to anyone, PreCheck or not, it’s still possible ot be pulled with PreCheck. Because of this, we always make sure we have enough time to go through security, even though it’s usually pretty quick.

3. The PreCheck Line Can be Longer

Yep, we don’t like it either. Sometimes the PreCheck line can be longer than the traditional lines. You’re more than welcome to hop in the normal lines, but keep in mind that they might not allow you he same perks. Personally, I prefer to stick to the TSA PreCheck line because the queues are often physically shorter, meaning they hold fewer people and look longer than they really are. I also find that the line still moves faster even though it looks longer, too.

4. TSA PreCheck Might Have Different Hours Than the Normal TSA

Depending on he airport, TSA PreCheck might open later. Don’t worry, you can check the times and how long the lines are on the TSA PreCheck website. You can sometimes still use your TSA PreCheck perks, like not having to take electronics out of your bag, going through the normal line, so make sure you show that when you scan your ID.

5. Some Airports Don’t Have TSA PreCheck

Smaller airports might not have a separate TSA PreCheck line, so you won’t be skipping the crowds. Some will still allow you to use your perks, but others won’t acknowledge any difference. We don’t come across this too often since they’re at over 250 airports, but it’s something to keep in mind if your home airport is smaller than most.

6. Packing Rules Still Apply

You still can’t bring on any illegal items, and your liquids must be less than 3.4 ounces. With PreCheck, you might not have to pull out items from your bag, like larger electronics or those liquids. PreCheck used to let you keep your shoes on through security, but now that’s a huge perk at most airports!

7. If You Opt for Global Entry, It Includes PreCheck

Global Entry is helpful for international trips and includes TSA PreCheck. Make sure you’re not paying for PreCheck if you’re getting Global Entry, since it’s already included. Some credit cards will also cover Global Entry.

8. TSA PreCheck is So Much Easier for Mobility Device Users

As a wheelchair user, going through the airport is not my favorite thing in the world. Because some of us can’t stand up to go through the scans, TSA agents have to physically pat you down, along with your chair, before letting you through. Not only does this take a while, but I’d rather avoid being touched by strangers if I can. With TSA PreCheck, you go through the normal PreCheck line, and they give you a visual inspection and a pat down of just your wheelchair, which I call a win!

9. Some Airports Have Other FREE Skip the Line Services

At Orlando International Airport (MCO), there’s MCO Reserve, where you can schedule a time to go through security for free. We love using this service since the Orlando Airport can get SLAMMED with all the families going to Disney World and business travelers coming in for conferences; MCO is always packed. Once you arrive at the airport at your selected time, you go through an exclusive, shorter security line.

Now you tell us: what do you wish you knew before joining TSA PreCheck? Tell us in the comments, and make sure you keep following AllEars for more!

3 WAYS TO SKIP THE LINE AT ORLANDO AIRPORT SECURITY

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