**Summary:**
* Spring Break travel tip: Avoid long airport security lines with TSA PreCheck.
* Many credit cards offer statement credits towards the cost of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Nexus.
* Top picks for no-annual-fee and low-annual-fee cards that offer TSA PreCheck credits.
* Comparison of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Nexus programs.
* Personal experiences and thoughts on the usefulness of TSA PreCheck.
Spring Break is around the corner, and long airport security lines are the last thing you want to deal with. But what if you could breeze through security with TSA PreCheck? Many credit cards offer statement credits towards the cost of these trusted traveler programs. Here’s a guide to help you avoid those pesky lines.
Why TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck allows you to keep your shoes, belt, light jacket, and laptop in your bag and speed through airport security. It’s especially handy during busy travel seasons like spring break. A five-year membership starts at $78, but many credit cards can help you cover the cost.
Credit Cards Offering TSA PreCheck Credits
No-Annual-Fee Cards
- American Airlines Credit Union Visa® Signature credit card – $100 every 4 years
- Arvest Visa Signature® Credit Card – $85 for TSA PreCheck or $120 for Global Entry every 4 years
- Truist Enjoy Travel credit card – $85 every 4 years
- U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card – $100 every 4 years
Intro Annual Fee Cards
- Capital One® Spark® Miles Card – $120 for 4 years, annual fee waived for the first year
- Provident World+ Travel® Visa Signature® – $85 for TSA PreCheck or $100 for Global Entry for 5 years, annual fee waived for the first year
- Truist Business Travel Rewards credit card – $85 for 4 years, annual fee waived for the first year
- United℠ Explorer Card – $120 for 4 years, annual fee waived for the first year
Low Annual Fee Cards
- Aeroplan® Credit Card – $120 for 4 years, $95 annual fee
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card – $100 for 4 years, $95 annual fee
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card – $120 for 4 years, $95 annual fee
- Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard® – $120 for 4 years, $95 annual fee
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card – $120 for 4 years, $99 annual fee
- Navy Federal Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card – $120 for 4 years, $49 annual fee
- PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card – $120 for 4 years, $95 annual fee (waived for PenFed Honors Advantage Members)
- Truist Enjoy Beyond credit card – $120 for 4 years, $95 annual fee
- USAA Eagle Navigator™ Visa Signature® Credit Card – $120 for 4 years, $95 annual fee
- U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card – $120 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck for 4 or 4.5 years respectively, $85 annual fee
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Nexus Comparison
TSA PreCheck | Global Entry | Nexus |
---|---|---|
Best for traveling through US airports | Best for international travel | Best for travel between the US and Canada |
Streamlined security at US airports | Expedited entry and streamlined processing at airports and border checkpoints with Global Entry + TSA PreCheck | Expedited processing when entering the US or Canada + TSA PreCheck |
$77.95 (varies by enrollment provider) | $120 | $120 |
5 years | 5 years | 5 years |
US citizens, US nationals, US lawful permanent residents | US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, select foreign nationals | US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, Mexican nationals |
Application, 10-minute appointment at enrollment provider | Application, Interview on arrival at select airports or at an enrollment center | Application, In-person appointment at an enrollment center |
Do You Really Need TSA PreCheck?
While TSA PreCheck can be a time-saving convenience, it’s not always necessary or useful. Frequent travelers may find it invaluable, while occasional travelers might not see the benefit. Consider your travel habits and decide if TSA PreCheck is worth it for you.