As the owner of Platinum Travel, I’m often asked: “Which program should I get?” I usually steer clients toward Global Entry, but let’s explore all three so you can choose what works best for your travel style.
What Each Program Does
Global Entry
- Expedites U.S. Customs & Border Protection on re-entry from international trips
- Includes TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic departures
TSA PreCheck
- Speeds you through security lanes for domestic and select international departures
- No need to remove shoes, belts, liquids or laptops
Clear
- Uses biometric ID (fingerprint or iris scan) to verify your identity at security checkpoints
- Can be paired with TSA PreCheck for an even faster experience
Pros & Cons
Global Entry
- Pros:
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- Includes TSA PreCheck at no extra cost
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- Five-year membership for $100 (just $20 per year)
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- Speeds up re-entry after international travel
- Cons:
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- Requires an in-person interview at a CBP Enrollment Center
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- Approval times can vary from days to months
TSA PreCheck
- Pros:
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- Simple application and shorter interview
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- Ideal for frequent domestic flyers
- Cons:
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- No expedited customs when returning from abroad
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- Costs $85 for five years
Clear
- Pros:
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- Very fast ID verification—often under two minutes to the front of the line
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- Also available at sports arenas and stadiums
- Cons:
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- Approximately $189 per year
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- Still requires TSA security screening (unless paired with PreCheck)
Why I Recommend Global Entry
- You get both expedited customs and TSA PreCheck in one program.
- Your $100 investment lasts five years, making it the best value for international and domestic travel combined.
- I’ll guide you through the application and interview process to make it as painless as possible.
Final Thoughts
If your journeys are purely domestic, TSA PreCheck might be all you need. If budget allows you want the absolute fastest experience at airports and events, Clear plus PreCheck is unbeatable. But for most travelers, Global Entry offers the broadest perks at the best price. If only our luggage could have Global Entry too, so we didn’t have to wait at baggage claim too…
Ready to skip the lines and spend your time exploring instead?
If you have any other questions, you can contact me (Sara) at: sara@platinumtravelwi.com | 414-377-8611
Sara is the owner of Platinum Travel and specializes in creating luxury, customized, stress free vacations for people who want to see the world and all things Disney.You can reach her at 414-377-8611 or Sara@PlatinumTravelWI.com to start planning your vacation today.
