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Global Entry vs TSA Precheck

We recently went through the TSA Precheck process, and have used it almost 20 times in the last year. Now you may be hearing, "for just $15 more you can get Global Entry"...but it isn't always that simple! 

We love our TSA Precheck, both TSA Precheck and Global Entry gets you expedited lines through TSA in the U.S. Not only is the line shorter, but you don't have to remove your shoes (unless you have metal that will set off the metal detector) or remove approved liquids from your bags. The "system" identifies you with a Known Traveler Number "KTN" that you input when you book your airline tickets. There will be a little "TSA Precheck" check mark in the top of your airplane ticket when you get ready to go through TSA.

Now, if you're looking into TSA Precheck, you may want to consider Global Entry as an alternate, but here are a few things to consider:  

Cost:
Global entry costs $100 while than TSA Precheck costs $85

Convenience at Sign up:
TSA Precheck is available interviews are available at more locations than Global Entry. For example, we signed up for our TSA Precheck interview in Omaha, but our closest location for Global Entry is in Kansas City (3 hours away). In general, Global Entry signup is available at international airports. 

Turnaround Time for Approval:
I've heard that the wait lists can be very long in large cities during peak travel time for Global Entry. It may take months for you to be able to schedule your interview after completing the initial paperwork. We were able to get into the TSA Precheck appointment within just a couple days.

Convenience of Use:
Global Entry can be used (you guessed it) globally where TSA Precheck is used just within the United States.

Time Active:
Both are active for 5 years

Minor Children:
This ended up being the kicker for us signing up for TSA Precheck over Global Entry. Children under the age of 13 may travel with a TSA Precheck adult for free. Global Entry requires all children to go through the Global entry process (and cost). 

We've traveled with Lorelai as well as our niece through TSA Precheck, the minor children do not have to be related to go through TSA with you in the Precheck line. This is so incredibly handy not having to take off your shoes and speed through a line with a baby attached to your chest. If only the adults in your party have Global Entry, you can still get the minor children through the TSA Precheck line in the states, but you can't when traveling internationally.

So why did we choose TSA Precheck? In short, the cost of TSA Precheck and convenience for the benefit. Although we love international travel, we suspect we will only be traveling internationally a handful of times in the next 5 years. Now, when Lorelai is 5...perhaps we will take her on some whirlwind trips abroad, but not until we don't have to pack and entire suitcase of diapers along. 

 This is how it worked out for us

Global Entry: 
-3 people (2 adults and Lorelai) =$300 plus either a trip to Kansas City (3 hour drive with an infant, parking cost and wait time at the airport) 
-2 people (but we would not be able to use it if traveling internationally with Lorelai) $200 and a trip to Kansas City 
TSA Precheck: 
-2 people= $170 and a quick 15 minute appointment a few miles away from our house. 




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