Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck

Time flies when you’re having fun traveling. Later this year it will be amongst five years since I applied and received my Global Entry. I’ve received notification that it is time to renew my Trusted Travel Program (TTP) which has replaced the Global Entry Online Enrollment System (GOES). I realize that this is something I need to act on due to the significant increase in application volume. Fortunately, they are extending the grace period from six months to one year for those of us who have a Trusted Traveler membership and need to renew.

As I ponder this, I’m reminded that there are many times I wonder if I need the Global Entry. It is amazing how quick and easy it is to enter the U.S. with this membership. The last couple of times have been so quick that I felt like I was missing something, and I’ve done a double take, looking over my shoulder to see if someone was chasing me down to catch up with my rule breakage. I am a perpetual rule follower to a fault so you can imagine my concern.  The thing that makes me wonder is after getting through so quickly I still have to wait for traveling colleagues that don’t have it, and together we wait for our luggage at the baggage claim. Since I’m spending so much time waiting is it worth it? I often muse. There have been times when I’ve arrived and the other lines are very long and I am out, with my luggage well before others have come through so I guess that is my answer.

TSA PreCheck is a program to expedite the TSA process when departing from the U.S. It currently costs $85 and I am seeing it grow in popularity as well. To me, TSA PreCheck is well worth it if for no other reason than not having to empty my bag of my computer and to be able to keep my shoes on. Global Entry is currently $100 and does include TSA PreCheck.

At the end of the day, I guess $15 is worth it and that is where I’ll stay. I am very curious what others think about this though. Please leave your thoughts in the comments and maybe sway my mind!