It seems like everything these days is getting more expensive. Hotels and airfare certainly cost more now than they did before the pandemic. However, not everything is going up in price. In fact, TSA Pre-Check got cheaper!
TSA Pre-Check is wonderful thing to have. Those that have Pre-Check can leave their shoes on and keep their electronics in their bags at security check points. It’s something I’ve had since the very beginning since I travel with a heavy load of electronics. Before that, TSA agents would inspect each piece of camera gear I had with me along with my laptop. So even if there wasn’t a line, I’d easily be stuck at the check point for five to ten minutes. Thank goodness I don’t have to endure that anymore!
Yet, the vast majority of the flying public doesn’t yet have Pre-Check. Why? Maybe they don’t think they fly enough? Or they never bring a carry-on? Who knows. But, now, there’s a little less of a reason to not have it.
TSA Pre-Check Got Cheaper!
As of last Friday, TSA Pre-Check got cheaper. Specifically, the enrollment fee decreased from $85 to $78, while the renewal fee decreased to $70. Membership is good for five years, that first five-term costs you $15.60 per year, while subsequent terms come in at $14 per year. That’s not a lot of coin for the amount of convenience it provides. And, no, the much pricer CLEAR service isn’t the same thing. They get you to the front of the line, but if you don’t already have Pre-Check, you still gotta take your shoes off and take your electronics out.
Still Consider Global Entry
While TSA Pre-Check got cheaper and Global Entry did not, I still think you should consider that option too. Global Entry costs $100 every five years, meaning it’ll cost you $28 more for the first five years and $30 more for subsequent five-year terms. That breaks down to $20 per year. So what does that extra $30 per year get you? On top of Global Entry, you’ll get access to immigration kiosks rather than having to endure the traditional lines. You can also get expedited screening at land borders too. Now that the difference in price has nearly doubled (it used to be just $15 less than Pre-Check), is it still worth it? I say so.
Final Thoughts
With Pre-Check lines getting as long as they’ve ever been, I wonder why they chose to cut prices now? If I had to wager a guess, it’s because they want people to opt in for Pre-Check instead of Global Entry right now, as wait times for the later are still quite long. Pre-Check, on the other hand, has much faster processing times. In fact, you could apply now and get your Pre-Check before the holiday travel rush. But if you’re going to get it now, you should get it soon!