Why TSA Precheck Is a Must-Have For Business Travelers

You know who wants to wait in long lines at the airport? Nobody. That’s why AmTrav recommends all business travelers register for TSA Precheck, a system that allows you to speed through airport security.

So What IS Precheck?

Basically, TSA Precheck is a program that allows low-risk travelers to get through security faster. You can apply online, then you have to go to an in-person interview that includes fingerprinting and a background check. Once approved, an $85 fee gets you the program for five years. And here’s the best part—you get to go in the shorter line at airport security. And you don’t have to remove your shoes, belt, jackets, liquids, or laptops. OK, maybe the best part is watching everyone else’s face slogging through long lines while you’re already on the other side. Your call.

Business Travelers Prefer It.

Any frequent traveler knows that the TSA experience at an airport can set the tone for an entire trip. Getting hassled is no fun and just makes people crabby. And since business trips are stressful enough as it is, why bother with the extra irritation? You know you’ll be toting a laptop along, and those can be a pain to extract from luggage—so why do it?

Not only do travel management companies suggest the program, but business travelers prefer it. A recent study by the Global Business Travel Association found that 66 percent of business travelers are more satisfied with the entire air travel experience when using TSA Precheck, while 54 percent of the business travelers not enrolled in the program are unsatisfied. The Association concluded that the program is indeed a boon to the business travel process.

Don’t forget about Global Entry!

If your business travels see you flying internationally on a frequent basis, Global Entry will be your best friend. Instead of waiting in the ridiculously long customs and passport control lines at some of the major hubs, all you’ll need to do is scan your passport into a kiosk, fill out a quick customs survey, and then zoom through to baggage and get out the door. You’ll get to skip the line—and the awkward customs officer questioning—completely. One fee will get you both Precheck and Global Entry; get both at once or you’ll lose money. Just keep in mind that some airports don’t allow Precheck security benefits for international flights, though you’ll still have the perks of Global Entry on the way back into the country.

By: Jen B.