Navigating Airport Security with Ease: A Guide to Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
Traveling can be a thrilling experience, whether you're embarking on a new adventure or heading home to loved ones. But one aspect of travel that can be stressful for many passengers is navigating airport security. Long lines, removing shoes and belts, unpacking laptops – it's enough to make even the most seasoned traveler feel frazzled. Fortunately, there are programs designed to streamline the airport security process and make travel a breeze. Two such programs are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. These programs offer expedited screening for pre-approved, low-risk travelers, allowing them to breeze through security with ease. But what exactly are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, and how can you take advantage of them? Let's dive in. What is Global Entry? Global Entry is a program operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to expedite their entry into the United States. The program is primarily designed for international travelers, offering a faster and more efficient way to clear customs and immigration when arriving at U.S. airports. Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck benefits, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers. What is TSA PreCheck? TSA PreCheck is a program operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that provides expedited security screening for pre-approved travelers departing from U.S. airports. With TSA PreCheck, passengers can enjoy benefits such as keeping their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, leaving laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags, and passing through dedicated security lanes, saving valuable time and hassle. How to Apply Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck require an application process, but the steps are relatively straightforward. Global Entry: Apply Online: Visit the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) website and complete the online application. You'll be asked to provide personal information, travel history, and employment details. Schedule an Interview: After submitting your application and paying the non-refundable application fee (typically $100), you'll need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. During the interview, a CBP officer will verify your identity, review your application, and ask questions about your travel history and eligibility for the program. Receive Approval: If your application is approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can use when booking flights. Your Global Entry membership is valid for five years. TSA PreCheck: Apply Online or In-Person: You can apply for TSA PreCheck online through the TSA's website or in person at an enrollment center. The online application requires similar information to the Global Entry application, including personal details and travel history. Schedule an Appointment: After completing the online application, you'll need to schedule an in-person appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center. During the appointment, you'll provide biometric information (such as fingerprints) and undergo a brief interview with a TSA representative. Receive Approval: Once your application is approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) via email. You can then use this KTN when booking flights to enjoy TSA PreCheck benefits. Like Global Entry, TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years. Making the Most of Your Membership Once you're approved for Global Entry and/or TSA PreCheck, it's essential to make the most of your membership. Here are a few tips to help you breeze through airport security: Update Your Travel Profiles: Make sure your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is added to your airline frequent flyer profiles to ensure you receive TSA PreCheck benefits when booking flights. Arrive Early: While Global Entry and TSA PreCheck can significantly speed up the security process, it's still essential to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, especially during peak travel periods. Follow the Rules: Even with expedited screening, it's crucial to follow TSA guidelines and regulations. Be prepared to remove any prohibited items from your carry-on bag and comply with any additional screening procedures if necessary. Renew Your Membership: Global Entry and TSA PreCheck memberships are valid for five years. Be sure to renew your membership before it expires to avoid any disruption to your travel plans. Final Thoughts Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are valuable programs that can make the travel experience more efficient and enjoyable for eligible passengers. By completing the application process and following the guidelines outlined above, you can breeze through airport security with ease and focus on enjoying your journey to the fullest. So, whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, consider enrolling in Global Entry and TSA PreCheck to take the stress out of airport security and make your next trip a smooth and seamless experience.
By EasySkies Travel 2024, Apr 30, 2024
Everything you need to know about Matmid
How to earn miles: A regular member of matmid earns 6 miles per dollar spent on flights, seat upgrades, extra luggage purchased and upgrades purchased in advance (not at the airport). A silver member earns 8 miles per dollar. A gold member earns 9 miles per dollar. A platinum member earns 11 miles per dollar. A top platinum member earns 12 miles per dollar. Elal oBers 2 Israeli credit cards: 1. The Fly Card entitles its cardholder to earn 10% more miles than would otherwise be earned. 2. The Fly Card Premium entitles its cardholder to earn 20% more than would otherwise be earned. Being that Elal doesn’t currently have a credit card outside of Israel, every non-Israeli member who earns more than 5,000 miles in a year joins the Executive Club and earns 20% more points, same as a Fly Card Premium cardholder. How to earn status: Elal has a system called diamonds which is how it determines status in which all members including elite members earn 1 diamond per dollar spent on flights, seat upgrades, extra luggage purchased and upgrades purchased in advance (not at the airport). Fly card premium cardholders and executive club members earn 1.2 diamonds per dollar spent on flights, seat upgrades, extra luggage purchased and upgrades purchased in advance (not at the airport). To earn silver status, you must earn 3,000 diamonds or 2,000 diamonds and 6 paid flights on Elal in a 12-month period. To earn gold status, you must first earn silver status and then in the subsequent 12 months you must earn 6,000 diamonds or 3,500 diamonds and 10 paid flights on Elal. To earn platinum status, you must first earn gold status and then in the subsequent 12 months you must earn 12,000 diamonds or 7,000 diamonds and 20 paid flights on Elal. To earn top platinum status, you must first earn platinum status and then in the subsequent 12 months you must earn 28,000 diamonds or 25,000 diamonds and 40 paid flights on Elal. Status Benefits: Silver: 2 suitcases of 50 lbs (excluding Lite tickets that do not include luggage). Silver members who are Executive club members or fly card cardholders get vouchers with additional benefits: 1. One upgrade voucher valid for a one class upgrade. This must be requested online between 24-72 hours before the flight and you will be notified at the gate. 2. One voucher for a free suitcase (in addition to the 2 that a silver member is eligible to) this must be used by online check-in. 3. 3 vouchers for extra legroom seats to be used by the member and people traveling on the same itinerary. This must be used by online check-in. Gold: 2 suitcases of 70 lbs (excluding Lite tickets that do not include luggage). 2 hand luggages with a combined weight of 26 pounds (excluding Lite tickets). Free extra legroom seats (excluding Lite tickets). This can be booked from the time of purchase. Access to business class check in. Lounge access for the member, companion and 4 children up to the age of 21 flying on the same flight as the gold member with a limit of 10 companions per year. This only applies when flying Elal. Gold members who are not Executive club members or Fly Card cardholders get 3 vouchers for extra legroom seats. This can be used by online check-in for people traveling on the same itinerary. Gold members who are Executive club members or fly card cardholders get vouchers with additional benefits: 1. 2 upgrade vouchers valid for a one class upgrade. This must be requested online between 24-72 hours before the flight and you will be notified at the gate. 2. 2 vouchers for a free suitcase (in addition to the 2 that a gold member is eligible to). This must be used by online check-in. 3. 4 vouchers for extra legroom seats for people traveling on the same itinerary. This must be used by online check-in. Platinum: 2 suitcases of 70 lbs (excluding Lite tickets that do not include luggage). 2 hand luggages with a combined weight of 26 pounds (excluding Lite tickets). Free extra legroom seats (excluding Lite tickets). This can be booked from the time of purchase. Access to business class check in. Priority boarding. Lounge access for the member, companion and 4 children up to the age of 21 flying on the same flight as the cardholder. This applies only when flying Elal. 2 vouchers for use by the member only to access the lounge when flying other airlines. Platinum members who aren’t Executive club members or fly card cardholders get vouchers with additional benefits: 1. 2 upgrade vouchers valid for a one class upgrade. This must be requested online between 24-72 hours before the flight and you will be notified at the gate. 2. 2 vouchers for a free suitcase (in addition to the 2 that a platinum member is eligible to). This must be used by online check-in. 3. 3 vouchers for extra legroom seats for people traveling on the same itinerary. This must be used by online check-in. Platinum members who are Executive club members or fly card cardholders get vouchers with additional benefits: 1. 3 upgrade vouchers valid for a one class upgrade. This can be requested online between 24-72 hours before the flight and you will be notified at the gate. 2. 3 vouchers for a free suitcase (in addition to the 2 that a platinum member is eligible to). This must be used by online check-in. 3. 5 vouchers for extra legroom seats for people traveling on the same itinerary. This must be used by online check-in. Top Platinum: 3 suitcases of 70 lbs (excluding Lite tickets that do not include luggage). 2 hand luggages with a combined weight of 26 pounds(excluding Lite tickets). Free extra legroom seats for the member and 1 companion. This can be booked from the time of purchase. Access to business class check in. Access to business class security lines in Ben Gurion airport. Priority boarding. Lounge access for the member, companion and 4 children up to the age of 21 flying on the same flight as the cardholder. This applies only when flying Elal. Lounge access for the member and one companion when flying on other airlines. Phone number of a dedicated account manager in Elal. Top Platinum members who aren’t Executive club members or fly card cardholders get vouchers with additional benefits: 1. 3 upgrade vouchers valid for a one class upgrade. This must be requested online between 24-72 hours before the flight and you will be notified at the gate. 2. 3 vouchers for a free suitcase (in addition to the 3 that a top platinum member is eligible to). This must be used by online check-in. 3. 4 vouchers for extra legroom seats for people traveling on the same itinerary. This must be used by online check-in. Top Platinum members who are Executive club members or fly card cardholders get vouchers with additional benefits: 1. 6 upgrade vouchers valid for a one class upgrade. This can be requested online between 24-72 hours before the flight and you will be notified at the gate. 2. 6 vouchers for a free suitcase (in addition to the 3 that a top platinum member is eligible to). This must be used by online check-in. 3. 6 vouchers for extra legroom seats for people traveling on the same itinerary. This must be used by online check-in
By EasySkies Travel 2024, Apr 30, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to New York City: Unveiling the Magic with Easy Skies Travel"
New York City, the city that never sleeps, is a dazzling mosaic of culture, history, and modernity. In this guide, Easy Skies Travel invites you to discover the heartbeat of the Big Apple — from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, cultural hotspots to culinary delights. Brace yourself for a journey through the boroughs, as we unveil the magic of New York City. Marvel at the silhouette of the city from atop the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock. Easy Skies ensures you capture breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, a sight that defines the city's allure. Embark on a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and a testament to the city's immigrant history. Easy Skies offers seamless access to this iconic monument, ensuring your visit is both educational and inspiring.
By EasySkies, Dec 27, 2023
Exquisite Passover Retreats: Easy Skies' Luxury Escapes in Israel
Escape to the enchanting landscapes of Israel for an extraordinary Passover retreat with Easy Skies. In this blog post, we'll guide you through exclusive and luxurious options, from beachside resorts to historic hideaways, where you can immerse yourself in the traditions of Pesach while enjoying the comforts of unparalleled hospitality.
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Chasing the Northern Lights: Easy Skies' Aurora Borealis Adventure
Witness the magic of the Northern Lights with Easy Skies as we guide you through the best destinations to experience this celestial phenomenon. Prepare for an enchanting journey under the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis. Let Easy Skies illuminate your path to this breathtaking natural spectacle.
By EasySkies, Dec 27, 2023
Elevate Your Travel Experience: Easy Skies and the Pinnacle of Business Class Comfort
In the realm of travel, where comfort meets luxury, there's a class that stands above the rest — Business Class. For discerning travelers who seek more than just a seat; they seek an experience. In this pursuit of excellence, Easy Skies emerges as the go-to travel agency that not only understands the desire for elevated travel but also ensures it comes at the best prices. The Business Class Advantage: Business Class is synonymous with unparalleled comfort, exquisite dining, and personalized service. It goes beyond reaching a destination; it's about arriving refreshed and ready. From spacious seating to priority check-ins, the perks are as indulgent as they are practical. Recognizing the allure of this premium experience, Easy Skies has curated a seamless journey for its clientele.