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Best Credit Cards for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR Plus in 2024
December 12, 2024
Are you tired of long airport security lines eating into your travel time? Savvy travelers know that Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR Plus can be game-changers for speeding through airports. Even better, several premium credit cards offer reimbursements for these trusted traveler programs, allowing you to breeze through security without breaking the bank. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just looking to make your occasional trips smoother, these cards could be your ticket to a more relaxed travel experience.
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Best for: Beginner Travelers
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card stands out for its simplicity and robust rewards structure, making it an excellent choice for all travelers, from beginners to experts. With a straightforward earning rate of 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, this card eliminates the need to keep track of rotating bonus categories. This uncomplicated approach is particularly appealing to busy individuals who want to maximize their rewards without the hassle of monitoring spending categories. As a cardholder, you'll receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®. This alone offsets the $95 annual fee (see rates & fees).
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Best for: Luxury Travelers
The Platinum Card® from American Express distinguishes itself as the top choice for TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry, and CLEAR® Plus due to its comprehensive coverage of all three expedited security programs. Not only does it offer up to a $120 credit for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry every four years, it also provides up to $199 for a CLEAR® Plus Credit membership annually. This alone makes the Platinum American Express the most complete option for frequent travelers looking to breeze through airport security. Amex Platinum cardholders also enjoy extensive airport lounge access, elite status with hotel loyalty programs, and other luxury travel perks (see rates & fees).
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Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Best For: Travel Perks
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers exceptional value for expedited airport security programs, matching premium competitors with its up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years. What sets it apart is its lower annual fee compared to other premium travel cards, making it an attractive option for travelers who want these benefits without the higher cost typically associated with other ultra-premium credit cards.
This benefit, combined with its generous rewards structure and additional travel perks, make the Capital One Venture X a top-tier travel rewards card (see rates & fees).
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Best for: Travel and Dining Rewards
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® continues to be a favorite among travelers and it's easy to see why. The card offers a statement credit for expedited traveler programs once every four years, covering up to $100 through September 30, 2024, and increases to $120 starting October 1, 2024. It applies to your application fee for either Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS, whether charged by you or an authorized user on your account. Another standout feature of the Sapphire Reserve is the flexibility of its Ultimate Rewards points, which can be redeemed for travel at 1.5 cents per point through Chase Travel™ or transferred to various airline and hotel partners, potentially increasing their value even further for savvy travelers.
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Best for: Business Travelers
The Capital One Venture X Business is an exceptional choice for small businesses seeking TSA PreCheck® benefits and more. It offers a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years, ensuring smoother travel for business owners and employees. Beyond this, the card shines with its generous rewards structure, offering 2X miles on every purchase and elevated earning rates on travel booked through Capital One. With a reasonable annual fee of $395 (see rates & fees) compared to other premium cards, comprehensive travel insurance, and access to Capital One's airport lounges, it provides a robust suite of benefits tailored to small business needs.
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Best for: Delta Loyalists
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card offers a compelling package for those who fly Delta Airlines regularly. It provides a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fees every four years, helping streamline airport security experiences. The card's real value lies in its Delta-specific perks, including a free checked bag on Delta flights, priority boarding, and the ability to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) towards elite status (see rates & fees).
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Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Comparing the Best Credit Cards for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR Plus
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Platinum American Express, and Capital One Venture X, all provide up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years. The Platinum Card from American Express goes a step further by providing an annual credit of up to $199 for CLEAR® Plus membership, setting it apart for travelers seeking comprehensive expedited security options.
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Conclusion
These premium travel credit cards have become invaluable tools for frequent flyers looking to take their airport experience to the next level. These benefits, combined with other travel perks such as lounge access, travel insurance, and robust rewards programs, can significantly streamline your journey and provide substantial value. While these cards often come with higher annual fees, the time saved and stress reduced at airport security can be well worth the investment for regular travelers.
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