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10 travel memberships that are worth the money

November 11, 2021 // By Leila Najafi

By Leila Najafi November 11, 2021

We live in a subscription-obsessed world and there’s a subscription for everything you can imagine, from razors to clothing and even hot sauces. Travel memberships are on the rise, providing new ways to ease some of the stress that comes with traveling these days and help make the journey more seamless.

Whether you’re willing to pay a premium for exclusive travel experiences that provide a little more privacy or you're more budget-conscious and want to find the best travel deals, there’s a membership for every type of traveler. Here are 10 travel memberships that are worth considering.

Wheels Up offers private jet charter memberships so travelers can access a fleet of aircrafts, including a King Air 350i, an 8-passenger Citation Excel/XLS, and one of the fastest aircrafts, the Citation X. Wheels Up uses a dynamic pricing model offering competitive rates, so members can book flights on-demand with the flexibility to pay as they go.

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Additional m embership benefits include invites to signature events, President’s Circle status with Hertz, a complimentary trial of Inspirato Club subscription for 12 months (Core members only), certain perks at select Waldorf Astoria hotels across North America, a partnership with Delta SkyMiles, dedicated partnership rates with Porsche and more.

Membership cost: Three membership options are available – Connect, Core and Business. The Connect membership requires a one-time initiation fee of $2,995 and annual dues of $2,495 which begin on year two. The Core membership has an initiation fee of $17,500 and annual dues of $8,500 which begin on year two. The Business membership requires an initiation fee of $29,500 and $14,500 for subsequent years and includes up to six lead passengers.

Getting through airport security lines can be a drag, especially during holiday weekends and a pandemic that has increased the demand for more seclusion when traveling. PS (formerly known as Private Suite) is designed for first and business class travelers who are seeking privacy and convenience, allowing them to bypass LAX altogether.

Travelers check into a private terminal where they can relax in a fully-stocked luxury private suite that includes complimentary in-suite meals catered by h.wood Group , as well as additional services upon request such as in-suite massages, manicures and detailing services for personal cars. PS also provides a designated on-site TSA and Customs agent for expedited screening.

Upon boarding, travelers are transported across the tarmac directly to their aircraft in a BMW 7 Series sedan. Earlier this year, the Salon at PS launched, which features a new full-service lounge at the terminal for travelers who want the same benefits of PS but seek a more social experience.

Membership cost: Annual membership costs $4,500, which gives members access to a preferred rate of $3,250 for a one-way Suite experience for up to four travelers. The Salon is available to members and non-members for $695 per use per person.

Inspirato is a subscription-based luxury travel service that gives members exclusive access to over 150,000 luxury vacation homes and resorts around the world that are staffed by Inspirato. There are two membership types: Inspirato Club and Inspirato Pass. The former gives you access to the luxury residences and hotels around the world, on-site concierge and daily housekeeping with additional benefits such as late check-in and check-out, room upgrades, spa credits and more. However, members also pay nightly room rates.

With the Inspirato Pass, you automatically get the benefits of Inspirato Club plus nightly rates are already factored into the price of membership, so you can book as many vacations as possible in one month with one active reservation at a time. There is also no long-term commitment, so you can cancel the membership at any time.

Membership cost: Inspirato Club membership is $600/month plus a $600 enrollment fee and you pay nightly rates as you go. Inspirato Pass is a flat rate of $2,500/month which includes all hotel stays.

Scott’s Cheap Flights

A membership to Scott’s Cheap Flights includes flight deals and “Mistake Fares” accidentally published by airlines sent straight to your inbox. The team scours the internet for the lowest published airfare rates to popular destinations and shares them with members.

Subscribers can also track deals from a specific airport close to home or destinations of interest. A membership to Scott’s Cheap Flights is best for travelers who have flexibility on the destination and dates and are willing to fly based on low airfare rates. Flight deals don’t last long so you’ll have to act fast.

Membership cost: There are three membership tiers including Limited which is free, Premium costs $49/year and Elite $199/year.

PRIOR was started by a former travel editor who saw a gap in the market for travelers wanting a more immersive experience during their vacation. A team of experienced travel editors and local tastemakers on the ground design itineraries for curious travelers.

A PRIOR WORLD membership includes access to curated destination guides, unique local experiences in cities around the world, pre-planned group trips led by experts and for an additional fee, the team can create a custom itinerary based on your interests.

If you're a frequent traveler, PRIOR BESPOKE might be the membership better suited for you. For a flat fee per year, members get unlimited trip planning by their expert team of travel editors and membership managers.

Membership cost: PRIOR WORLD membership costs $249 per annum. PRIOR BESPOKE is $5,000 per annum.

Priority Pass

Airport terminals may have come a long way in the last decade, but killing time for a three-hour layover in a crowded airport isn’t exactly on anyone’s list of things to do, especially on vacation. Trade the busy terminals for private lounge access with Priority Pass and enjoy guaranteed Wi-Fi and snacks.

Members of Priority Pass receive access to over 1,300 airport lounges globally, including several airline lounges such as Virgin Atlantic, Air France and Turkish Airlines. Several credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Platinum and Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express offer free Priority Pass memberships as part of their member benefits.

Membership cost: Choose from three membership tiers which start at $99/year for the Standard membership plus $32 per visit and go up to $429/year for the Prestige membership which includes unlimited lounge visits.

TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry are services that allow travelers to expedite the security screening process upon departure and arrival. With CLEAR Plus, enrolled members get escorted to the front of the security line once they’ve been verified using facial recognition or fingerprint scans, so they no longer have to verify identification at security. However, for expedited clearance through security screenings, TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry are still required.

CLEAR uses biometric identifiers to create a unique ID assigned to each member that is used for verification at stations across airports, stadiums and other major venues nationwide.

Membership cost: A CLEAR Plus membership is $179 per year. American Express Platinum Card Members receive a $179 statement credit and United MileagePlus members receive a discounted membership rate.

Well Traveled

Well Traveled is a members-only social and booking platform that allows members to connect with friends to find and share travel recommendations. The community-driven platform is intended to make travel planning easier by allowing you to follow people in your network that you trust, in addition to other like-minded travelers who share similar budgets and travel preferences.

Members can also take advantage of the personalized booking service that includes perks like exclusive rates, room upgrades, food & beverage credits, complimentary breakfast and more. Currently, membership is invite-only but you can also apply to be considered.

Membership cost: $150 per year.

Travel + Leisure Club

Travel + Leisure Club is a new travel subscription service offered by Travel + Leisure Group. Members can pay a monthly fee for access to preferred pricing on curated itineraries and an average of 25% savings on hotels, resorts, car rentals and activities that are listed on Travel + Leisure GO, the online travel booking site. Plus, members get a subscription to the glossy print magazine.

Members also get access to a personal concierge that can assist with travel planning, scoring tickets to sold-out events, making dinner reservations and more.

Membership cost: Travel + Leisure Club is currently offering an introductory rate of $9.95/month.

Exclusive Resorts

Designed for families who value privacy, Exclusive Resorts is a small community of members (only 150 new members accepted each year) that get access to over 350 luxury residences around the world including the Amalfi Coast, Barcelona, Deer Valley, Kaua’i, Los Cabos, St. Barts and more.

Guests enjoy a more personalized experience with a dedicated on-site team who can assist with pre-trip planning details such as stocking the fridge with your favorite snacks, booking a massage or private chef, and housekeeping services.

Membership cost: There is a one-time, non-refundable initiation fee of $150,000 for a 10-year membership. Annual dues are $1,395/night and members travel 15-30 nights per year.

About Leila Najafi

Leila Najafi is a luxury travel writer based in LA who is a member of more subscription services than she'd like to admit.

Read more about Leila Najafi here.

Connect with Leila via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok

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This Is the Best Time to Renew Global Entry — and How to Do It

Don't let your Global Entry membership lapse.

What is Global Entry?

What are the global entry benefits, who is eligible for global entry, where can i use global entry, how long does it take to get approved for global entry, what are the steps for renewing global entry, when should you renew global entry, how long does it take to get approved for global entry renewal, can you add sentri to global entry.

If you're a frequent international flier, you're probably already aware of Global Entry , a special program that provides expedited entry into the U.S. for eligible low-risk travelers. But if it's your first time using Global Entry, you might not know you need to renew your membership every five years. The renewal process is typically straightforward, but mistiming your application could leave you without Global Entry for months — or even longer. Here's everything you need to know about Global Entry renewal.

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), part of the Department of Homeland Security. Once you become a Global Entry member, you can use expedited lanes at border crossings, which typically have kiosks that handle entry. It costs $100 (but many credit cards pay for it as one of their perks), plus it includes a TSA PreCheck membership.

Courtesy of Capital One

The main benefit of Global Entry is expedited entry into the U.S. via dedicated lanes at border crossings, primarily at U.S. airports. A secondary benefit is that your Global Entry ID card counts as a Real ID.

Michael Paulsen/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are eligible for Global Entry, as well as citizens of the following countries:

• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• South Korea
• Switzerland

Global Entry kiosks can typically be found at most major international airports, as well as select seaports. You can also use Global Entry in SENTRI and NEXUS lanes for entering the U.S. from Mexico and Canada, respectively — but for SENTRI, you must first have your car inspected by CBP, which costs $42.

At the time of publication, Global Entry processing times range from four to six months, and that does not include the time it takes to secure an interview appointment . Appointments are limited, so it may take weeks or even months to get one.

"If you're struggling to get through that final interview stage due to the lack of appointments, check out the Enrollment on Arrival program. It's a great workaround if you're coming back to the U.S. from abroad and allows you to interview with an agent while going through immigration at most major U.S. airports," Kristin Winkaffe, founder of Winkaffe Global Travel , tells Travel + Leisure . "You won't skip the lines on that entry, but you'll get your interview done and be set for next time."

Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

• Log into your Trusted Traveler Program account at ttp.dhs.gov . 
• Select "renew" under the Global Entry program on your dashboard.
• Answer the questions, fill out your payment info, and submit your application.
• If you're applying before your expiration date, your Global Entry membership will be valid for 24 months from the time of submission, even if your expiration date is before the end of that period.
• If you're applying after your expiration date, you will not receive Global Entry benefits as you await approval.
• After you receive conditional approval, you may need to schedule an interview with CBP. Sometimes, you'll need to do an in-person interview, while select applicants may be able to do this virtually.
• Following your interview, you will be fully approved, and your new Global Entry card will be mailed to your address. Be sure to activate your new Global Entry membership online once you're approved.

You become eligible to renew Global Entry one year from your membership's date of expiration, and that's exactly when you should begin the reapproval process, which can take months. If you submit your renewal application before your membership expires, you can continue to use Global Entry for 24 months from that date, even if the expiration falls during that period. This helps mitigate the lengthy approval process.

"The best advice I can give is to get the ball rolling one year before it expires," says Winkaffe. "It's better to be safe than sorry, especially with how unpredictable processing times can be. This way, you won't have a gap in your traveler status."

If you wait too long, your Global Entry membership may lapse, and you'll find yourself relegated to the regular immigration line — and the regular security line without TSA PreCheck. "I found myself on a couple of trips without TSA PreCheck or Global Entry — quite the downer after enjoying these perks for years," says Winkaffe. "It's a real game-changer to breeze through security and customs, and once you've had a taste of it, you really feel the difference when it's missing."

The processing times for conditional approval vary greatly, from as little as 24 hours to a full year — or perhaps even longer.

For example, my own renewal process spanned about five weeks, including the time it took to schedule and complete an interview (I was able to do mine virtually.) However, my husband's renewal was fully approved within one day, and he didn't have to interview at all.

Then, there's the case of travel expert and editor Laura Ratliff, former senior editorial director at TripSavvy , who has been in Global Entry renewal purgatory for more than 11 months. "I applied for my Global Entry renewal on Dec. 10, 2022, which was the day it expired," she says. Since then, her application has been stagnant. "I've contacted the CBP a few times to check on the status, but I've been told I need to wait longer each time. When I hit around 10 months, I was told not to call until it had been a year," Ratliff adds. In the meantime, she has reached out to her local congresswoman to investigate what's happening with her application.

If you end up without Global Entry, you still have options for expedited entry into the U.S.: Mobile Passport Control. This allows you to fill out your customs declaration via an app, then use a dedicated lane at the border. In some cases, the Mobile Passport line might even be faster than Global Entry.

You can use SENTRI lanes when entering the U.S. from Mexico with Global Entry, but you must first have your vehicle inspected by and registered with CBP. Make an appointment online at ttp.dhs.gov — the fee is $42.

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Guide to Global Entry Interviews — Including How to Schedule and What to Bring

Here’s everything you need to know about the Global Entry interview process.

If you travel internationally (even just once or twice a year), chances are you’ve heard of the  Global Entry program. This Trusted Traveler Program allows approved travelers to speed through customs after an international trip, and the time and energy saved by avoiding those long lines can be well worth the cost of the application.

To be accepted into the Global Entry program, you need to fill out an application, pay a fee, and complete an in-person interview. The Global Entry interview may sound intimidating, but it’s actually a quick and easy process. Here’s everything you need to know about the Global Entry application process, including how to schedule and complete the interview and some tips for making the entire process quick and easy.

Related: How Many Passports Can You Have? 

What is Global Entry? 

Global Entry is one of five Trusted Traveler Programs available in the U.S. Administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, it offers pre-approved travelers an expedited screening process upon arrival in the United States after an international trip. 

Global Entry is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and select foreign nationals, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security . Children must have their own Global Entry membership to use the expedited lanes. 

Frequent travelers and travel professionals agree that Global Entry is worth the hassle of applying and going through the interview process. “If you travel out of the country more than once a year, you need this,” says Faith Ann Liuzzo-Bartholomew, a travel advisor with FAB Travel Group who is a member of the American Society of Travel Advisors. “I have seen so many people miss their connections because of the lines at customs,” she says.

It’s a good idea to apply for Global Entry long before you want to use it. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the total application processing time can be as long as four to six months.

Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck

Global Entry is not the same as TSA PreCheck . Global Entry offers expedited processing when returning to the U.S. after an international trip, while TSA PreCheck is a program that offers expedited screening at TSA airport security checkpoints. 

You can be a member of both programs; in fact, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck , so if you’re a frequent traveler, it makes sense to apply for Global Entry in lieu of TSA PreCheck.

Cost of Global Entry

Global Entry costs $100 for a five-year membership. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. 

The good news is that it’s easy to get that fee reimbursed with the right credit card. Many of today’s top travel rewards credit cards come with a Global Entry fee credit that will cover the entire $100 cost. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , Chase Sapphire Reserve , and The Platinum Card from American Express are just a few of the 30+ cards that offer this benefit. 

The credits on these cards are available once every 4 years, so you’ll be eligible for a new credit each time you need to renew your membership. If you have more than one credit card that has a Global Entry fee credit, you can use the additional credits to pay for the application fees for friends or family members.

Scheduling a Global Entry Interview 

Before scheduling your Global Entry interview, you’ll need to create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account. After filling out the application and paying the $100 fee, your account will be reviewed, and a background check will be completed. Once you have conditional approval, you’ll be instructed to schedule your in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center .

Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. Not only do interviews book months in advance, but many states only have one or two Global Entry Enrollment Centers, while some states have none.

If your interview is scheduled later than you’d like, keep checking the schedule for any openings that may pop up sooner.

Global Entry Interview Process 

Once the day of your Global Entry interview finally arrives, plan to be at your appointment 15 to 30 minutes early so you don’t risk being late and losing your time slot. When you arrive for your interview, be sure to have these required documents:

• A valid passport (if you have more than one, bring them all to the interview)
• Proof of residency, including your driver’s license showing your current address, mortgage statement, rental payment statement, utility bill, etc. (not required for minors)
• Permanent resident card, if applicable

The interview itself is fast. Usually, the Customs and Border Patrol officer will verify your documents and ask a few questions about your application and/or travel plans. Then, your fingerprints and photo will be taken. 

While a Global Entry interview may sound intimidating, it’s a simple and straightforward process that often takes just 15 minutes or less. 

“I was surprised at how brief and straightforward my interview was,” says Lillie West, President and CEO of Lillie West and Associates, LLC, a member of the American Society of Travel Advisors.  “The U.S. Customs officer validated the information on my application, checked my identification, and asked if I had any questions. The entire process took about 10 minutes.”

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and can start using the benefits immediately. You’ll also receive a Global Entry card in the mail after your interview which can be used when entering the U.S. through SENTRI or NEXUS lanes at land crossings.

Enrollment on Arrival

Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) allows conditionally approved applicants to complete the Global Entry interview at select airports upon arrival from an international flight. This can be done instead of scheduling a separate interview.

When arriving at an airport that offers Enrollment on Arrival, look for Global Entry signs directing you to where a Customs and Border Patrol officer can complete your interview. You’ll need the following items for Enrollment on Arrival:

There are currently Enrollment on Arrival services at 65 airports around the world. No appointment is necessary for an EoA interview, but keep in mind there will be times when it isn’t available, so it’s a good idea to schedule an interview as a backup.

If you have a scheduled interview but are able to utilize EoA, your original interview will be automatically canceled once your full Global Entry membership is approved.

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Opportunity to sign up for your Global Entry Interview at GBTA Convention

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will be at the Global Business Travel Association Convention in Atlanta in July 2024, to conduct in-person enrollment interviews for CBP’s Global Entry program. Global Entry allows expedited clearance for preapproved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Participants may enter the U.S. using automated kiosks or touchless portals located at 77 U.S. airports, and 14 preclearance sites.

Global Entry approval also allows U.S. travelers to be eligible to participate in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Pre✓®program, which expedites screening through TSA checkpoints at participating airports.

How to Apply

To participate in the interview process at the GBTA Convention, you must follow these steps:

• Visit the Trusted Traveler Programs  website  and review the available programs.
• Step 1: Create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account.
• Here, you must first create an account and then log in to submit an application. When applying, be sure to only select the Global Entry option. A $100 nonrefundable application fee must be paid online at the time you apply.
• Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive a message in your account notifying you of the results.
• If you are “conditionally approved” for Global Entry and are invited to schedule an interview, you will need to do the following:
• From the Schedule Appointment page, scroll to the bottom of the page and select “Do you have an access code?”.
• Enter the “Access Code” TL8863335 to schedule an interview appointment for the GBTA private event.
• Enrollment location Atlanta – GBTA 2024 will display, and you can select the date and time for your interview.

Interviews will be conducted at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta in room B408.

Event Name:   Atlanta – GBTA 2024

Schedule:  

Monday, July 22  (Appointment availability is 08:00 – 16:00 hours) 

Tuesday, July 23  (Appointment availability is 08:00 – 16:00 hours) 

Wednesday, July 24  (Appointment availability is 08:00 – 16:00 hours)

Special instructions for applicants:  This is a temporary enrollment event sponsored by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA). Those seeking to attend GBTA must separately register for the convention. Please bring a copy of your appointment verification, all valid travel documents (e.g. passport, visas, green card, etc.), and proof of residency (driver’s license / utility bill). Please visit the GBTA website at  https://convention.gbta.org  for more information.

About Global Entry

Global Entry is available for citizens, and lawful permanent residents of the U.S., as well as citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Germany, South Korea, the Netherlands, Mexico, Panama, Singapore, India, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Canadian citizens and residents can receive Global Entry benefits through membership in the NEXUS program. To find out if additional requirements must be met, please visit  http://www.globalentry.gov/ , select the “International Arrangement” link on the left and then the country of citizenship.

Questions? See CBP’s  Frequently Asked Questions  on the Global Entry website or  Frequently Asked Questions  about the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP). If you are unable to find the information you need, the CBP INFO Center is open Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. EDT. Inquire via  email   or by calling  1.877.CBP.5511 . If you are outside the U.S., call  202.325.8000 .

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Benefits of Global Entry

Benefits for global entry members.

Your time is valuable. As a pre-screened Global Entry member, you arrive in the United States, check-in at the Global Entry kiosk and you're on your way. So what are you waiting for?  

Why You Should Join

• No processing lines
• No paperwork
• Access to expedited entry benefits in other countries
• Available at major U.S. airports
• Reduced wait times
• TSA Pre✓® Eligibility

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These are the travel memberships and subscriptions that are worth the money – CLEAR, Global Entry, and more

Not all travel programs are created equal.

From Netflix and smartphone apps to food delivery services , everyone is vying for your subscription dollars these days. Most aren’t worth the expense, in our opinion. There are a few, however, that make legitimate sense — and cents — for travelers. If you’re planning to travel in the upcoming year, here are the best travel memberships and subscription services that are worth the money in 2024.

TSA PreCheck

Global entry, expertflyer, priority pass standard plus.

• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)

Garmin Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance

America the beautiful pass, air travel tips.

Let’s start with the most obvious travel membership: TSA PreCheck. Even for U.S.-based travelers who only fly a handful of times per year, the recurring cost is worth the time and money. A five-year membership costs $78 (less than $16 annually). It’s guaranteed to save you hours at the airport because PreCheck passengers needn’t remove their shoes, belts, or light jackets, and can leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on luggage.

Add to that the privilege of passing through a separate, often much shorter, security line, and it can pay for itself on your very first trip. The TSA reports that, in 2020, 100% of PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes in line. New applicants can start the process online, and some credit cards and loyalty programs even include the fee as a perk for cardholders.

If your travel takes you out of the country — frequently or not — Global Entry is even better than a TSA PreCheck travel membership. This flagship federal program includes the same benefits of PreCheck, plus expedited screening at international borders and customs checkpoints. A five-year subscription is $100 — just $15 more than TSA PreCheck.

The approval process is a bit more time-consuming, as it requires a passport and an in-person interview. But that time will likely pay for itself on your first trip or two abroad . Plus, like PreCheck, some popular travel credit card programs pay the annual program fee for their cardholders.

Booking air travel is complicated these days. Travelers who want the utmost comfort and convenience are expected to wade through mountains of airfares, seat charts, connecting flight schedules, airline policy disclosures, and more. ExpertFlyer is a monthly travel membership that takes the guesswork out of all of it.

The site keeps tabs on basic things like flight availability, flight status, and other details. But, most importantly, it can also provide useful alerts for things that make your trips more comfortable. That includes letting you know when your preferred seats become available, what frequent flyer awards and upgrades are available, and aircraft change alerts (so you can avoid unexpected seat reassignments). The free version is enough for most infrequent travelers, while the Pro version opens up every feature for one low monthly price.

CLEAR works similarly to TSA PreCheck. But, while the latter focuses on expediting the entire screening process (from document checking to baggage screening), CLEAR is designed to speed up the first part. TSA PreCheck is great, but it still requires most passengers to wait in a line — albeit usually a shorter one — to verify their personal ID.

With CLEAR, members use a dedicated line (often with no other passengers) to scan their fingerprint or iris at a kiosk and are then personally escorted immediately to baggage screening. The service is available in almost 50 U.S. cities, and more are added regularly. It’s pricey at around $189 annually, but for frequent air travelers, every second counts. Plus, it also works at stadiums and other event venues around the country.

Digital boarding passes, itineraries, and hotel reservations have mostly made travel easier (not to mention better for the environment). However, trying to keep all those emails, confirmation numbers, and departure times straight while en route can be a hassle. TripIt streamlines everything about travel.

Subscribers provide TripIt with their email account information. Then the app automatically scans their inbox for travel-related emails. It organizes and files them all in a single, easy-to-read mobile itinerary within the TripIt app. It might sound like a lofty promise, but the app delivers. It also tracks important updates to upcoming flights and is often better and faster at sending alerts to changes than the official airline apps. There’s a free option, but the features are limited, which is why we recommend spending the extra $49 for the TripIt Pro version. You can also go Pro free for five days to see if it’s right for you.

Most air travelers who only fly a handful of times each year don’t bother with airline lounges. Unless you’re staring down a very long layover , dropping $50 for a day pass to score cold finger foods and “free” domestic beer hardly seems worth it. Priority Pass is an annual travel membership program that makes the cost of lounge admission a little more palatable.

For as little as $329, the upgraded Priority Pass Standard Plus membership provides ten lounge visits in a calendar year. Depending on the airline, that’s roughly 50% off the fees you’d expect to pay to check in to most lounges. It’s valid at more than 1,300 airport lounges around the world. Again, some of the best travel credit cards and loyalty programs also provide free Priority Pass membership as a perk.

Going ( formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights )

Countless newsletters and subscription services promise to help travelers save big on their next vacation. In our experience, none delivers like Going (formerly called Scott’s Cheap Flights). Simply sign up, pick your preferred departure airport, and wait for the best flight deals to roll into your inbox.

In some cases, we’ve seen so-called “mistake fares” and rare deals of up to 90% off — legitimately.  The basic Limited membership is free, but we recommend splurging for the $49-per-year Premium subscription for earlier access to the best deals. It’ll more than pay for itself on your very first trip.

Travel safety and insurance are hardly sexy topics; compared to breezing through airport security and free booze during your next layover. Still, for adventurous travelers, insurance is essential. In many countries, anyone needing search and rescue is required to pay for the service themselves, sometimes in advance. Depending on the location, these services could be in the tens — or even hundreds — of thousands of dollars.

A travel membership to Garmin’s Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance plans, also referred to as IERRC (International Response Coordination Center), will reimburse you in the event of a life-threatening rescue scenario. The entry-level membership is just $39.95 annually, which covers expenses of up to $100,000 per year. Hardcore travelers might want to consider add-ons like medical evacuation insurance, all of which are incredibly affordable, especially compared to the alternative.

Since the pandemic, more of us are camping and taking road trips now than ever before. That has meant that Americans are exploring our National Parks in record numbers. If you count yourself among them or are planning to in 2024, consider an annual park pass. The National Park Service’s America the Beautiful Pass is just $80 a year.

That covers entrance fees, standard amenity fees, and day-use fees at more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Considering that entrance to some of the country’s most popular parks can cost $25 or more, the pass will more than pay for itself if you plan to visit even a handful of sites in a single year.

Yup, a travel membership to AAA is still worth the money in 2024. The entry-level Basic plan costs about $5 per month and provides access to essential road trip emergency services like fuel delivery, flat tire repair, battery jumpstarting, and limited towing, to name a few. These alone are worth the price of admission. But travelers also score deals on everything from hotel stays and rental cars to flights and upgrades.

For a few extra dollars monthly (to its upgraded Plus membership), AAA throws in extras like a free set of passport photos, enhanced vehicle lockout services, and even better towing and recovery in case your road trip goes seriously sideways. Plus, if you book travel through one of its agents, you’ll have access to AAA’s deep suite of traveler assistance services.

Since many of these travel memberships are for air travel, we’ll give you some air travel tips to make life easier, as air travel can be stressful.

Before your flight

• Plan ahead: Book your flight in advance for better deals and seat selection. Check visa requirements for your destination.
• Pack smart: Pack light and efficient: You may be able to avoid baggage fees with some of the above memberships, but it’s helpful to pack efficiently. Use packing cubes, roll clothes instead of folding, and double-check for liquids and toiletries restrictions. Pack essentials like medications, a change of clothes, and entertainment in your carry-on.
• Stay informed: Download your airline’s app for flight updates, boarding pass access, and digital baggage tags. Check the weather forecast at your destination and pack accordingly.

At the airport

• Stay connected: Charge your phone and laptop beforehand. Consider purchasing airport Wi-Fi access or invest in a portable hotspot.
• Stay hydrated and comfortable: Pack a water bottle and snacks, as airport food can be expensive. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for sitting for extended periods and walking through large airports.

Editors’ Recommendations

• The free Global Entry alternative that’s almost as good (but no one knows about)
• Olympian Tom Daley shares his top European travel spots for sports enthusiasts
• Travel tips: Why you need to set a flight alert even after you book a flight
• How do AirTags work? What to know about the No. 1 travel accessory
• 4 reasons why Seattle is Kayak’s No. 1 summer travel destination
• Advice and how-tos
• Advice and insights

Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Cheyenne Knowles via Unsplash

When I’m in a beautiful setting — like The Chin of Mount Mansfield —  I’ll get out my iPhone and begin snapping photos. Some places are too striking to ignore, and I’ll want to capture the moment to share on social media or reflect on later. Over time, it’s fun to build up a library and look back on those places.

Global Entry is an expedited screening program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to breeze through immigration and customs checkpoints when entering the United States. The program saves time and hassle by letting members use automated kiosks rather than standing in regular passport control lines.

If you're already enrolled in Global Entry, you know what a convenience it is -- but a Global Entry membership is only valid for five years before it needs to be renewed. Here's how to renew your membership and ensure uninterrupted access to those coveted kiosks. When to renew Global Entry

When the day of a trip arrives, there’s a feeling of freedom and excitement. Whether you’re going for some spring skiing in Lake Tahoe, or visiting Italy’s Amalfi Coast, it’s a time to relax and unwind and experience new things. But airport hangups can throw a wrench in your plans.

Flight delays and cancellations, lost baggage, and hidden fees make your getaway a hassle, producing long waits and questionable charges. But all that’s set to change with the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) new rules for airlines. For travelers, they’re a game changer. Here are the details. New DOT regulations save travelers money 

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6 Items That Have Made Me a More Efficient Traveler

Brett Holzhauer

Content Contributor

37 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 22 U.S. States Visited: 29

Editor & Content Contributor

88 Published Articles 72 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 54 U.S. States Visited: 36

Jestan Mendame

Compliance Associate

6 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 12 U.S. States Visited: 3

Table of Contents

1. backpack rather than luggage, 2. global entry membership, 3. travel credit cards for protection and benefits, 4. portable travel pillow, 5. metal water bottle, 6. power bank to never lose charge, bonus: have the right mindset, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Travel can be a headache and even downright stressful. While talking with friends, family, and colleagues, I’ve found that it often comes down to a few common themes. That includes the overall cost, the effort of getting from point A to point B, hauling your items around, and unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

All of these points are valid. Travel can be expensive, require more effort than you may have thought, and come with many challenges. But with the right tools and accessories, your wanderlust can flourish with fewer headaches.

Since 2016, I’ve been on a travel binge: I’ve been to 25 countries, 5 continents, taken hundreds of flights, and even lived out of my backpack for a short stint in 2019 as a digital nomad.

I’ve experimented with many different travel essentials, and these are the ones I can’t travel without. Here are 6 strategies that I have used to make my travels a breeze.

We’re often told that having more choices is a good thing. However, it’s often not necessary to bring the whole closet (and kitchen sink) on your travels.

For context, I have 1 backpack for shorter trips and an Osprey 55L backpack for longer adventures. Rather than diving into the theory behind it, there’s something about having a backpack that I’ve found freeing on my travels.

Your Hands Are Free To Do Other Things

Having your hands free to move is essential when you’re on the go. Whether it’s using your cell phone, holding a coffee, or getting out your wallet, using 1 hand to pull your luggage around is a drag (pun intended).

Avoids Checked Bag Fees and Lost Items

The debate of being “team checked bag” or “team carry-on” will always be hotly contested. For myself, I only carry on for several reasons, but the main one is to avoid checked bag fees .

Airlines make a huge profit on checked-bag fees, and I find it to be easily avoidable. Now, many travel credit cards offer checked bags for free (along with having airline status). Occasionally, I will use this benefit if it makes sense. However, I’d much rather have my bag with me to avoid wait times and any potential damage or loss of my bag.

Makes You More Intentional

Yes, a backpack has less space than traditional luggage — and that’s the point. You likely don’t need that extra space.

With a backpack, it has forced me to become very intentional about every item I take. And yes, I’m still guilty of occasionally bringing a few things I may not use. But the punishment of having to carry the weight of each item you pack makes you much more aware.

When I traveled for 112 days straight in 2019, I brought way too many items. I got rid of many things because lugging my belongings from country to country became too burdensome.

Navigating the airport can be stress-inducing. Yelling officials and long lines could make even the strongest traveler emotionally crumble.

One of the best solutions I’ve found is having a Global Entry membership that comes with TSA PreCheck . By having this, I’m able to go through expedited security lines, which has cumulatively saved me hours of waiting in lines throughout the U.S. And when coming back from international travel, Global Entry security clearance makes returning seamless.

I recently used my IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card to renew my Global Entry membership as the card comes with an enrollment credit. And since I sign up for travel credit cards regularly, I give away my extra airport security clearance credits to friends and family.

Travel credit cards aren’t just for earning rewards to redeem for trips. They can also help you score some money-saving perks along the way, and even protect you if your travels go awry.

Many premium credit cards offer lounge access where you can grab snacks and drinks throughout your travels. My primary spending card is the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , which comes with access to Capital One Lounges and the Priority Pass lounge network . I use these spaces to save on food and drink costs, rather than paying elevated airport prices.

As for credit card travel insurance , several of my cards protect me in case something goes awry. Recently, I was in Denver, and a sudden hail storm severely damaged my rental car. Thankfully, I used my Ink Business Preferred ® Credit Card , which covered the damage thanks to primary rental car insurance.

There are plenty of opportunities while traveling to close your eyes for a quick snooze. But carrying a regular pillow around is not convenient or portable. During my travels, I came across the TRTL travel pillow , and I’ve found it to be the best, most portable solution out there.

A long flight in economy can be draining. The lack of moisture in the cabin, as well as sitting in one place for an extended period, is often dehydrating and exhausting.

Instead of spending a small fortune on a bottle of water at the airport, or settling for the small cup of water from flight attendants, invest in a metal water bottle. You don’t have to spend a fortune; I found this two-pack at Costco for less than $20.

Flight attendants are typically okay with filling your water bottle, and there are plenty of refill stations at U.S. airports.

Our phones are the best resource when traveling, which means you can drain your battery quickly. An external power bank can be a lifesaver for you and even your group. I recently upgraded to the MyCharge PowerHub Max 15,000mAh All in One from Costco, and it’s been a fantastic addition. This will give about 3 to 4 full charges to a smartphone.

Approaching travel with a positive mindset is vital to being successful. The more you travel, the more likely something will go awry. Whether it is transportation issues, weather delays, unavoidable long security lines, leaving something behind, or a crying child sitting behind you, it’s vital to know what to do through it all.

As for my own experiences, I’ve been injured, slept in questionable hotels, lost important paperwork for a visa, and had weather drastically impact trip schedules. After a while, I learned to appreciate the silly moments once the headache subsided.

My advice for making travel easier: solve the easy problems, and laugh through the unpredictable ones. Don’t let the bumps and bruises take away from the adventures of seeing new places, exploring new cultures, and embracing everything that travel offers.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

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About Brett Holzhauer

Brett is a personal finance and travel junkie. Based out of Fort Lauderdale, he’s had over 100 credit cards and earned millions of credit card rewards. He learned the tricks of the trade from his mom, and has taken many steps forward. He wasn’t exposed to much travel as a kid, but now has a goal of reaching 100 countries in his life. In 2019, he sold all of his possessions to become a digital nomad, and he says it was one of the best decisions he ever made. He plans to do it again at some point in his life.

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Not enough travelers are using this Global Entry alternative, the federal government says

Are you waiting for a Global Entry interview — or simply don't want to pay the $100 application fee? There's another option that can help you save nearly as much time at customs. Plus, it's completely free.

"It's not Global Entry. But it's pretty close, " said Marc Calixte, U.S. Customs and Border Protection port director of Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington, D.C.

We're talking about Mobile Passport Control, a CBP app that lets you handle most of the international arrivals process right on your smartphone. After submitting some personal information online and snapping a selfie, you can skip the long line at passport control and head to a separate — usually far shorter — lane.

This time-saving option is available to a slew of travelers, from those not yet approved for Global Entry to those who don't travel frequently enough to warrant the program's cost.

Related: Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which is more beneficial?

In some cases, travelers who might not be eligible for Global Entry at all may be able to use this shortcut.

For all of this program's benefits, though, it remains something of a well-kept secret in the eyes of the federal government.

"It's been out for a while," Calixte said during a recent conversation with TPG. "But what we lack is adoption."

Who's eligible for Mobile Passport Control?

MPC, as it's known, is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and Canadian B1/B2 travelers. It's also an option for travelers from 41 " visa waiver " countries who have been to the U.S. before, from Australia to Belgium, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.

You can find Mobile Passport Contol in both Google Play and the Apple App Store, where it's available for free. It's available for use at dozens of airports nationwide, plus numerous international Preclearance facilities, where travelers have to clear customs abroad — from Toronto to Dublin and Abu Dhabi.

How to use Mobile Passport Control

Upon landing, pull up the app and follow its prompts. You'll enter your flight's port of entry (aka your arrival airport).

The system will then ask you to scan your passport and enter some personal information.

Finally, you'll take a selfie.

Traveling with a family? Do the same thing for every member of the family — you can even use the same smartphone. Thanks to a new upgrade, the app now allows travelers to add up to a dozen travelers in the same household to one mobile application.

Then, once you're off the plane, follow the signs in the customs hall for the Mobile Passport Control line, like this one I saw at Dulles.

Once you reach an officer, one member of the traveling party will have their photo taken. That will pull up the information for all members of the party. You should be out in a matter of seconds.

It's worth noting that photos taken on your phone will live in the app on your phone — not on CBP servers. The photo taken at the passport control booth will also be deleted within a few days, the agency says, often within 48 hours.

CBP hopes to expand MPC usage

Though MPC may sound novel, it's actually been around for about a decade. Over 4 million travelers used the app in the 2023 fiscal year, CBP tells TPG. In 2024, the agency has already processed 4.6 million arriving passengers through the program.

Yet, CBP believes it has the capacity to handle far more passengers. Oftentimes, Calixte notes, peak periods will bring long lines to the standard passport control lanes, while just a handful of travelers visit the MPC "shortcut" lanes.

"I observe it daily," Calixte mused. "It's fascinating to watch people in the middle of the afternoon waiting ... when there's a free application that they could use that would definitely lessen the time."

CBP is working with airlines to promote MPC a bit more broadly. It also hopes to potentially open up new ways for travelers to download the app while in flight.

Is MPC better than Global Entry?

To be clear, Global Entry remains the ultimate time-saving tool at customs, providing travelers with a seamless trip through its touchless kiosks.

"Global Entry's always faster," Calixte noted.

For the five-year membership, which also includes TSA PreCheck access, you'll pay $100 (or $120 as of October ).

And though changes to Global Entry this fall will allow children of applicants or current members to apply for free, families may still be among the best-suited candidates for MPC — particularly those who don't travel abroad often, CBP branch chief and spokesperson Corey Daboin told TPG this month.

"We're trying to target these family groups that go on vacation once a year," Daboin said. "Also, I think younger — maybe college — kids ... they're doing that random trip here or there, they can just do the MPC ... when they get to the airport, download it, get it done, and submit it."

Bottom line

Mobile Passport Control is an easy, wallet-friendly way to save time at customs, particularly if you don't travel internationally enough to warrant a Global Entry application.

Amid record-breaking crowds already hitting airports this summer — and CBP expecting international traffic to stay robust throughout the summer — the program is an appealing alternative, whether you're headed overseas in the coming months ... or days.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Rethinking Single Use Plastic Products (SUPPs) in Travel & Tourism

COVID-19 has led to a proliferation of single-use plastic products (SUPPs), adding urgency to the global challenge of single-use plastic pollution, which has significant environmental impacts and negatively affects the attractiveness of destinations. Yet, the pandemic has also provided a unique opportunity to reflect on the changes required to build back a greener and more sustainable future. While the Travel & Tourism sector is increasingly implementing SUPP elimination strategies with the aim of moving towards more circular approaches, individual efforts are not enough. In order to ensure a transition towards reducing and reuse models, in line with circularity principles, it is vital for the public and private sectors to collaborate across the value chain, while implementing the right waste infrastructure at the destination level.

As part of WTTC’s partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) , and in order to tackle this issue, we have put together a joint report to support the sector to reduce or eliminate SUPPs where possible and move towards a more sustainable future.

Hear from industry leaders on why the report is important, as well as, an interview with one of the writers Jo Hendrickx, Co-founder of Travel Without Plastics .

Watch our videos

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5 tips for reducing single-use plastic on your next trip

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