Frequent travelers know that time and comfort are priceless. From TSA PreCheck and Global Entry to premium credit cards, lounge access, and smart luggage, these travel upgrades help you skip the stress, save time, and make every trip smoother, easier, and more enjoyable.
Frequent travelers know that the more you fly, the more important it is to streamline your experience. Long lines, crowded airports, and delays can turn a fun trip into a stressful ordeal from the start. But there are practical travel upgrades, from TSA PreCheck and Global Entry to travel credit cards and premium luggage, that make traveling faster, easier, and far more enjoyable. Consider investing in these smart travel perks and reclaim your time, energy, and peace of mind on every trip.
1. TSA PreCheck: Skip the Stress of Long Security Lines
If you don’t already have it, this should be your first move. TSA PreCheck allows you to go through expedited security lanes at U.S. airports, which can mean the difference between gliding through security in 5 minutes or standing in line for 45.
With PreCheck, shoes, belts, and light jackets stay on. Laptops and liquids stay in your bag. And most importantly, the lines are almost always shorter than standard security.
👉 Cost: $78 for a five-year membership (about $16 per year).
👉 Bonus: Kids under 12 are included with your PreCheck status, making family travel infinitely easier.
2. Global Entry: Fast-Track Reentry After International Flights
Global Entry is like TSA PreCheck’s big brother. It includes all the benefits of PreCheck plus expedited reentry into the U.S. from international destinations. Instead of waiting in long customs lines after a long-haul flight, you head to a kiosk, scan your passport, and you’re out in minutes.
👉 Cost: $100 for five years (just $20 per year).
👉 Why it’s worth it: If you ever travel abroad, even once every couple of years, Global Entry is the smarter choice over TSA PreCheck alone. Families especially love it because avoiding customs lines with tired kids is a game-changer.
3. CLEAR: The Fastest Path Through Security
CLEAR uses biometrics (your fingerprints or an eye scan) to verify your identity, allowing you to bypass the standard TSA ID check. On its own, it’s faster. Paired with TSA PreCheck, it’s the ultimate combo for frequent flyers.
This is especially helpful at major airports like Atlanta, New York, and Denver, where security lines can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons. CLEAR attendants personally escort you to the front of the line, saving you serious time.
👉 Cost: $189/year, though discounts are available through certain credit cards and airline loyalty programs.
👉 Who it’s best for: Travelers who frequent busy hubs or fly during holidays.
4. Airport Lounge Access: Turn Delays into Downtime
Lounges are one of the most underrated travel investments. Instead of fighting for a seat by the gate, you can relax in a quiet space with complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and often showers or nap pods. When you’re traveling multiple times a year, this upgrade pays for itself in sanity.
How to get access:
- Premium travel credit cards (Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Reserve).
- Priority Pass membership (1,300+ lounges worldwide).
- Airline-specific memberships if you’re loyal to one carrier.
👉 Pro tip: Even if you only use lounges 3–4 times a year, the peace of mind during delays and long layovers is worth it.
5. Travel Credit Cards with Perks
If you’re traveling more often, it’s time to let your credit card work harder for you. The right card doesn’t just rack up points, it gives you access to perks that enhance your entire journey.
Look for cards that include:
- Airline fee credits for baggage or seat upgrades
- TSA PreCheck/Global Entry/CLEAR credits
- Lounge access or Priority Pass memberships
- Bonus points on travel and dining
- Built-in travel protections (trip delay, cancellation, rental car insurance)
Yes, some cards come with high annual fees, but if you’re taking 2–3 vacations a year, the rewards and perks often outweigh the cost.
👉 Pro tip: We’ve listed the Top 10 Credit Cards with Travel Perks and Exclusive Airport Lounge Access.
6. Luggage That Works Hard
When you’re traveling multiple times a year, your luggage needs to be more than just a bag; it needs to be reliable, lightweight, and easy to maneuver.
Look for:
- Smooth spinner wheels (essential for long airport walks).
- Durable shells (hard-sided luggage protects against rough handling).
- Expandable compartments (because souvenirs happen).
Premium brands like Away, Briggs & Riley, and Tumi are designed to handle frequent trips and often come with excellent warranties. For a budget-friendly option, I recommend the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On, it’s sturdy and stylish without breaking the bank.
7. Annual Travel Insurance Plan
If you’re traveling multiple times a year, you may consider buying an annual travel insurance policy. An annual travel insurance plan covers you for an entire year: medical emergencies, cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and more.
👉 Why it’s worth it: It’s usually more cost-effective than multiple single-trip policies and saves you the hassle of re-purchasing coverage each time.
👉 Pro tip: Ask your Travel Advisor about the best annual policies, they’ll often know which companies provide the most reliable coverage.
Make Vacations Easier With These Travel Upgrades
Traveling multiple times a year should leave you feeling excited, not exhausted. By investing in these upgrades, whether it’s skipping long lines, enjoying a lounge during a delay, or packing with luggage that won’t fail you, you’re really buying back time, peace of mind, and a smoother overall experience.
And when travel is easier, you’re free to focus on what matters most: enjoying the journey.
Looking for more travel pro tips? Check out our Guide to Airport Lounges Across Texas.
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FAQs
1. Is Global Entry worth it if I only travel internationally once a year?
Yes, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and makes returning to the U.S. after an international flight much faster, so even one trip a year can justify the $100 five-year fee.
2. What’s the difference between TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?
TSA PreCheck speeds up the security screening process, while CLEAR lets you skip the ID check line entirely. Using them together offers the fastest airport experience possible.
3. Are airport lounges really worth the cost?
Absolutely, especially if you travel a few times a year. Lounges provide a quiet place to relax, eat, and recharge, turning long layovers or delays into something you can actually enjoy.
4. Should I get an annual travel insurance plan?
If you take more than two or three trips per year, an annual plan can save money and simplify coverage. It protects you from medical emergencies, cancellations, and delays for every trip you take that year.
