Did you Know?

You may be missing out on some great perks the credit card companies offer consumers. 

So STOP what you’re doing and take a look at your credit card benefits!     

With the summer travel season coming up, now is the time to know exactly what all the advantages are for some of the credit cards that hold space in our wallets!  With the major companies all vying for our business, some pretty amazing perks are being included!  Don’t get me wrong, sometimes the bigger the extras…the higher the annual fee.  So make sure you’re getting those credit cards that are customized to your needs and that all your credit card extras are being used!  There are a few companies that give you the best of both worlds, great perks and low annual fees.  Chase, Capital One and of course American Express just to name a few.  

Ok, Ok, Ok, So you’re asking…What are these credit card benefits you’re talking about?!?  

The first perk and my favorite is TSA Precheck for domestic travel and Global Entry for international travel.  TSA Precheck starts when you arrive at the airport!  A dedicated security line is available (at most US airports) and it cuts wait time sometimes in half!  Here in Hawaii during busy travel times, the line for TSA can be over 3 hours.  It’s crazy!  

You don’t have to take off your shoes, jackets or any of the other things regular travelers must do to get through security.  It’s makes the whole TSA / Security experience so much better and less anxiety for people who have issues at the airport.   This membership is 5 years and it costs $78.  There is an interview process and background check that is required but it is all worth it!  If everything goes through and you “Check out”, then you’ll receive your TSA Precheck number via email and it can be used immediately!  When your TSA Precheck number is in a reservation the logo will be in your boarding pass.  If you don’t see the PreCheck then most likely it’s not in the reservation.  So if this is one of the extras you’ve got coming to you…Take advantage of it!  Believe me when I tell you it will change your whole airport experience forever! 

The next perk is also a great advantage if you’ve got it! 

It’s called Priority Pass and it’s a game changer!  Say goodbye to sitting in those uncomfortable seats crammed with a bunch of other travelers!  With Priority Pass, you and a guest have access to select lounges in certain airports. Having lounge access is kind of like that feeling when you sit in First Class and you never want to sit in coach again!  In some airports, you get food and beverage credits at participating restaurants.  There are also Relaxation areas and other specialty areas set aside for Priority Pass members.  If you’re not a member, you don’t know what you’re missing!  Some of the lounges available are so comfortable, you might not want to leave! Unfortunately though, this perk isn’t available in every airport but is in over 1300+ airports around the world!   

So now you know the secret…you’re welcome!  Check those credit cards and enjoy your time at the airport!  Happy Travels and Aloha!!