A Game Changer for Honeymoon Destinations Beyond Central Illinois
- Janelle Hermann
- Apr 30
- 5 min read
Global Entry and CLEAR - A Game Changer for Honeymoon Destinations
As my husband and I prepared for our honeymoon destination, we discussed ways to make our travel experience as smooth as possible. At the time, our destination was a surprise, so I had no idea where we would end up! The only piece of information supplied to me was that we were leaving Central IL. With our bags packed and excitement building, we turned our attention to Global Entry and CLEAR—two programs designed to speed up the dreaded airport procedures, which have always seemed to be a huge hurdle for us. But the big question remained: Are Global Entry and CLEAR worth it for our honeymoon travels?
In this post, I’ll share our discoveries on both programs, exploring how they can enhance the overall travel experience.
Understanding Global Entry
Global Entry is a program provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to speed up their entry into the United States. Members can use kiosks at select airports that take you around the long lines you find at customs. In order to qualify for Global Entry, you will need to apply for a thorough background check, an interview at an international hub airport, and an application fee of approximately $100 for a five-year membership.
Traveling internationally can be very chaotic, especially with all the current security measures. For a couple that values their relaxation time, speeding through customs gave us so much less anxiety—especially when returning from our adventures in places like Italy or Venice, where we were exhausted yet eager to get home.
Exploring CLEAR
CLEAR follows a different approach by streamlining the security screening process at airports. Members can skip the standard security line by having their identity verified through fingerprinting or facial recognition. Membership costs are a bit higher than Global Entry. For $189 per year, your membership includes bringing up to three guests through the expedited lane, making it a great option for couples, friend groups, or families.
By using CLEAR, one could save precious moments during an airport experience. While this is not the route we took, I could see how it would appeal to couples planning a popular honeymoon destination, knowing that security lines can be long and plane delays can hinder honeymoon travel plans.
Comparing the Benefits for Honeymoon Destination Travelers
Now, let's take a closer look at the specific benefits of Global Entry and CLEAR as they relate to couples embarking on a honeymoon destination.
Saving Time
Both programs cut down on wait times significantly, which is so important for anyone traveling for relaxation and enjoyment. Instead of spending time waiting, we sought to explore the food and drink options within the terminal, perhaps enjoying a meal before our flight. If you're like me, a little food in your stomach before you fly is a must!
So with Global Entry or CLEAR, we could land back in the United States and completely bypass a 30-minute wait at customs and security, especially when coming from international flights. To us, that was worth the extra effort it took ahead of time to enroll in one of these programs.
International Travel Convenience
Since our honeymoon involved international travel, Global Entry was particularly appealing. It not only expedited our re-entry into the U.S. but also allowed for quick navigation at participating airports worldwide. I will say, though, not all airports recognize Global Entry, and when traveling within the U.S., it doesn't do much for you.
Imagine arriving in a new city, eagerly anticipating the day ahead, and being able to zip through customs in a matter of minutes rather than standing in line for an hour. This convenience allows for smoother transitions and a welcoming experience in foreign lands.
Enhanced Security Measures
Both programs prioritize security as well. Global Entry includes an extensive background check, and CLEAR employs state-of-the-art biometric technology, ensuring that we feel secure while traveling.
The high-security protocols of both programs fueled our interest. We deserve to enjoy our honeymoon without worrying about potential delays or security concerns.
Factoring Costs for Honeymoon Destination Travelers
Next is the financial aspect. The $100 fee for Global Entry is reasonable considering you have five years until renewal, but the annual cost of CLEAR at $189 should not be overlooked. The big question is whether the benefits justify the investment for a special honeymoon.
If we expect to use these services frequently during our travels, they could certainly be worth the cost. And since we do travel internationally quite a bit, Global Entry seems to fit our situation the best. With there being only two of us, we would not use the benefits of CLEAR in comparison to the cost.
Consider Your Travel Frequency
If you travel often for work or leisure, both Global Entry and CLEAR are likely wise investments. However, you do have to decide how frequently you would realistically use these services.
If your honeymoon is the only trip you plan to take, then the cost wouldn't deliver enough value. Nevertheless, if you decide after your honeymoon that you both have a passion for travel, you could always apply for either program for future trips.
Experience and Convenience for Honeymoon Destination Travelers
Ultimately, both Global Entry and CLEAR promise vastly improved experiences at airports, which we cherished.
After looking into the benefits of both programs, we found that Global Entry users found it much easier to reenter the U.S., while CLEAR members raved about how quick it was to get through security. Many travelers commented on how they appreciated the ease of these programs and the reduction of stress they provided during travel. This resonated with us and aligned with our goal—less time in transit means more time to thoroughly enjoy our honeymoon experience!
Final Thoughts on Honeymoon Destination Ease
So, were Global Entry and/or CLEAR worth it for our honeymoon destination? YES! They worked perfectly for our international destination. For you, it ultimately depends on your travel plans beyond your honeymoon travel destination.
For us, the benefits were enticing—particularly the chance to save time and eliminate stress upon returning home. Global Entry seems to be the best option for a small investment, while CLEAR might be too much of a stretch for just one journey. But no matter which you choose, I can assure you of the promise of smoother travels in the adventures that lie ahead.
If you’re considering Global Entry or CLEAR for your special trip, weigh your options carefully. They could be the ticket to transforming your travel experience from enjoyable to exceptional!
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