> At a Glance
> – Travel advisor Nicole Campoy Jackson says whether to ditch your partner for PreCheck depends on the situation
> – Business trips: go ahead; romantic trips: probably not
> – Families can split up if kids meet age requirements and grandparents can handle it
> – Why it matters: Knowing the etiquette saves relationships and keeps lines moving
That awkward moment when you glide toward the short PreCheck line and your companion heads to the regular queue-do you wait or walk? Travel advisor Nicole Campoy Jackson of Fora Travel tells News Of Los Angeles the answer shifts with every trip.
Know Your Audience, Then Decide
On business trips, Jackson gives a green light: “No need to wait in line unnecessarily.” Conversely, newlyweds should think twice about abandoning their partner at security on day one of married life.
Travelers without PreCheck should also “know themselves.” If security stresses you out, say so before you reach the ropes.
Family Travel Adds Extra Rules
TSA lets kids 12 and under piggyback on an enrolled parent without restriction. Teens 13-17 can join only if their own boarding pass shows the PreCheck logo.
Multi-generational groups can split if elders have PreCheck, but don’t offload kid-duty unless you’re sure everyone can cope.
When You Absolutely Should Not Split
Jackson flags three no-go situations:
- Your companion can’t lift a carry-on alone
- They’re anxious or inexperienced and need support
- You’d leave a spouse solo with young kids or a slower-moving elderly parent
Can You Push Back if Asked to Skip PreCheck?
Yes-once. Jackson suggests a polite, “Please let me keep my laptop in my bag, I beg of you.” If they still insist, respect the request; otherwise, your partner has “every right” to be annoyed.
Her light-hearted fix: send the speedier traveler to Starbucks with your exact order while you wait.
Is PreCheck Worth the Fee?
Jackson’s verdict: “a thousand times yes.” A $78 application buys five years of faster screening at 200-plus U.S. airports. Online renewal drops to $70; in-person renewal stays $78.
| Cost | Duration | Renewal Online | Renewal In-Person |
|---|---|---|---|
| $78 | 5 years | $70 | $78 |
If everyone in the group has it, the debate-and potential drama-disappears.
Key Takeaways
- Business partner without PreCheck? Head for the short line
- Honeymoon? Stay together
- Kids under 13 can tag along; teens need the logo on the pass
- Don’t ditch anyone who genuinely needs help
- One polite push-back is fair; after that, respect the request
Next time you fly, weigh the relationship against the five-minute convenience before you step into that PreCheck lane.
