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Editor’s note: This recurring article is regularly updated with new offers and information. Certain tools are nonnegotiable when it comes to seamless travel. For me, the ones I regularly turn to are Clear and TSA PreCheck. Both programs help travelers pass through Transportation Security Administration lines quicker. I’m also a fan of Global Entry, which expedites the customs process upon returning to the U.S. from abroad. Here’s what to know about each program — and how to get them for free or at a discounted rate. What are TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear? DAVID TRAN/GETTY IMAGES TSA PreCheck TSA PreCheck users can pass through airport security using a dedicated line — without taking off their shoes, belts or light jackets or removing their laptops or liquids from their bags, like passengers in the regular TSA line do. According to the TSA, 99% of TSA PreCheck users wait less than 10 minutes to get through airport security. Clear Thanks to biometric identification (via fingerprint or iris scans), Clear users typically do not have to show their IDs anytime during security screening. However, Clear users should still bring their ID when traveling, as the TSA reserves the right to subject all passengers to random ID checks. Clear

Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers. If you frequently travel internationally, you’ve likely come to adore Global Entry. Global Entry gives preapproved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival in the U.S. from abroad — and is worth applying for if you want to make your travels less stressful. Global Entry expedites entry to the U.S. via exclusive designated kiosks in more than 75 airports, which bypass lengthy U.S. Customs and Border Protection lines. In addition, if you depart from one of 15 preclearance locations, you can clear customs before physically reentering the U.S. Here’s what to know about applying for or renewing Global Entry — including how to get it for free, what to expect during the interview process and how it differs from other Trusted Traveler Programs. Using credit cards to get Global Entry for free Though CBP charges a $120 nonrefundable application fee for a five-year membership, many credit cards will reimburse you for these fees by issuing a credit. This credit is typically available every four to five years, though you should check the terms for your specific card for the exact frequency. A variety of low-annual-fee and premium

Editor’s note: This post has been updated with current information. Avios is a popular loyalty currency used by a wide range of airline programs, including: Aer Lingus AerClub British Airways Club Finnair Plus Iberia Club Loganair Loyalty Qatar Airways Privilege Club Vueling Club With so many programs now adopting Avios, earning and redeeming this coveted rewards currency is easier than ever. But on which airlines can you redeem Avios? Related: Qatar Airways Qsuite review: Still setting the standard for business class (and a mileage sweet spot) Which airlines can you book with Avios? BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY You’re not restricted to just the above airlines when it comes to redeeming Avios. There’s an impressive range of airlines to choose from, depending on which of the programs you use. Since you can transfer Avios between the programs listed above, you have maximum flexibility for Avios redemptions. However, the airline redemption list isn’t the same for each program. Redeem Avios for flights on Oneworld alliance airlines KYLE OLSEN/THE POINTS GUY British Airways is a founding member of the global Oneworld alliance. Oneworld is one of the “Big Three” alliances, with the other two being Star Alliance and SkyTeam. Assuming award availability, you