As has been widely reported, the situation with Transportation Security Administration screening lines and staffing at airports across the country currently ranges from not great to absolutely terrible as the partial government shutdown stretches on.
At my home airport — Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) — things have been worse than average, with screening lines having wait times of up to 270 minutes (over four hours) today alone. And both TSA PreCheck and Clear were closed this afternoon when I was scheduled to fly, making it increasingly likely that I would be stuck waiting in a lengthy line.
But I was miraculously able to walk right through for just $99, thanks to a Clear Concierge Express appointment I booked a few days ago. Here's what you need to know about the program.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on The Points Guy Articles.


