Dress the Part
Be aware that any metal detected at the checkpoint must be identified. If you set off the alarm, you will be required to undergo additional screening, including a hand-wanding and a pat-down inspection that includes the torso.
You can remove metal items at the security checkpoint and place them in the bins provided. The bins will be sent through the X-ray machine. You can save time, however, by not wearing metal items or by placing such items in your carry-on baggage before you get in line.
TSA Shoe Screening Policy
You are NOT REQUIRED to remove your shoes before you enter the walk-through metal detector. However, TSA screeners may encourage you to remove them before entering the metal detector as many types of footwear will require additional screening even if the metal detector DOES NOT alarm.
Footwear that screeners will encourage you to remove because they are likely to require additional screening:
- Boots
- Platform shoes (including platform flip-flops)
- Footwear with a thick sole or heel (including athletic shoes)
- Footwear containing metal (including many dress shoes)
Footwear that screeners are less likely to suggest you remove includes:
- "Beach" flip-flops
- Thin-soled sandals (without metal)
TIP: Since a thorough screening includes x-ray inspection of footwear, wearing footwear that is easily removable helps to speed you through the screening process.
TIP: Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry, or other accessories that contain metal when traveling:
- Jewelry (pins, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches, earrings, body piercings, cuff links, lanyard or bolo tie)
- Clothing with metal buttons, snaps or studs
- Metal hair barrettes or other hair decoration
- Belt buckles
- Under-wire brassieres
Hidden items such as body piercings may result in a pat-down inspection. You may ask to remove your body piercing in private as an alternative to the pat-down search.
TIP: Avoid placing metal items in your pockets.
- Keys, loose change, lighters
- Mobile phones, pagers, and personal data assistants (PDAs)
TIP: Instead, place jewelry and other metal items in your carry-on baggage until you clear security.
TIP: Pack all your coats and jackets in your baggage when possible.
All coats and jackets must go through the X-ray machine for inspection. These include, but are not limited to, trench coats, heavy winter coats, suit jackets, sport coats, and blazers. If you choose to wear an outer coat or jacket to the checkpoint, you will need to either place it in your carry-on or put it in the bin that is provided for you.
* Information courtesy of the Transportation Security Administration
