TSA security screening at American airports is never fun. Long lines, surly agents, invasive procedures, and fumbling to get all our possessions through the x-ray machine can make for a stressful experience. After many early morning runs through the TSA security screening checkpoints, I have learned what works well in order to get me through security as fast and hassle-free as possible.
There is a whole thought process on choosing a lane, lining up your bags, etc, but that’s for another post. Right now I want to share the four items I ALWAYS bring through security that help make the process a breeze.
Slip on Shoes - When moving through security, untying and retying laces takes time and can hold up the line behind you. When rushing to make a flight, being able to slip your shoes off and on can be the difference between making and missing your flight.
These shoes fit the bill nicely, though they look like they were made out of towels. At least they'll absorb your tears after you're groped by a TSA agent.
Security Friendly Belt – There seems to be a threshold for the amount of metal that can pass through a security screening device without setting it off. Find a belt that is below this threshold. I experimented with the different belts I own, subjecting myself to setting off the security screening on multiple occasions until I found a belt that did not set it off. I now wear this belt every time I fly. Being able to keep my belt on saves precious seconds and the awkward dance of trying to put my belt on as I rush to my flight.
Even though he has a really cool shirt, try not to be this guy when going through security. Metal buckle, metal studded belt, metal chain...if only his lasso were metal.
Jacket – Except for in the heat of the summer, I almost always travel with a light jacket. Aside from keeping me warm on cold airplanes or functioning as a makeshift pillow on early morning flights, it is also the perfect carry-all device for everything in my pockets that needs to be removed before going through security. My cellphone, keys, wallet, change, and everything else goes into the pocket of my jacket before it comes off and goes through the x-ray machine. No messing with little plastic buckets or losing anything important – it’s all right there in the jacket on the other side.
You don't need an expensive jacket worthy of James Bond or a douchebag. Two pockets generally work just fine.
TSA Approved Laptop Case - A few years ago, the TSA approved a select number of laptop cases that were allowed to pass through security without the user having to take the laptop out. These are great, cheap little cases that not only protect your laptop as it goes through security screening but also reduce the inconvenience of having to take it out on its’ own every time. Having one of these on hand eliminates one more hassle from the TSA security dance.
Additional styles not approved: bags made out of guns
Some of these things seem so obvious, yet it was a long time before I finally got the perfect combination working in harmony that allows me to pass through security with little or no hassle.
I’d love to hear your tips and tricks for making it through security. Share them with me in the comments.
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{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
didn’t realise security is that tight in the US. At least you’ll get away wearing that shirt! LOL
Amer recently posted..My first impression of India..how Bollywood finally make sense to me
Security can vary from city to city as far as HOW strict they are, but in general it is a pretty big hassle.
i was in the airport today and set off all kinds of alarms and had no idea why (and i travel ALOT). apparently my new ‘rubber/plastic’ watch did it. who knew. so i think for females especially, it is efficient to put the jewelry in a coat pocket, like mentioned, and put it on after getting though security.
great post!
Megan recently posted..Favorite Photo Friday: Plungė Train Stop, Lithuania
Interesting – it’s funny how the smallest things can set the metal detectors off. I was actually thinking about how different this article could be if it were written from the perspective of a female – there are certainly things like jewelry, purses, etc. that can change this drastically.
This is a great list. I used to work for security in Canada, and I used to dread when someone would come into the line wearing lots of metal. So many people didn’t realize even tinfoil in a gum pack can set off the metal detector. The fact you found a nonringing belt is pretty amazing.
Alouise recently posted..Photo Essay – Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden
I think no matter what you’ll always still have those who have no clue how a metal detector works. I’m lucky with that belt!
One more thing for the ladies, my underwire always sets off the alarm. I usually just get wanded down but it`s possible some way it could get weird.
Ayngelina recently posted..Looking for love in all the wrong places
Good point. I’m sure there are a few other things I’m missing here so I appreciate comments like these!