What to Wear Through an Airport Scanner: Avoiding Travel Delays

Navigating airport security can be one of the more stressful parts of flying, especially if you’re unprepared. One small detail that can make or break your experience? What you wear. The wrong outfit can lead to extra screening, awkward pat-downs, or unnecessary delays. But with a few simple wardrobe tweaks, you can breeze through the airport security scanner and head to your gate with time to spare. Here’s how to dress smartly for airport security while still feeling comfortable and looking good.

Choose Shoes That Are Easy to Remove

Let’s start from the ground up. Unless you’re enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you’ll need to take off your shoes at security. That means your knee-high lace-up boots or tightly strapped sandals are a no-go. Instead, opt for slip-ons or sneakers that you can remove and put back on quickly. If you’re not a fan of going barefoot on the airport floor, wear socks—even if you’re flying in summer. This not only keeps your feet clean but also helps you stay warm on chilly flights.

Skip the Excessive Metal

Airport scanners are designed to detect metal, so any outfit that includes bulky or metallic accessories can trigger extra screening. That includes belts with large buckles, metal buttons, underwire bras, and layered jewelry. If you can’t leave the bling at home, pack it in your carry-on and put it on after you clear security. A minimalist approach will save you time and prevent unnecessary pat-downs. Even small items like bobby pins or hair clips can sometimes cause issues if they’re metallic and numerous.

Layer Wisely

Airports and planes are notorious for unpredictable temperatures. Layers are your best friend, but be strategic about them. Security agents may ask you to remove jackets, bulky sweatshirts, or hoodies. Wearing a thin base layer like a long-sleeved T-shirt or lightweight pullover under a zip-up jacket can make the process smoother. Avoid tight or complicated outfits that are hard to remove if you’re selected for secondary screening. If you’re wearing outerwear with multiple pockets, make sure they’re emptied before you get to the conveyor belt.

Go Light on the Accessories

Watches, sunglasses, hats, scarves, and statement necklaces all look great—until you’re holding up the line trying to remove each one. Simplify your accessories before heading to the airport. Keep things in your bag until you’re past security. If you must wear a belt, consider one made from plastic or fabric to avoid metal detection. And for travelers who wear religious or cultural head coverings, know that you can request a private screening if needed. TSA agents are trained to be respectful and accommodating in such situations.

Avoid Clothing With Hidden Compartments

While travel gear with secret pockets can be handy, it can also raise eyebrows at airport security. Pants or jackets with hidden zippers, compartments, or heavy stitching might look suspicious on a scanner and lead to additional screening. If you’re traveling with gear like a money belt, it’s often best to remove it and place it in a bin to avoid questions or delays. If you do wear one, let the TSA officer know before walking through the scanner.

Mind What’s in Your Pockets

This sounds obvious, but it’s surprisingly easy to forget about small items like lip balm, tissues, or loose change in your pockets. Airport scanners are designed to detect even small objects, and having anything on you can slow down your trip through the checkpoint. Before you reach the front of the line, double-check your pockets. Empty them into your bag or the security bin ahead of time to keep things moving.

Comfort Still Matters

Of course, none of this means you need to sacrifice comfort for convenience. Choose clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Joggers, leggings, and relaxed-fit pants are great for long flights and won’t raise any red flags at security. Just avoid outfits with too many bells and whistles. Simple, comfortable, and scanner-friendly—that’s the winning combination.

Dress to De-Stress

Airport security doesn’t have to be a hassle. By wearing the right outfit, you can cut down your wait time, avoid extra screening, and start your trip on the right foot. Think slip-on shoes, minimal metal, smart layering, and empty pockets. It’s not about dressing up or down—it’s about dressing smart. Next time you pack your carry-on, take a moment to plan your outfit too. Your future self at the TSA checkpoint will thank you.