Jackets and Coats During airport screening, you'll be asked to remove coats and jackets, including bulky outerwear such as hoodies, parkas, sweaters, and vests.

You can technically wear a hoodie through a TSA checkpoint in 2026, but you will almost certainly be asked to remove it and place it in a bin for X-ray screening. TSA classifies hoodies, jackets, and heavy sweatshirts as "outerwear" or "bulky clothing," which can be used to conceal prohibited items. If you are wearing a thin, lightweight hoodie and have TSA PreCheck, you may occasionally be allowed to keep it on, but even then, it is at the discretion of the officer. If you choose not to remove a bulky hoodie—or if you aren't wearing a shirt underneath it—you will be required to undergo a pat-down screening and potentially a hand-held metal detector sweep. A recent 2026 viral incident highlighted the importance of "layering": a traveler who wore a hoodie with nothing underneath was forced to choose between removing it in public or a thorough pat-down. To ensure the fastest experience, it is highly recommended to wear a t-shirt or tank top under your hoodie so you can easily strip it off and put it in the bin without delay.