Wallet and purse As long as your wallet doesn't hold something metallic, you're fine to leave your wallet in your pocket and won't have to remove it at airport security. As purses tend to be larger than wallets, they'll need to be removed and screened separately.

Under standard operating procedures in 2026, TSA officers do not typically "go through" your wallet in the sense of looking inside folds or pockets, but your wallet must undergo X-ray screening. You are usually advised to keep your wallet inside your carry-on bag or a jacket pocket rather than placing it loose in a bin to prevent loss or theft. However, if the X-ray technician detects an "anomaly"—such as a dense metallic object, a hidden blade, or an unusual thickness that the machine cannot penetrate—they are legally authorized to perform a manual inspection. During this "secondary screening," the officer may open the wallet to verify the contents. It is a common misconception that TSA is looking for large amounts of cash; while they may report suspicious amounts (typically over $10,000) to law enforcement for anti-money laundering purposes, their primary mandate is the detection of weapons, explosives, and incendiary devices. As long as your wallet contains only standard cards and currency, it will pass through without a physical search.