Dress Smartly You will have to take your jackets and shoes off at the security checkpoint and put them into a plastic bin for screening unless you are over age 75. Wear shoes that require minimal effort to take off and put back on — you'd hate to re-lace those knee-high boots if you're in a rush!

In 2026, the "Golden Rule" for TSA is to prioritize removability and simplicity. While a major update in mid-2025 now allows travelers in standard lanes to keep their shoes on in most U.S. airports, TSA officers can still mandate removal if your footwear contains high metal content (like steel toes or heavy buckles). A high-value strategy is to wear slip-on shoes with socks to stay hygienic if asked to divest. Avoid "bulky" items like thick hoodies, heavy sweaters, or cargo pants with excessive metal zippers, as these often trigger a pat-down by obscuring the body scanner's silhouette. It is a peer-to-peer essential to empty your pockets of everything—including non-metallic items like tissues or gum wrappers—into your carry-on bag before reaching the bin. For those with TSA PreCheck, the experience is even smoother, as you can keep on light jackets and belts, but the advice to avoid large metal jewelry remains the best way to ensure a "one-and-done" walk through the scanner.