Locum tenens travel work can send you all across the country to interesting new places. This means you may find yourself on an airplane, which entails going to the airport, standing in an airport security line, and abiding by TSA clothing rules and regulations. This experience is never fun, but there are a few things to know to help you roll through it like a pro. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about what you can expect when going through airport security.
Are there TSA clothing rules?
More or less. While the TSA doesn’t specifically forbid you from wearing any clothing (unless it can reasonably be used as a weapon or it threatens other passengers), choosing your clothing items carefully can expedite the airport security process.
For example, you don’t want to wear any clothes with offensive or threatening material—while the TSA may let you through, you could be denied boarding by an airline. And you don’t want to wear baggy clothes: while this isn’t expressly prohibited, it could extend the length of time you’re with airport security.
Are there jacket rules when going through TSA?
During airport screening, you’ll be asked to take off your coat or jacket for the TSA, including bulky outerwear such as parkas and vests. It’s OK to wear a coat to the airport, of course, but it helps the security line move faster if you remember to take it off and put it in a screening bin before proceeding through the metal detector or body scanner (AIT).
Do I have to take off my sweater at airport security?
Sometimes—it all really depends on the TSA agent who is manning the security line. If you’re wearing an extremely baggy sweater, the TSA may ask you to remove it and put it in the bin for screening. If you’re wearing a classic fitted sweater underneath a jacket, you might not have to take it off. Regardless, it’s best to be safe and wear something underneath your sweater in the event a TSA agent asks you to remove it.
Do I have to take off my hoodie or cardigan at airport security?
Again, this depends on the TSA agents who are manning the security line. Oftentimes, you can wear a hoodie through airport security, but like sweaters, you should wear a T-shirt or something else underneath if you are asked to remove your hoodie.
What shoes should I wear at airport security?
Some airports are quite large, and you’ll definitely want to wear shoes that are comfortable for walking. Make sure your shoes are easy to slip on and off because most airport securities require you to remove them temporarily. You do not want to slow down the line because you’re struggling with strappy sandals or knotted laces. In addition, wearing socks is important, otherwise you may find yourself walking through security in bare feet.
Do I have to take off my belt for the TSA?
Yes. Belt buckles can easily cause issues, and most TSA rules and regulations require you to remove them anyway. If you want to be a travel pro, choose a belt-free outfit—or at least preemptively remove your belt and put it in the bin with your phone and wallet.
Can I bring big luggage through airport security?
TSA rules and regulations only allow one smaller-sized suitcase and one carry-on item when boarding the plane. Don’t attempt to move through security with more than these items because you may find yourself being told to check your bags and start over at the back of the line. In addition, you’ll want to keep your luggage organized: place electronics and liquids near the top so they’re easily accessible when you need to pull them out.
What else should I avoid wearing through airport security?
In addition to complex shoes, here’s a quick list of some of the other things you should avoid wearing when you go through airport security:
Anything Metal
Metal jewelry and piercings can set off the metal detector. Likewise, Metal fasteners on clothing and even the keys you accidentally leave in your pocket could require you to undergo extra screening. Finally, minimize the number of bobby pins or metal-heavy barrettes in your hair.
Baggy Clothing
While baggy clothing isn’t prohibited, TSA rules and regulations may require you to undergo extra screening if they cannot clear you as safe to travel. Baggy clothing can include low-hanging pants, flowy skirts, heavy sweaters or sweatshirts, and loose dresses—in other words, things that would allow malicious travelers to hide prohibited items. Airport security may need to do a pat-down inspection if your clothes are too loose and they suspect you may be hiding prohibited items.
Can I carry a coat on a plane?
Although the TSA might permit you to keep loose items such as coats separate during screening, your specific airline may have different policies. Its best to plan ahead and ensure you have optimized your space.
When will the TSA require a real ID?
While not clothing related, why bother packing if your license is not a certified real ID. A real ID is an identification card that meets federal requirements for safety and allows you to travel domestically. Starting May 7th, 2025 all travelers must have a real ID. To learn more about this change, visit the TSA website.
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally written in June 2023 by Dr. Melissa De Capua, DNP, PMHNP, and was updated in March 2024 by Mike Connors. The article was then updated again in April 2025 by Nate Taylor to reflect current information.
