5 Things You Shouldn't Wear Through Airport Security

Excited about your next travel adventure? Whether you're jet-setting to a two-week tropical vacation or hopping on a quick business flight on the company's dime, traveling is typically both fun and stressful. And, of course, we're guessing that slogging through the airport security line doesn't rank among anyone's favorite travel memories.

From slow queues and liquid restrictions to unloading what feels like half your bag into individual trays for security screening, most TSA lines are like a study in bureaucratic misery. What a way to kick off your trip, right? But while certain things can't be controlled — that line is only going to move as fast as it moves — there are some small techniques that can help you get through the experience with fewer headaches. You can begin by eschewing any garments that don't play well with TSA requirements, which can surprisingly include everything from belly button rings and bedazzled denim to puffer jackets and corset tops.

Accessories can be the final touch that makes or breaks an outfit, but fashionistas take note: There are some jewelry items better left in your luggage while traveling. Basically, anything made of metal runs the risk of setting off metal detectors and slowing down your journey. This can include necklaces, bracelets, watches, belts, wallet chains, chunky rings, and piercings of all descriptions. Even hair accessories like metal clips or barrettes might ping sensors, and do you really want to be stuck deconstructing your updo in the middle of security? We think not.

As for belts, bear in mind that this isn't just an advisory against metal chain belts — most other belts still include metal fastenings that could trigger alarms. So, try to avoid belted outfits in general, or be extra careful to place your belt in that TSA tray before it's too late.

Can't bear to part with your bangles for the whole trip? If certain accessories are a crucial part of your travel outfit, simply tuck them into the pocket of your carry-on bag until you've successfully cruised through the security line. Then you can put on your must-have accessories without causing yourself unnecessary hassle or delays.

If you're usually a fan of goth, edgy, or otherwise metal-heavy aesthetics, sorry: Avoiding accents like studs, chains, or loops should be a given at the airport, where a run in with the metal detectors will have TSA agents happily pulling you out of the security line for extra examination. However, some people also report running into security problems for less-obvious sartorial touches, such as sequins, sparkles, rhinestones, and even metallic thread.

"I went through TSA recently with someone wearing a shirt that contained many metallic threads. Don't do that. The machine flagged him repeatedly, and I had to sit there for ten minutes before they finally cleared him," one traveler shared on Reddit. Another added their own similar experience, writing that "the TSA agent patting me down said to never wear sparkles on air travel days." Yep, that sequined minidress and those jewel-encrusted jeans will have to stay at home for now — or, at least, in your suitcase.

We hate to say it, but certain shoes simply shouldn't appear in your airport outfits. From open-toe styles that leave your feet to freeze on the plane to stiletto heels that could punch a hole in evacuation slides, not every shoe is travel-friendly. Unfortunately, this includes various styles that could cause problems at security.

While it's true that some airports are modifying or doing away with the requirement to remove your shoes in the TSA line, this depends on the location and the type of footwear. Airports may still ask passengers to remove extremely chunky or tall shoes, whether your style is more aligned with grungy Dr. Martens or sleek, knee-high riding boots.

For a smooth travel experience, it's best to assume you'll have to take your shoes off, then let yourself be pleasantly surprised if that's not the case. In other words, opt for footwear that's easy to put on or remove. For one thing, easily removable shoes will help the line move faster as you throw your carry-on items onto the scanning belt. And remember, you'll also have to get the shoes on again — sometimes without the aid of a chair or even anywhere to lean. In these scenarios, slip-ons are your new best friends.

We know that oversized everything continues to be a booming trend, but there's a time and a place for these fashions — and the airport security line isn't it. Anything from sweatshirts and oversized grandpa sweaters to voluminous dresses can pose a problem with TSA by making it look like you've got something to hide underneath. Sorry if you were trying to save space in your luggage by wearing your chunkiest layers, but it seems like this strategy could backfire where streamlined travel is concerned.

"Wearing bulky or especially oversized clothing — whether to be avant-garde or super comfortable — can look suspicious to TSA," personal stylist Jennifer Koch told Today. Security agents will almost certainly make you remove coats, jackets, and pullovers, so ensure you have something decent on underneath. For items that can't be removed in public, like poofy skirts, prepare yourself to be wanded or patted down — an extra step that can not only be intrusive but can also cause untimely delays for passengers in a hurry to reach their boarding gate.

If possible, sidestep these issues altogether. While you don't have to don skin-tight spandex from head to toe, you may want to skip your favorite oversized pieces or at least have them off and ready for scanning before you reach the conveyor belt at security.

Even on a regular day, underwire bras can be a divisive subject. Some people swear by them for much-needed support, while others lament their stiff, uncomfortable design. Well, if you needed one more excuse to leave that underwire bra at home, here it is: The metal band that gives your bra its name could also trigger sensors at security, leading to a very awkward conversation with your TSA agent.

Instead, consider the soft structure of a bralette or T-shirt bra to keep things contained without all the metal bits. As an added bonus, this will probably be more comfortable during your flight, especially if it's a long journey or you'll be trying to catch a few Z's on the plane.

In the same vein, wearing a corset top could set off literal alarm bells. While many inexpensive and mid-range options use plastic boning to create the corset's rigid shape, others might incorporate thin, metal strips that won't pass muster with security. If you aren't sure which type of boning your favorite corset uses, consider opting for a fabric-only substitute like a cottagecore bodice.