Wearing a hoodie through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints is common for travelers seeking comfort and warmth. You can wear a hoodie to the airport, but you must remove it during the screening process. This requirement applies to all similar bulky outerwear and ensures the integrity of the security screening technology. Preparing for the temporary removal of the hoodie can expedite your passage through the security line.
Mandatory Removal During Screening
Travelers must remove all bulky outer garments before passing through the screening equipment. This procedure is mandatory whether using a walk-through metal detector or an Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanner. The requirement applies to any garment considered an outer layer or of a substantial size.
To comply with the procedure, take off your hoodie while waiting in line and place it flat into a designated screening bin. Check all pockets beforehand to remove items like keys, phones, or wallets that could set off an alarm. Placing the hoodie flat on the conveyor belt ensures a clear X-ray image for security personnel.
After the hoodie has been scanned and you have passed through the primary screening device, you can retrieve your bin and put the garment back on. Practicing this action quickly helps maintain the flow of traffic at the security checkpoint. Having a base layer shirt underneath the hoodie is advisable for comfort and modesty during the brief removal period.
Security Rationale and Related Apparel
The reason for the mandatory removal of hoodies is the garment’s bulk and its potential to conceal prohibited items. The loose fit and thick fabric create a density that interferes with the clear image resolution of X-ray and AIT scanners. This interference makes it difficult for a security officer to confirm that no threat items are hidden underneath the material.
The security logic applies to any piece of clothing classified as bulky. This includes oversized pullover sweatshirts, heavy sweaters, large cardigans, and ponchos. The policy also extends to light outer garments, such as windbreakers and blazers, which are defined as outer layers with a full front zipper or buttons.
Choosing a non-bulky shirt or jacket for the flight is the best strategy to minimize delays. If wearing a hoodie is necessary, removing it quickly and placing it alone in a bin allows for a clearer scan, reducing the likelihood of secondary screening. Failure to remove bulky clothing may result in the AIT scanner alarming, requiring a physical pat-down by a security officer.