Never Do This With Jewelry at TSA Checkpoints

This past weekend was my first time flying since I signed up for TSA PreCheck, and I don’t know what I was waiting for. At the end of last year, I traveled nearly every other week, and the constant pauses and pat-downs drove me crazy. I know a thing or two about getting through TSA in a hurry, but when I was assigned the topic of finding out what jewelry you can get by with, I was at a loss for words. After a quick chat with TSA representative Lisa Farbstein, I now know every gritty detail. Farbstein first let me in on a relieving sentiment: “TSA officers don’t want to give pat-downs, and travelers don’t want to receive them.” So we’re on the same page.

Farbstein told me that while there are no specific guidelines, she’s learned a thing or two holding a role that keeps her so close to the metal detectors and tubular X-ray machines. Her main advice is to avoid wearing anything bulky, but you’re good with the majority of your everyday pieces. “People often take off jewelry that they don’t need to take off honestly. Sometimes they take off light earrings or a dainty necklace. They often end up leaving this behind,” she shared. If you don’t want to lose your jewelry, wear it through security or leave it in your carry-on.