Avoiding Airport Scanners: Tips For A Smooth Getaway

Airport security has become increasingly invasive, with full-body scanners and pat-downs causing frustration for travellers. While security measures are in place to protect passengers, many wish to avoid the scrutiny of full-body scanners, which use backscatter x-ray machines or millimetre wave technology to detect objects beneath clothing. These scanners have been criticised for their use of ionizing radiation and invasion of privacy, with some countries banning them. Although the risk of health effects is considered very low, travellers may still wish to avoid these scanners. To do so, travellers can arrive early at the airport, choose a security line far from the scanners, avoid wearing metal, and refrain from making eye contact with TSA agents. Alternatively, travellers can opt for a full-body pat-down or sign up for TSA Precheck to avoid scanners most times.

Show up early to the airport

Showing up early to the airport is a great strategy to avoid full-body scanners. Here's why:

When you arrive at the airport early, you have a better chance of avoiding the full-body scanner lines. If you're running late, a TSA agent might direct you to the nearest available line, which could be the full-body scanner line. By showing up early, you can take your time to assess the security lines and choose the metal detector line instead. This simple strategy can significantly reduce your chances of being scanned.

Additionally, arriving early gives you more time to prepare for security checks. You can start unpacking your items and placing them in the plastic bins. If you appear busy and intent on getting your items organised, TSA agents are less likely to bother you or ask you to switch lines. They will see that it would be an inconvenience for you to move to another line with your hands full.

Furthermore, being early gives you the opportunity to carefully observe the security process and choose the most suitable line. Opt for a line that is far away from the full-body scanners. Even if you are initially in the metal detector line, being close to the full-body scanners makes it easier for TSA agents to pull you out and direct you to the scanner line. By staying away, you reduce the chances of being selected for a full-body scan.

Another benefit of showing up early is that you can take a more relaxed approach to security checks. If you are rushed or nervous, you might unintentionally make eye contact with TSA agents, which could increase your chances of being selected for a full-body scan. When you have ample time, you can maintain a calm and casual demeanour, reducing the likelihood of attracting attention.

Lastly, arriving early gives you a buffer in case there are unexpected delays or issues during security checks. If, for example, you set off the metal detector and need to go through additional screening, you won't feel as pressured or stressed knowing that you have some extra time up your sleeve. This can help you maintain a calm and cooperative attitude, which may work in your favour.

Pick a line far from scanners

Picking a line that is far away from the full-body scanners is a simple yet effective way to avoid being scanned at the airport. Here are some tips to help you do this:

• Arrive at the airport early: Giving yourself extra time allows you to be more selective with your choice of security line. If you arrive late, you may be rushed into a full-body scanner line by a TSA agent.
• Look for security lines at a distance from the scanners: The further away, the better. If you stay away, they can't easily pull you out of your line and into the scanner line.
• Avoid making eye contact with TSA agents: Maintaining minimal eye contact can help you stay under the radar. If you appear nervous or make eye contact with agents sizing you up, they may be more likely to pull you out of the metal detector line and into the full-body scanner line.
• Start unpacking your belongings early: If you're already in line and you begin unloading your items, pulling out your laptop, and putting your toiletries into the plastic bags, it will be more challenging to switch lines. You'll look busy and inconvenienced, and it will be harder for agents to move you to another line.
• Consider enrolling in expedited security programs: TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are government-run programs that allow members to use expedited security lanes, often without the need to remove shoes, laptops, belts, or jackets. These programs typically come with a fee, but certain credit cards may cover the cost as a member benefit.
• Purchase upgraded airfare with priority lane access: Some airlines offer upgraded tickets that grant access to exclusive security lanes, dedicated check-in lines, and priority boarding. This option may be available for a fee, or as a benefit for certain elite status members or credit card holders.

Avoid wearing metal

Metal detectors are a common feature of airport security, acting as a first line of defence to prevent prohibited items from compromising security. They work by generating a magnetic field that can identify metal objects on a person's body. When a metal object enters the detector's field, it disrupts the magnetic field and triggers an alarm.

To avoid setting off a metal detector, it is important to avoid wearing metal objects, such as jewellery, belts, or clothing with metal buttons, zips, or studs. Opt for clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or wool, and choose shoes without metal buckles or eyelets. You should also be mindful of items that may be in your pockets, such as keys, coins, or mobile phones, as these can trigger the alarm.

In addition to avoiding metal objects, you can consider wearing clothing that is loose-fitting and layered, as this can help to conceal the outline of any metal objects you may have on your body. It is also advisable to remove any metal objects that you are carrying, such as a laptop or tablet, from your bag and place them in a separate bin to be scanned.

While avoiding metal objects can help reduce the likelihood of setting off a metal detector, it is important to note that advanced technology and adjustable sensitivity settings of modern detectors may still detect some metal items. Additionally, certain medical implants, such as joint replacements or pacemakers, can also trigger metal detectors, but security protocols are in place to manage these situations.

Don't make eye contact

To avoid being pulled out of the metal detector line for a full-body scanner, it is best to avoid making eye contact with the TSA agents. Making eye contact with the TSA agents sizing you up and down increases the chances of being pulled out of the metal detector line for a full-body scan.

TSA agents are trained to look for nervous passengers, and making eye contact might make them suspicious. By not making eye contact, you can avoid unnecessary attention and lower your chances of being selected for a full-body scan.

Additionally, you can arrive at the airport early to reduce the risk of having to go through a full-body scanner. Choosing a security line that is far away from the full-body scanners is also advisable. Keeping your dressing style simple and avoiding wearing jewellery or heavy belts can also reduce the chances of being selected for a full-body scan.

Furthermore, you can start unpacking your belongings early and appear busy by unloading your laptop and toiletries. This strategy can make it seem inconvenient for TSA agents to move you to another line, especially if you have many items in your hands.

It is worth noting that full-body scanners are safe and use millimetre-wave technology, which does not emit harmful X-rays. However, if you still wish to avoid them, following the above-mentioned tips and avoiding eye contact with TSA agents can increase your chances of a smooth airport security experience.

Start unpacking your stuff early

Starting to unpack your things early is a great way to avoid being pulled aside for a full-body scan or pat-down at the airport. If you're already unloading your toiletries and laptop, you appear to be inconvenienced, and it would be a hassle to move you to another line. So, look busy and intent on getting your items into those plastic bins. No one will bother you.

To do this effectively, make sure you arrive at the airport early. This way, you can ensure you're in the metal detector line, rather than the full-body scanner line. If you show up late, a TSA agent might place you in the full-body scanner line. Also, choose a security line that is far away from the full-body scanners. Even if you're in the metal detector line, you could be pulled out and sent to the full-body scanner line if you're standing too close to it.

Additionally, avoid wearing complicated clothing or accessories that might set off the metal detectors. Don't wear jewellery, heavy belts, or other items that could attract attention. Keep your packing and dressing simple to reduce the likelihood of being pulled over for a chat about your necklace, for example.

Remember, the goal is to make it look like you'd be a hassle to move to another line. So, start unpacking early, and give yourself plenty of time to get through security without rushing.

Frequently asked questions