As millions of Britons gear up for summer getaways, travel experts are urging holidaymakers to avoid bringing certain items through airport security to help reduce delays and make their journey smoother.
Frequent traveller and TikTok content creator Melanie (@comehangout_melanie) has shared four common items she says can trigger unnecessary security checks, slowing down the process for passengers already dealing with long queues and packed terminals.
Avoid Metal Accessories
First on Melanie’s list is metal. While essential for detecting dangerous objects, airport scanners often flag harmless metal items such as hair clips, belts, or loose coins. These can result in additional screening or personal checks, which contribute to longer wait times.
“It’s a pain,” Melanie admitted in her video, but she recommends leaving unnecessary metal accessories at home or in checked luggage to avoid delays.
Rethink Your Footwear
Another common source of hold-ups is footwear. Melanie cautioned against wearing shoes that are difficult to take on or off, especially at busy security lines.
“Most airport security—though not all—will make you remove your shoes,” she said. “There’s often nowhere to sit down to take them off or put them back on. If people are in a rush, you’re going to have a very annoyed line behind you.”
Choosing easy-to-remove footwear, she suggests, can help keep lines moving and reduce stress.
Preparation Is Key
Melanie’s advice comes as UK airports anticipate one of the busiest travel seasons in recent years. With heightened demand and ongoing staffing challenges, even minor issues at security checkpoints can lead to significant delays.
Travellers are advised to review airport guidelines before departure and to pack with efficiency and security in mind.
