#TuesdayTravelTip – Dressing to the Airport

When traveling, my dressing to the airport would usually depend on my mood, sometimes I be feeling all gorgeous and jump into and heels, other times I keep it corporate casual and wear a blazer and peg leg pants, most times I keep it casual and wear a tank/tee, a jeans and flats. However after a couple of airport security hassles, I decide I try to play the following rules.

1. Minimal Accessories

I try as much as possible to keep my accessories to the minimal. You don’t want the metal detector buzzing at you all cos you decided to unnecessarily wear heavy duty metals as accessories. No jokes I have been asked to remove my chunky necklace before at the security point even before going through the machine at Addis Ababa.  I felt the officer was being cynical but to avoid any delay as I had a connecting flight, I removed it and moved on.

2. Lose the Belt

We all know that you gotta remove your belts when passing through a metal detector, and its usually a funny sight when I see people especially guys with lose hanging jeans going back and forth through the detector. Why not avoid this altogether and wear trousers or skirts that fit and does not require having to use a belt.

3. No Shoelaces

Shoes also go into the metal detector at almost every check point and having to fumble with your shoelaces before and after going through the machine isn’t really cool, especially when you have a very long queue or cranky passengers who are late for their flights. Instead, wear your most comfortable shoes which you can easily slip in and out of. This is not the time for strappy sandals or those fashionable pair of sneakers you own and love to show off. When in doubt, opt for a pair of classic ballet flats for the ladies and a pair of loafers for the guys as they easy to slip on and are super comfortable.

4. Ditch the Hat

You might want to look fashionable and cool to the airport or bring out the fashionista in you but trust me, its not always a good idea when it comes to hat, caps and hair coverings unless of course its a religious thing. I had once cleared my stuff and was headed to the waiting lounge one day when an officer called me back and asked me to remove my cap like I had drugs on my head or something. Was a bit embarrassing but hell yeah! I had to, I had no choice. To avoid that, better to ditch the hat.

5. No Liquids or Gels

The content of your handbag or carry-on luggage is also as important as what you wear. Body Spray, Tooth Paste, Water and other forms of liquids and gels are hardly allowed in a Carry On Luggage or handbag. It is better to have them checked in with your luggage. It would also be quite stressful and time wasting if you have to have to return and check them in especially if your bag has been carted away .

 

What other tips do you recommend to avoid airport hassles when dressing to the airport. I would love to know 🙂