A pilot’s wife has shared some handy airport security tips for anyone asked to remove their shoes – and it’s all about being prepared with a few simple travel essentials
No one wants to get mucky feet when walking through airport security(Image: interstid via Getty Images)
Being asked to remove your shoes at the airport is a fairly routine occurrence. The extra checks largely stem from an incident in 2001, when a passenger attempted to conceal explosives in his shoes while boarding a flight.
While it remains an important safety measure – making it far easier for airport security to check footwear for items that could be smuggled through – it can be rather tiresome for those of us simply heading off on a well-earned holiday.
There’s no denying it feels a bit awkward padding through security in just your socks or bare feet. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also leave your feet dirty, given the sheer number of people passing through the area.
Fortunately, a pilot’s wife named Laurie has some handy advice to share. The travel expert, based in Houston in the US, regularly posts useful content on her popular Instagram page.
She has put forward two top tips for when you find yourself faced with this security request. So here’s what you need to do to prepare yourself:
1. Clean your feet with an antibacterial wipe
Most travellers don’t have access to showers at the airport – and trying to use a sink might attract some rather odd looks from fellow passengers.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t freshen up. Packing antibacterial wipes in your hand luggage could prove to be a real game-changer.
You can swiftly clean your feet if you’re required to walk through security barefoot, taking just a matter of seconds without holding up your journey.
Even better, antibacterial wipes serve other purposes too. Many passengers like to wipe down surfaces on the plane to avoid picking up any unwanted germs.
We recommend giving aeroplane windows a swift wipe if you’re planning to rest against them.
Other commonly touched surfaces – such as TV screens, remote controls or tray tables – may also require a quick clean. So don’t forget to pack those wipes!
2. Pack an extra pair of socks
Even when wearing socks, the thought of treading over a grimy floor can be quite unpleasant. It’s also less than ideal if you’re going to be travelling in the same socks all day, meaning they’ll stay dirty throughout.
Travel expert Laurie shares two tips for handling this situation effectively. She recommends: “Wear a pair of ratty old socks through the [security] line and toss them when done.”
If chucking them isn’t possible, Laurie suggests bringing along a spare pair with a small plastic bag. You can then change into clean socks, pop the dirty ones into the bag, and wash them once you’ve reached your destination.
Laurie’s advice has proved popular online, racking up over 1,100 likes since being posted, with many voicing their gratitude.
One user commented: “Always the best tips!”. Meanwhile, another agreed: “Very good tips.”