The most common form of traveling to Disney World is flying to Orlando. The two closest airports to Disney World are Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Sanford International Airport (SFB).

Regardless of where you fly into or out of, you’ll have to go through security to get on your flight. To make this as smooth and as easy as possible, it’s a good idea to be aware of the rules ahead of time and to listen clearly to the TSA officers working to keep everyone safe. We’ve compiled a list of six things the TSA officers likely wish you would stop doing to make the process better for everyone, including yourself, especially at an airport as busy as MCO.
Removing Your Shoes
As of July 12th, 2025, you no longer need to take off your shoes when going through security at all U.S airports. It has been just under 20 years since nobody had to remove their shoes. Since 2006, it has been a requirement unless you are part of TSA PreCheck.

As long as you remember you no longer have to scramble to get your shoes off and back on again, this new rule will make your experience much smoother! Real IDs are also now required to pass through security checkpoints, so be sure to have yours (or an equivalent) ready to go as you approach the checkpoint.
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Bringing a Full Water Bottle in Line
While the shoes-off rule has been removed, you still cannot take liquids with you through security. So before heading to the checkpoint, find a bathroom or water fountain and dump out that water!

This rule applies to any and all liquids, so be ready to go or risk having to throw out anything when you approach scanners.
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Smuggling Snapping Turtles in Your Bra
This might sound odd, and that’s because it is. But it’s not unheard of! According to CBS News, a passenger at the Miami International Airport was recently caught attempting to smuggle two turtles in her bra.

It’s generally a bad idea to try to smuggle anything through airport security. And living wild animals hidden inside your clothing is probably a really bad idea.
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Leaving Your Keys and Phones in Your Pockets
All electronics must come out of your pockets and go through the scanners when you pass through airport security. This is a rule we generally all know, but it’s VERY easy to forget.

Make your trip through security quicker (and less frustrating for those behind you) by double-checking your pockets!
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Forget To Take Off Your Belt
The rule above applies to your belt holding your pants up, too. It’s something we simply don’t think about, but depending on which airport you’re at, you may have to remove it.

If you’re not sure what you need to take out of your bag, out of your pockets, or off your clothes, ask the TSA officer nearest you. They usually are willing to help you out (quickly).
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Wait for Them To Tell You What To Do
There is a difference between asking the TSA officers a question when you’re not positive about what to do and simply not paying attention or actively trying to get through the checkpoint swiftly. If the person in front of you has gone, you’re next. Know the expectations; take your electronics out of your bag and pockets, get your bag on the conveyor, and step through the detector.

Make sure you’re paying attention and taking initiative to get through. Many people are in a hurry to get to their flight on time, and everyone just wants to get through the checkpoint and on with their lives.

We hope these tips help make your airport security experience smoother and less stressful, so you can get on with your fun and exciting Disney World vacation.
In the meantime, keep following AllEars!
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