In order to enter the four theme parks and Disney Springs, you must go through a security checkpoint.

Disney World’s security uses special metal detectors that allow you to walk through with your bag. This is to help with efficiency by getting rid of manual bag checks, although if your bag does set off the detector, you will be asked to go to a separate line where a Disney World Security Cast Member will hand-check your bag. To avoid the dreaded extra line, here are four important things to keep in mind before going through security at Disney World.
Disney World’s security has changed over the years as the secured areas of the park have started to expand. For example, if you are staying at a Monorail hotel and want to resort hop, you will have to go through the security screening checkpoint each time you board the Monorail as it is now part of the Magic Kingdom secured area. Let’s get into what you need to know before going through Disney World’s security checkpoints.

Check Your Park Bag for Metal
Sometimes, your bag can set off the metal detector. Certain bags may have metal in their handles. Even if there is nothing in your bag that is metal, you will still have to get your bag checked. So, if you would like to avoid an extra step in the security process, make sure your park bag is free of metal handles or other metals that may set off the detector.

Take Out Metal Items
Although Disney World’s metal detectors are more high-tech compared to classic metal detectors, they may still go off if you have specific items in your bag. When we go through security, we take the following items out:
- Umbrellas
- Metal water bottles like Hyrdoflasks, Stanley Cups, and Owalas
- Portable chargers (FuelRods are usually okay to keep in your bag)
- Sunglass cases containing metal

Simply take these items out of your bag and hold them out in front of you when you walk through the metal detector. Make sure to hold them away from your body and leave space between you and the person in front of you.

Show Up Early
If you plan to rope drop a park, security lines may get backed up due to crowds of people arriving to be the first in the park. If you want to make sure you are in the park at open, it is a good idea to give yourself extra time to make it through security.

This is especially important for the Transportation and Ticket Center, as you will have to go through multiple steps before arriving at the front gates of Magic Kingdom or EPCOT if you choose to take the Monorail from the TTC.

Check Your Coolers for Prohibited Items
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks into the parks, but certain items are not allowed. They include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Glass containers
- Loose ice (ice in baggies is okay, just not loose in the cooler or you can bring in reusable ice packs.)

If your cooler or bag containing food or beverages sets off the metal detector, make sure to inform the security Cast Member that your bag contains food so they can take the proper care when checking your bag.

While it is not always guaranteed, these four rules can help you avoid getting stopped and going for a secondary security screening. For more Disney tips and all the latest theme park news, make sure to continue to follow along with AllEars.
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