A2English

Going Through Security

Use these phrases when you go through airport security and follow the officer's instructions.

Key Phrases

Voice
Asking about electronics · 3 ways to say it

Laptop out?

casual

Say this quickly to the officer.

Do I need to take out my laptop?

neutral

Ask this before you use a plastic bin.

Should I remove my computer from the bag?

polite

Ask this careful question if you are not sure.

Officer instructions: Liquids

Do you have any liquids in your bag?

neutral

The officer wants to know about water or shampoo.

Officer instructions: Clothes

Take off your shoes and belt, please.

neutral

A common instruction before you walk through the machine.

Officer instructions: Scanner

Step into the scanner and raise your hands.

neutral

Follow this instruction inside the large body scanner.

Explaining liquids · 2 ways to say it

I just have a small water bottle.

casual

Say this quickly about a drink in your bag.

I have a small bottle of water in my bag.

neutral

Tell the officer about the water in your bag.

Explaining an alarm

Sorry, my belt made the noise.

neutral

Say this if the machine makes a loud noise.

Asking for your bag · 2 ways to say it

Can I get my carry-on bag now?

neutral

US English. Ask this when you finish.

Can I get my hand luggage now?

neutral

UK English. Ask this when you finish.

Practice Dialogue

Security Officer
Next, please. Put your bags in the bins.
Traveler
Do I need to take out my laptop?
Security Officer
Yes, laptop out. And take off your shoes and belt.
Traveler
Okay. Can I keep my jacket on?
Security Officer
No, please put it in a bin. Now step into the scanner.
Traveler
Like this? With my hands up?
Security Officer
Yes. Wait for the beep. Okay, you can step out.
Traveler
Thanks. Can I get my carry-on bag now?
Security Officer
Yes, it is on the table.

More Travel & Transport (A2)

← All English survival phrases