Here’s the funny part. While they might reject your trusty backpack, they’ll happily let you carry in a plastic bag from a souvenir shop (half full, of course) or a small shopping bag from outside. The logic is inconsistent, but it’s about perception: a backpack looks “suspicious” because it could hide a go-pro or snacks, but a tote bag looks harmless. So, if you’re stubborn, bring a cloth tote instead of a backpack. It’s like playing dress-up for the security theater.
And yes, they do check for outside food and drinks. The official line is “no outside food or beverages,” but if you have a sealed water bottle (up to one liter), you’re usually fine. Think of it as the loophole code: unopened plastic bottle = okay; half-empty reusable bottle from your car = sent back to pack. It’s bizarre, I know.
