What to Bring (and What to Leave in the Car) When Visiting Lois M. De Berry
Visiting Lois M. DeBerry goes smoother when you arrive with only what you're allowed to carry. Pack light, clear security faster, and avoid getting turned away at the door.
For visitation at Lois M. DeBerry, bring just two things: your photo ID and your car keys (or key fob). Leave everything else behind. All visitors go through multiple security screenings, including a body scanner, and staff enforce the "no extra items" rule strictly.
Left in Car
- ✓ Phones
- ✓ Smart watches
- ✓ Wallets
- ✓ Firearms
- ✓ Weapons
- ✓ Drugs
- ✓ Alcohol
- ✓ Anything related to smoking or vaping (smoking/vaping isn’t allowed on state property)
One more reason to keep belongings locked up: vehicle searches happen routinely. If something prohibited is in your car, it can create serious problems. Do a quick sweep before you park and head inside.
Bringing a baby? A small set of essentials is allowed: diapers, formula powder, and unopened sealed baby food (as needed). Pack them in a clear plastic bag so staff can screen them quickly - saves you from repacking at the entrance.
Dress code is enforced for visitors of any age. The easiest way to avoid a wasted trip? Dress simple and conservative. Spandex and spandex-type fabrics aren't allowed, and neither is anything transparent or translucent. Skip sleeveless shirts and blouses, and avoid clothing that exposes your chest or midriff. Camouflage attire and bandanas are prohibited too. Keep jewelry minimal - "excessive jewelry" can get you stopped at screening. For footwear, leave the flip flops, shower shoes, and steel/composite-toed shoes at home.
Tip: If you’re unsure whether something will pass, change into a safer outfit before you leave home. It’s much easier than getting turned away after you’ve already arrived.
Expect a structured entry process. All visitors pass through multiple security screenings, including a body scanner, and vehicle searches may also be conducted. Build in extra time so you're not rushing - moving calmly through screening and following staff directions keeps the line moving.
Quick prep: Have your photo ID and car keys ready, and keep any permitted baby items in a clear plastic bag. Fewer loose items means fewer delays at screening.
Previsit Checklist
- ✓ Bring only your photo ID and car keys/key fob into visitation
- ✓ Leave phones, smart watches, wallets, and other personal items locked in your secured vehicle
- ✓ Do not bring firearms, weapons, drugs, or alcohol onto property
- ✓ No smoking or vaping on state property
- ✓ If you’re bringing baby items (diapers, formula powder, unopened sealed baby food), place them in a clear plastic bag
- ✓ Follow the dress code: no spandex/see-through items, no sleeveless or midriff-exposing clothing, no camouflage or bandanas, no excessive jewelry, and no flip flops/shower shoes/steel or composite-toed shoes
- ✓ Expect multiple security screenings, including a body scanner
- ✓ Be prepared for routine vehicle searches
- ✓ If you need a vending machine debit card, purchase or reload it in the lobby before entering the visitation area
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