Air passengers hoping to add some festive flair to their journey this Christmas have been given a stark warning: leave the glitter at home. The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a seasonal reminder that wearing sparkly clothing could see you singled out for extra screening, potentially delaying your trip.
Why Sparkles Cause Security Headaches
The agency took to social media to deliver its advice with a touch of humour, stating: "TSA PSA: The body scanners don’t love sparkles." It elaborated, "We don’t want to dull your holiday shine but we don’t recommend wearing your sparkly holiday sweater to the airport." The problem lies in the materials often used in festive knitwear.
Sequins, metallic thread, or other reflective decorations can interfere with the advanced imaging technology used at checkpoints. The TSA uses millimeter wave scanners and walk-through metal detectors to screen passengers. These systems are designed to detect both metallic and non-metallic threats concealed under clothing, and decorative sparkles can sometimes trigger an alarm, necessitating a pat-down.
Travellers Share Their Experiences
The public response to the warning was mixed, with some questioning the specifics and others sharing their own unfortunate encounters with airport fashion. "Sparkles or sequins? Cause those are two different things darling," one user queried. Another protested, "I thought we were supposed to dress up to fly."
Several travellers recounted tales of sartorial regret. One person laughed, "Did this with a metallic scarf once. Never again. I think the scanner lit up like a Christmas tree based on the pat down I got." Another simply branded the scanners "grinches."
The TSA also notes that passengers may be asked to remove bulky outerwear, which can include large festive sweaters, cardigans, hoodies, and light jackets, to ensure a clear scan.
Holiday Travel Tips: Gifts, Globes, and Poinsettias
Alongside the sartorial guidance, the TSA has released broader advice for the busy Christmas travel period. A key recommendation concerns wrapped presents. The agency strongly advises using gift bags or boxes with removable lids instead of fully wrapped packages. This allows officers to inspect contents if necessary without having to unwrap your carefully prepared gift.
Another common seasonal item, snow globes, must be packed in checked baggage if they contain more than 100ml of liquid. Those fitting the 100ml rule must go in your clear, sealed liquids bag.
For those carrying festive flora, the TSA offered reassurance. The agency confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that live plants, including popular poinsettias, are permitted on domestic flights within the US. However, travellers should check with their specific airline regarding size allowances for carry-on items to ensure plants will fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
By planning your airport outfit and packing with these tips in mind, you can help ensure your holiday travel is filled with cheer, not security delays.
