Consider Carefully Before Wearing These Accessories to the Airport

Though most small pieces of jewelry, such as rings or understated earrings, make it through airport security checks without a problem, you could be stopped if you’re wearing multiple metal pieces or overly chunky jewelry. Too many items, such a stacked bangles, or oversized accessories like statement necklaces or watches could set off the metal detector and you may be asked to remove them. 

Not only can that be a stressful, it could also add several minutes to your time spent in security. That means less time browsing the stores or grabbing a pre-flight bite, and you could even run the risk of missing your flight.

This same rule applies to anything else made of metal on your body. Chunky hair clips and barrettes, brooches, or even chains attached to your clothing could also pose a problem for the metal detector.

Even at the best of times, claw clips can be uncomfortable. But when you’re trying to catch some Z’s at the airport or getting comfy on the plane? They can be seriously frustrating. 

Claw clips can press into your scalp when you’re in a seat with a headrest, and you’ll probably struggle to find a comfortable position while traveling. Not ideal, even on short haul flights. Claw clips can also drop out easily depending on your hair type, and when you’re rushing through the airport trying to find your gate while carrying multiple bags, you probably won’t have a spare hand (or moment) to fix it.

If you prefer your hair pulled back on travel days, try a comfy low ponytail instead, or a plastic clip that sit flush to your head. Or why not try one of our ponytail alternatives that are way less damaging for your locks?

Though oversized hats can be a cute (and necessary) vacation accessory to protect against UV rays, they’re better in your bag than on your head. That’s because you’ll repeatedly be removing hats at the airport. 

Most security officials will ask you to take anything on your head off to check your passport photo, while automatic passport scanners also require accessories around the face, such as hats and glasses, to be removed for security and accuracy. That means you’ll spend most of the time carrying your sun hat around, alongside your other bags.

If your hat is super oversized, there’s also a chance it won’t fit in the security trays. That could cause a whole other headache during an already stressful time. Then there’s the issue of where you put it when you board. Though it could be stored in the overhead locker, you run the risk of your fabulous accessory getting crushed or dirty under other people’s belongings. The same goes for leaving it on your lap, where it’s vulnerable to getting messy from in-flight food or drinks.

If you’re into quirky, personalized jewelry, you may own pieces that contain liquid. Think bodily fluids, a la Machine Gun Kelly’s necklace containing Megan Fox’s blood, or floating liquid glitter. Many airports still require liquids to be scanned separately during the TSA check, so you may have to remove it. Not only can that slow you down, you’re also running the risk of losing your delicate jewelry, or it becoming damaged or tangled, in the scanner.

As each airline has different rules and regulations, and airports can be strict on what’s allowed to fly, unusual pieces may also catch the attention of security. Jewelry containing drops of blood or anything that looks like blood could raise particular suspicion. It’s not worth the risk of it being confiscated, particularly if it has a sentimental meaning.

Though statement belts, including waist belts, made a big comeback in spring 2024, we still wouldn’t recommend wearing one to the airport. Security agents will likely ask you to remove your belt at the screening, as the buckle could set off the metal detector. If you need it to keep your pants up, it may be worth the extra security step. But most waist belts are simply a style statement, so it’s worth considering if it’s worth the hassle and potential delay for something that doesn’t have a practical use.

Equally, waist belts aren’t always comfortable. Despite some being made from stretchy material, they’re designed to cinch the waist without falling down. That means they can restrict movement and press down on your middle. When you’re on a flight, especially if you’re traveling long haul, having something tight around your torso won’t be comfortable.