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TSA Urges Travelers To Skip Shiny Holiday Sweaters To Speed Christmas Security Lines

The agency says glitter, sequins or metallic threads can trigger body scanners, leading to extra searches that cause delays.

Overview

  • Body-scanner alerts are more likely with sequins, glitter and metallic-thread fabrics, prompting manual checks during peak holiday travel.
  • This is guidance rather than a ban, with shoes, belts and clothing allowed in carry-on or checked bags, and TSA’s site listing items such as hairpins, heated jackets and helmets.
  • Officers may ask travelers to remove outer layers such as windbreakers, vests, light jackets, pullovers, oversized sweaters, cardigans or ponchos for clearer screening.
  • TSA advises packing luggage in neat layers to help officers see contents more easily and reduce the need for secondary inspections.
  • The 3-1-1 liquids limit remains in effect, and some airports like Orlando International and JFK no longer require removing the liquids bag, though procedures can vary by location.