TSA spokeswoman Lisa Farbstein said those traveling during this time should comply with the agency’s rules and guidelines on what air passengers are allowed to bring to security checkpoints to avoid mishaps. delays. And if you suffer a TSA setback, she said how to proceed will be up to the discretion of TSA officers.
Here are some TSA-approved tips and tricks to give you a smooth airport experience before the holidays.
Make sure your fake blood is 3.4 ounces or less
No matter how creative your costume, Farbstein suggests not wearing it through TSA, especially if it might trigger a body scanner alarm and result in a pat-down. This also includes your pets and children.
As for candy, you can bring whatever treats your heart desires as long as they meet TSA guidelines.
Candy or liquid or gel based items (think fake blood for your costume) in carry-on baggage are subject to The TSA 3-1-1 rule and must be in containers 3.4 ounces or less, Farbstein said.
Anything pureed or spreadable, like pumpkin butter or apple butter, would also fall under the TSA rules on liquids and gels. But a whole pumpkin is fair game.
To verify your identity, TSA agents need a clear view of your face to validate your identification when you arrive at the document verification podium. Anything that may obstruct this view, such as masks or makeup, should be removed to match that of your documents.
Although colored paint is not explicitly prohibited, it can certainly cause delays when going through checkpoints. Officers may need you to modify, remove, or even wash off any paint so you can pass safely.
“Even if you’re having your face painted, we wouldn’t want to do that, especially if you’ve taken a lot of care and taken the time to do a really good job on your face,” Farbstein said. “It would be a shame to have to wash it to make sure your face matches your ID photo.” We don’t want there to be any delays for you.
Check the pitchforks and swords
The best rule to use when accessing the accessories you can bring through TSA to accessorize your costumes this year is simply to use common sense, Farbstein said.
#Halloween Costume Travel Tip: Does your costume come with weapon accessories? Although some of these items are only allowed in checked baggage, you can NEVER bring replica explosives into the airport. These inert grenades, pictured below, were intercepted at @fly_okc on October 11, 2023. pic.twitter.com/fr2gFHzqJX
-TSA (@TSA) October 24, 2023
Stay away from objects that can be perceived as weapons – think pitchforks, toy guns or swords. But there’s no harm in packing your artificial skeleton or favorite dolls in your carry-on luggage. And for witches traveling between now and October 31, leave those brooms with your black cat and your spell books at home.
“Hey, you’re flying on a plane,” she said. “You don’t need to fly on a broom.”