Wearing the wrong outfit can turn your airport experience into a nightmare.
Flying in 2025 comes with new tech, tighter security, and a lot less patience from TSA agents. What you wear might not seem like a big deal until you’re the one getting pulled aside, scanned twice, and searched in front of a crowd. And it’s not always the obvious things like metal or bulky jackets—some items just raise red flags you wouldn’t expect.
Avoiding fashion mistakes at the airport isn’t about looking stylish. It’s about getting through security smoothly, saving yourself time, and not standing out in the worst way. These days, TSA officers are quicker to react to certain outfits or accessories, and if you don’t know what to skip, your trip could start off on a stressful note. Here are 11 fashion choices you’ll want to rethink before heading to the airport this year.
1. Wearing heavy metal accessories.
Chunky jewelry, oversized belt buckles, and layered chains might make your outfit pop—but they’ll also light up that full-body scanner. TSA agents are trained to check anything that sets off an alarm, and metal is one of the most common triggers. Taking it off in line slows you down, and keeping it on just means you’ll get pulled aside. It’s especially frustrating when you think you’re through and then get called back for a second screening.
Even small items like metal hair clips or underwire bras can delay you. If you’re wearing them with other flagged items, it just adds to the pile of potential issues. Try sticking to plastic, fabric, or minimal accessories when you’re heading to the airport. You can always toss the bling back on after security. Looking low-maintenance at TSA doesn’t mean you can’t look sharp once you reach your gate, as mentioned by Mike Connors at Barton Associates.
2. Choosing lace-up boots or complicated shoes.
You might love your knee-high lace-ups or buckled boots, but they’re a time trap at security. TSA requires most travelers to remove their shoes unless they qualify for pre-check, and trying to untie a dozen loops or wiggle out of stiff leather slows everyone down—including you, as stated by authors at TSA.gov. That’s how you end up feeling rushed, flustered, and maybe even a little judged by the line behind you.
On top of that, some thick-soled or steel-toed shoes can trigger alarms. Anything that makes agents suspicious is going to earn you a pat-down or shoe scan. Keep it simple with slip-ons, low-profile sneakers, or even cozy travel loafers. You’ll breeze through security and avoid hopping around like you’re playing airport Twister trying to get your shoes back on.
3. Wearing too many layers or bulky coats.
Layering up might seem like a good strategy to avoid overweight baggage fees, but TSA sees it differently. Too many layers can make it difficult to see what’s underneath, and that makes agents suspicious. Bulky coats, hoodies over jackets, or even scarves wrapped around your neck can lead to extra screening. You might end up in a private room, asked to remove items one by one—not exactly the start to your trip you imagined.
It’s better to travel light and dress in thin, comfortable layers you can easily peel off if needed. Think zip-up sweaters or thin fleece that won’t cause a scene. You’ll still be warm on the plane, but you won’t be flagged for looking like you’re hiding something. Comfort and convenience beat stuffing your winter wardrobe into your outfit, as per writers at Vogue.
4. Sporting clothes with offensive language or graphics.
TSA isn’t in the mood for jokes—especially printed across your chest in bold letters. Wearing shirts with curse words, controversial slogans, or aggressive graphics can quickly catch the wrong kind of attention. You might not be breaking any laws, but TSA officers can still ask you to cover up or even change if they find your outfit inappropriate for public travel.
Worse, it could escalate. If a fellow passenger complains or an agent thinks your shirt is causing a disturbance, you might be pulled aside, questioned, or even denied boarding. It’s not about censorship—it’s about keeping the peace in an already tense environment. Save the edgy fashion statements for after your flight and stick to neutral, low-key clothes until you’re off the plane.
5. Packing your pockets full of stuff.
Loaded pockets are a TSA agent’s red flag. If you’re walking through with bulges in every direction, you’re practically asking for a pat-down. It’s not just about coins or keys—it’s phones, pens, chargers, snacks, even tissues. TSA prefers passengers to empty their pockets before the scanner, but if you’ve got things stashed everywhere, you’re setting yourself up for delays.
It also increases your chance of leaving something behind. Think about how easy it is to drop a receipt or forget a USB stick. Use a crossbody bag, fanny pack, or travel pouch for your small essentials. It keeps your pockets flat, your items organized, and your time in the security line much less chaotic.
6. Wearing clothing with too much bling.
Jeans with metal studs, bedazzled jackets, and sparkle-covered tops aren’t just an early 2000s fashion crime—they’re a TSA nuisance. All those tiny metal decorations can confuse the scanner and look suspicious on the screen. You might think it’s harmless fashion, but TSA agents don’t have time to sort through style choices when they see something odd.
If your outfit lights up the screen, you’ll be stopped for extra inspection. That means slowing down your journey and getting way more attention than you bargained for. If you want to shine, do it after you land. Stick with basics for travel and leave the sparkle for your final destination. You’ll thank yourself when you’re not the one standing with your arms up for five awkward minutes.
7. Dressing in military or law enforcement gear.
Wearing fatigues, tactical pants, or anything resembling a police uniform can set off alarms—literally and figuratively. TSA agents are extra alert when someone looks like they might be impersonating a service member. Even if you’re a veteran or simply love the style, it’s best to avoid anything that looks official or like it could carry hidden gear.
These types of outfits can also confuse passengers or create tension if someone thinks you’re carrying a weapon. TSA’s job is to keep things safe and smooth, so drawing attention with authority-style clothing makes their job harder. Instead, wear comfortable travel clothes that don’t make a statement. You can show your pride in quieter, more respectful ways once you’re through.
8. Wearing clothes that are too revealing.
You might want to be comfy, but showing too much skin at the airport can create problems. TSA doesn’t have a dress code, but they do take note of clothing that’s overly revealing. Crop tops, see-through fabrics, or ultra-short shorts can lead to extra attention, especially if it looks like you’re trying to avoid hiding anything.
It’s not about modesty—it’s about how hard it is to conduct a proper scan or pat-down. Agents don’t want to be accused of inappropriate behavior, and travelers don’t want to feel singled out. It’s just easier all around if your outfit gives some coverage and structure. Go for loose, breathable fabrics that don’t cling or raise eyebrows, and save the beachwear for the beach.
9. Wearing clothes that make you sweat.
If your outfit makes you overheat, you’re going to get noticed. Sweaty passengers can appear nervous or suspicious, even when they’re just uncomfortable. TSA agents are trained to spot signs of stress, and excess perspiration is one of them. Thick materials, heavy jackets, or synthetic fabrics that don’t breathe can turn a short wait into a meltdown.
On top of that, being sweaty makes everything harder—slipping off shoes, digging through bags, answering questions calmly. The last thing you want is to look like you’re hiding something when you’re just hot and cranky. Dress in layers you can adjust and stick with breathable cotton or moisture-wicking fabric. Stay cool, stay calm, and you’ll move through faster.
10. Sporting tons of visible tech.
Wearing multiple smartwatches, headphones, or gear strapped across your chest makes you look more like a tech display than a traveler. TSA sees this kind of outfit and assumes there’s more to inspect. Wires, batteries, and digital devices often require separate screening, and if you’re covered in them, you’re going to be asked to explain.
It’s not just annoying—it slows everything down and makes you a target for extra questions. Keep your tech in one organized pouch or wear only what’s necessary. A single smartwatch and earbuds? Fine. A belt lined with gadgets? Not so much. Travel light when it comes to electronics, and you’ll stay off the radar.
11. Going all out with fragrance or lotion.
You might love your signature scent, but TSA lines aren’t the place to bathe in cologne or slather on heavily scented lotion. Strong smells can make agents and nearby travelers uncomfortable or even trigger allergic reactions. It’s not a fashion issue in the usual sense, but it’s still something that could get you flagged for closer observation.
Agents might interpret overwhelming scents as a way to mask other odors, which raises suspicion. And if someone complains, you could be delayed or asked to step aside. Keep things mild and fresh—save the perfume for later and skip any overpowering creams or sprays. Looking good doesn’t require a fog of fragrance when you’re passing through security.