Airport security screening has been around for more than two decades in the U.S. Travelers are aware of the basic rules for carry-on baggage: you can only bring so many liquids, and certain dangerous items are not allowed.
However, some guidelines get murky. An item that’s technically allowed might result in extra time at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security check.
For example, travelers have previously reported additional screening for things like creatine powder, a pickleball paddle, or even something they can’t control, like a certain body type or a baby.
Recently, a woman on TikTok revealed there’s a new thing that might get you in trouble with TSA. Surprisingly, it’s a clothing item most of us own.
What Clothing Does TSA Consider ‘Inappropriate’?
TikTok creator @fruityswagmoney shared a short clip of herself looking confounded.
“The tsa agent told me i am ‘not dressed appropriately today’ because i wore a comfort hoodie to the airport,” she wrote in the video’s text overlay. “ITS WINTER IN THE MIDWEST. ITS COLD. im sorry i love my hoodie bro.”
For context, Comfrt is an American clothing brand that creates “soothing, slightly weighted clothing” for “comfort and calm.”
“@Comfrt please sponsor me i was in tears they were so rude bc i had a hoodie on,” she added in the caption. Her video got over 498,100 views.
The Traveler Shares More Details In The Comments
In the comments section, viewers made it clear they didn’t find @fruityswagmoney’s story believable.
“Nope didn’t happen,” one user wrote.
The TikToker responded to that comment, writing, “Did happen. he then told me i’d need a pat down after i went through the metal detectors bc i didnt have a tshirt underneath.”
“Didnt get a pat down tho bc the other lady said i was good,” she continued.
“I always wear a hoodie, it’s cold on planes,” another commenter shared.
“Airlines made flying horrible,” a third user chimed in. “When they bring back a good experience, we will all dress better. Til then pjs and whatever else I want.”
Does TSA Have Any Rules About Hoodies?
While the agency doesn’t technically issue a dress code, it doesn’t recommend certain items because they may interfere with screening devices.
TSA’s “screening technology” section of its online security screening guide specifically mentions bulkier clothing. It states that anyone wearing an outer garment or bulky clothing will be asked to remove it.
Additionally, it defines bulky clothing as “oversize pullover hoodies, large sweaters, cardigans, and ponchos.”
The agency also clarified that if a traveler isn’t willing to remove an outer garment or bulky item, they may be subject to additional screening.
Essentially, wearing a hoodie isn’t prohibited. It’s just a good idea to wear something underneath so you can take it off if a TSA agent asks you to do so. Otherwise, you may be subject to a pat-down.
What To Do If You’re Not Sure Whether An Item Is Allowed
The TSA has a pretty extensive list of items travelers can bring in both their carry-on and checked baggage.
There, you can even find niche items such as an airbrush makeup machine, non-inflated balloons, and fertilizer.
If an item isn’t listed on their website, it recommends contacting them through X, Facebook Messenger, Apple Business Chat, or text message to get clarification.
@fruityswagmoney @Comfrt pls sponsor me i was in tears they were so rude bc i had a hoodie on. #fyp #tsa #airport
BroBible has reached out to TSA via email and @fruityswagmoney through TikTok messages for comment.