Last Updated on March 13, 2023
Key Takeaways
- You can bring small pins like safety pins or badge pins on a plane in unrestricted quantities in hand luggage
- Even though pins are generally allowed they may be subject to additional screening at the security checkpoint if they trigger an alarm
- For large pins the final decision rests with the TSA officer at airport security, any pin large enough to be considered a dangerous weapon would not be permitted on the plane
- You can pack pins in checked luggage but make sure they are securely wrapped to protect luggage inspectors from injury
TSA Pins Rules
The Transportation Security Administration screen hand luggage at airport security checkpoints to make sure dangerous weapons or sharp objects are not brought on to planes.
Here’s what the TSA says about safety pins:
The TSA doesn’t consider small safety pins, decorative pins, badge pins etc to be large enough to be dangerous and so you can bring pins on a plane in carry-on bags or pinned to bags or clothes.
Keep in mind that the final decision is always taken by the TSA agent who inspects your luggage. If any pin sets off a security alarm when going through airport security the TSA security team will take a look at the pin. Only exceptionally large pins that were considered weapons and could be used to stab someone would not be permitted on board the plane.
Wearing Pins Through Airport Security
It’s also worth remembering that any metal pins or metal objects worn on your body or metallic hair pins could trigger an alarm when you walk through the metal detector. Plastic hair pins are a better choice to wear when traveling to avoid any pat-downs and delays. It might be a good idea to remove any decorative pins from clothing and store them in your carry-on luggage before walking through the metal detector.
Packing Pins In Checked Luggage
You can also freely pack pins in checked baggage. Make sure that baggage handlers cannot injure themselves on any sharp points if the are inspecting your checked bags. Pins packed in checked luggage should be securely stored.
Still Unsure? Ask The TSA
You can reach out the the TSA on Twitter to ask about any specific type of pin that you might be bringing on your trip.
Laura asked about bringing enamel pins:
The TSA replied that enamel pins are allowed through the security checkpoint and may be attached to your carry-on bag.
This passenger wanted to bring Disney pins:
The TSA answered that “decorative pins are good to go in carry-on bags”.
Another traveler asked about hat pins:
In this case the TSA social media team advised that larger hat pins are generally allowed in carry-on bags but could be stopped at airport security if they were considered to be too large and dangerous.
The TSA advised Virginia to wear non-metalic hair pins when walking through the metal detector at security to avoid a pat-down.
Lapel pins were given the green light:
Bobby pins and button pins were also approved:
And collectible pins were also given the okay, even if they are pinned to the outside of your backpack:
Overall, the TSA does not consider safety pins, button pins etc to be dangerous and they can be brought on a plane in either carry-on or checked luggage.