TSA Warns Halloween Costumes Could Slow Airport Security

Travelers heading to the airport in costume this Halloween may want to rethink that plan before stepping into the security line. The Transportation Security Administration says costumes are generally allowed, but certain accessories can create screening problems and lead to delays.

Masks, elaborate face coverings, heavy costume makeup and metal components are among the items most likely to complicate the checkpoint process, according to TSA guidance. If a traveler's face cannot be verified during screening, officers may ask that person to remove part of a costume or wipe away makeup so identity can be confirmed.

That issue may become more common as facial recognition technology is used more widely at airports. Keith Jeffries, vice president of K2 Security Screening Group and a former federal security director for TSA at Los Angeles International Airport, said Halloween-style makeup can interfere with recognition systems and slow the process.

"If you're wearing … Halloween costume-style makeup, and it can't recognize you, that's going to create some challenges," Jeffries told Fox News Digital.

Costume props can create even bigger concerns, especially when they look like weapons or other banned items. TSA guidance says replica explosives, including fake bombs and grenades, are not allowed in either carry-on bags or checked luggage. Travelers should avoid packing those items altogether.

Other props that resemble weapons, such as fake knives, swords, guns and pitchforks, should not be placed in carry-on bags, experts say. Some of those items may be allowed in checked luggage depending on the specific object, but they can still draw scrutiny during the screening process.

Jeffries said he saw many similar situations during his 20 years with the TSA. He recalled travelers attempting to bring replicas of "Lucille," the barbed-wire-covered baseball bat from The Walking Dead, through airport security. He said such an item could not pass through the checkpoint, though it could be transported in checked luggage.

Why costumes can trigger extra screening

Even when a costume does not include a prohibited item, it can still slow screening. Outfits with a lot of metal may set off security equipment and lead to additional checks, Jeffries said.

"That's going to cause all kinds of challenges and just slow the whole process down," he said.

Makeup can also be an issue for travelers who pack it in carry-on bags. TSA's standard liquid restrictions still apply during holiday travel. Liquid makeup in carry-ons generally must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, while larger amounts should be packed in checked luggage.

Best way to avoid airport delays

For travelers bringing more elaborate outfits, Jeffries said the simplest strategy is to pack the costume instead of wearing it to the airport. That advice also applies to accessories that may trigger alarms or require closer inspection.

"My biggest recommendation [is] put all of that stuff in your checked luggage, even if you normally don't like to check a bag," he said.

His broader advice is straightforward: travel in regular clothing, keep questionable costume items out of the checkpoint line and change after arriving at the destination. "Pack your costumes, go to where you're going and enjoy your fun," Jeffries said.

Fox News Digital reached out to the TSA for further details and comment.