The cooler weather isn’t the only thing sending shivers down our spine this month. It’s almost time for Halloween, and anyone who reads this blog knows one thing about us…we’ll never ghost ya when it comes to travel tips. So hold on to your broomsticks because things are about to get witchy!
If you’re traveling to any ghoulish gatherings, you’ve probably already picked out a costume or two. We did a quick search for “popular Halloween costumes for 2021” and quickly knew that we should tell you that it’s probably best if you wait on wearing your costume until after you’ve arrived at your destination.
Are you dressing like a superhero or supervillain? Replica knives, machetes, swords and switchblades must be placed in checked bags. The same goes for replicas or toy guns. If you aren’t checking a bag, then you’ll want to ship these items to your destination before your travels.
Think your costume is da bomb? We have one last thing about toy weapons. Any replica grenades aren’t allowed in either your carry-on or checked bags. It’s best to leave those at home.
While we’re talking prohibited items, don’t forget our rule about traveling with liquids. If your costume requires any liquids (this includes smearable substances as well), anything larger than travel-sized will need to go in your checked bag.
Have you been binge-watching a particular show with games? When it comes to masks, you’ll get a green light for continuing to wear your medical face masks. Those are still required at airports and on airplanes for your safety and the safety of others. Also, we’ll need to match your face to your ID. Any full-face costume mask will need to be removed, no matter what…shape…they are.
And just in case anyone needed this warning: If you’re dressing like someone from an “animal sanctuary,” the only exotic animals allowed in a carry-on are stuffed animals.
This isn’t to say that all costumes are bad for travel. Want a list of our favorite costumes for the trip? Here are some ideas:
- Wear one of those all-Spandex suits. You’ll make things easier for our officers!
- Channel your favorite Olympian. Nothing says airport comfort like a tracksuit!
- Are you a fan of AFC Richmond? We believe that khaki pants and a collared shirt would get you a travel victory. Bonus points if you have a mustache!
- We don’t think you’ll be a baaaad guy if you’re wearing an oversized neon t-shirt and matching sweats…duh!
- Or you can dress like our social media team! Button up shirt or blouse on top-- sweatpants on the bottom. The true definition of business casual while working from home during the pandemic.
As always, if you have any questions about traveling in a costume, you can reach our AskTSA team. They’re available seven days a week on Twitter and Facebook to make sure your Halloween getaway is all treats and no tricks.
One more thing before this haunted holiday begins. We can’t talk about Halloween without also talking about candy. We’ve got some pretty sweet news. Not only can your candy be packed in both your carry-on and checked bags, but there’s also no limit to the amount of candy you can bring. So go ahead and bring extra for yourself, for your new travel friends or for us (we prefer chocolate)!
Happy Halloween!