The avid collectors of a pin badge may wonder whether they can bring it on their next flight. After all, these small and meaningful pieces hold sentimental value to them and are hard to find in huge luggage. However, it is important to be aware of its rules and regulations before taking them on a plane.
To help you stay away from any possible complication, we have compiled a bunch of guidelines meaningful in this case. This blog has everything you should know related to travelling with pin badges and some useful tips for a smooth journey.
Can You Take Enamel Pin Badges On Your Carry-On Luggage Or Backpack?
If you’re wondering this question, the good news is that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows it. It means you can carry it in your backpack or carry-on luggage because this tiny item doesn’t pose any security concerns. These decorative items don’t raise red flags during airport security checks, allowing you to carry them according to your preference and travel needs.
Other similar tiny items, like safety and bobby pins, also share this leniency. However, it holds a big concern if you decide to check your baggage. As they have sharp posts and metal backing, they can get snagged on conveyor belts during the baggage handling procedure. Consequently, they may become damaged or torn off.
We suggest you keep these valuable and delicate pins with you in your carry-on luggage to avoid this problem. You may also be asked to remove excessive ones and there is a possibility of you undergoing inspection. Consider some precautions to make your air journey smooth and tension-free.
Is It Safe To Wear An Enamel Pin On A Plane? They’ve Sharp End!
The Transportation Security Administration doesn’t have any problem with your customised enamel badges. However, it is about sharp and pointy things, especially if they’re longer than 6cm. The goal of TSA is to protect their employees while they handle your bags or packets. Plus, their objective is also to safeguard their clients on the plane from any potential injury or threat.
The guidelines of TSA classify enamel pins as jewellery and not extremely dangerous. Apart from causing a minor inconvenience at the metal detector, it is not of a big deal to airport security.
How Many Enamel Pin Badges Are Safe To Take With You On A Plane?
The answer to this question depends on which country you live and the airline you’re opting for. In short, there is no one straight answer for it. If you have too many at the airport, you probably have to take them out before going through airport security. And it wouldn’t be something you want, right? Still, it depends on the metal content of your emblems and the location where you’ve stuck them.
Suppose you have placed them on your coat, so you can easily take it off and put it on the tray, along with your belt. But if too many of them on your shirt and you don’t take them out before going through the scanning process, the metal detector will beep. Then, you may get in trouble, that’s why you should be careful and plan wisely. The right way is to remove them beforehand and carry a few ones.
Rules And Regulations Of Enamel Pins On International Air Travel
Wanderlust who are also enthusiastic about pin badges should look into rules and regulations before heading to foreign lands. Here are the policy concerns of some important countries:
United Kingdom: The UK government website has mentioned specific guidelines regarding small and sharp items, such as scissors in hand luggage. But sadly, they have remained silent on the topic of pin emblems. Get in touch with the airline that will take you to the UK before backing your insignia to avoid any unfortunate circumstances.
Canada: If you’re planning to visit the great white north, you’re in luck! The Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) happily welcomes decorative pins, both in your carry-on and checked baggage. But you should ensure that your small emblems are not sharp or pointed. We recommend you be on the safe side and contact your airlines for any particular requirements they may have.
New Zealand: As you venture to the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand, their Aviation Security Service shows a green light to pin badges. While travelling over there, you will have the freedom to carry it both in your carry-on and checked baggage. Just practice caution to make sure your emblems are not sharp at the ends.
Australia: The Australian official prohibits sharp objects, such as scissors, knives, and needles in your carry-on luggage. But the status for pin badges is less clear. Therefore, you should conduct a quick check with your airline or the airport to get assurance about their acceptance. Thus, the rules and regulations on whether you can take hard enamel pin badges on a plane are as variable as the clouds in the sky. As a result, get up-to-date information from your airline or the official website of the country you’re travelling to.
Essential Tips To Make Your Airline Journey Smooth While Taking Pin Badges
Here are a few vital tips to consider:
- Dress comfortably if you’re getting ready for a flight if it is going to take more than a few hours. Maintain a decent balance between comfort, simplicity, and style. You can wear some jewellery and pin badges as an accessory to enhance your appeal. Incorporating a few ones would make it easier for you to remove them during the inspection at the airport
- Avoid wearing emblems that appear too pointy and have pins longer than six inches to ensure your and other passengers’ safety
- Wear as little metal as possible and tuck your metallic accessory pieces into your carry-on before going through the airport security checkpoint
- Check the TSA guidelines of the country you’re travelling to as a precaution. Specifically, check their size and shape. Though most airlines don’t fuss regarding it, it is better to be safe rather than sorry later
Final Verdict
Avid pin badge collectors can rest assured that they can bring their beloved customized pieces on a plane. The TSA generally allows enamel emblems in carry-on luggage, making it easy to keep these cherished items safe and intact during your journey. While it’s best to avoid placing them in checked baggage due to potential damage, wearing or carrying them in your hand luggage is a safe bet.
Always check specific airline regulations and international travel guidelines to ensure a hassle-free experience. With a bit of planning and precaution, you can showcase your collection without any complications. Happy travels!
