Can You Have Pins on Your Carry on Bag? Everything You Need to Know in 2024

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Can you have pins in your carry on bag? The concern for flight safety is forcing air carriers to introduce strict baggage rules on the plane. Compliance with these simple rules guarantees safety of passengers on board.

Among all the prohibited things not allowed on a plane are sharp items such as needles which can harm somebody’s health on board. But what about the decorative pins? They are also sharp in a way, although not that threatening. 

Here, we’ll take a closer look at the rules and regulations surrounding pins in carry-on bags and provide you with everything you need to know in 2024.


Can You Have Pins on Your Carry on Bag?

You can have pins on your carry-on bag when travelling by aeroplane. According to TSA, bringing or wearing different types of decorative pins, such as safety pins, stick pins, bobby pins, lapel pins and so on is not prohibited.

You can either wear a pin or carry it in your carry-on bag. However, keep in mind that metal screen detectors can detect them, and you spend some extra time during security checks. 

red and yellow round plastic toy


Are Pins Allowed on Planes? TSA Rules

can you bring pins on a plane, tsa rules

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows pins to be brought on planes, but there are some restrictions to be aware of. For safety reasons, sharp or pointed pins that could be used as a weapon are not allowed in carry-on bags.

If you have decorative or souvenir pins with sharp or pointed edges, you may want to consider packing them in your checked luggage as well. If you decide to pack them in your carry-on bag, ensure they are properly secured and not easily accessible.

The cutter or needlepoint tools, circular thread cutters with blades must be carried only in checked baggage. Also, the TSA rules say you are permitted to keep scissors smaller than 4 inches in your carry-on luggage.

Overall, it’s always a good idea to check the TSA’s website or contact your airline for the most up-to-date rules and regulations regarding what items are allowed in carry-on and checked luggage.


Having Pins IN Your Carry-on Bag

If you’re planning to travel with pins in your carry-on luggage, you can do a few things to make the process go more smoothly.

Consider using non-metal pins

If possible, choose pins that are made from non-metal materials like plastic or fabric. These types of pins are less likely to be subject to additional screening or prohibited entirely.

Pack your pins in a separate bag

To make it easier to remove your pins for screening, consider packing them in a small, clear bag or container that you can easily remove from your carry-on bag.

Be prepared for additional screening

If you’re travelling with metal pins, be prepared to have them screened separately from other items in your bag. This can add some extra time to the security process, so make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.


Can You Wear a Pin on a Plane?

round white and red heart button-pin

Yes, you can wear a pin on a plane, including decorative or lapel pins. However, if the pin is sharp or pointed, such as a brooch with a sharp pin or a large safety pin, it may set off the metal detector during the security screening process.

In this case, TSA may ask you to remove the pin and put it in your carry-on bag or checked luggage.


Can you wear a pin through airport security?

Yes, you can wear a pin through airport security. However, if the pin is made of metal or has sharp or pointed edges, it may set off the metal detector during the screening checks. In this case, you must remove a pin and place it in the carry-on bag. If you choose to keep the pin on, make sure it is not too large or sharp, and be prepared to remove it if TSA asks you to do so.

To avoid any delays or complications at security, you may want to consider removing any metal pins or jewellery and placing them in your carry-on bag or a small container before going through the metal detector.


Can pins set off a metal detector?

Yes, pins can set off a metal detector depending on their material, size, and design. If a pin is made of metal or has metal components, it is likely to be detected by a metal detector. Pins with larger or sharper components are more likely to set off a metal detector than smaller, flatter pins.

If you are wearing a pin and it sets off the metal detector during the security screening process, TSA may ask you to remove the pin and put it in your carry-on bag or checked luggage.


Can you Wear a Pin when Going Through Airport Security?

Yes, you can wear a pin when going through airport security. However, if the pin has metal, sharp or pointed edges, it may set off the metal detector during the security screening. So, you might need to remove it and store it in a carry-on bag or checked luggage.


 In summary, pins are generally allowed in carry-on luggage as long as they are not considered to be dangerous or pose a security threat. If your pins are made from metal, you’ll need to remove them from your bag for separate screening. By following these rules and taking some additional precautions, you can travel with your pins safely and with peace of mind.


Can you wear a badge on a plane?

Yes, you can wear a badge on a plane, but it may depend on the type of badge and the airline’s policies. If you are wearing a badge or ID related to your job or organization, it is generally allowed on a plane.

However, if the badge has metal components or sharp edges, it may set off the metal detector during the security screening process, and you may be asked to remove it.

If you are wearing a badge for medical purposes, such as an insulin pump or a medical alert bracelet, it is generally allowed on a plane. However, you may want to notify TSA or the airline in advance if you have any concerns or special needs related to your medical device.


Are Decorative Pins Allowed On Planes?

Yes, decorative pins are allowed on planes, but it may depend on their shape and size. Decorative pins that are small and flat, such as lapel pins or enamel pins, are unlikely to cause any issues during the security screening process and can be carried in your carry-on bag or worn on your clothing.

However, if a decorative pin is large or has sharp edges, it may be considered a potential security risk and could be prohibited.

For example, a large brooch with a sharp pin or a decorative hairpin with a pointed end may not be allowed through security.


Are Disney Pins Allowed On Airplanes?

Yes, Disney pins are allowed on aeroplanes. You can wear Disney enamel pins and take them freely through airport security checks.


Are Pinback Buttons Allowed On Planes?

Yes, pinback buttons are allowed on planes. It is also possible to pack them in your carry-on bag.


Can You Bring Sewing Pins On A Plane?

Sewing pins are allowed on a plane, but it’s important to ensure that they are properly packed to prevent any harm to yourself or others during your travel.

Here are a few tips to help you bring sewing pins on a plane.

  • Pack them in your checked luggage. It is recommended to pack sewing pins in your checked luggage to avoid any issues during the security screening process.

  • Store them in a secure container. If you must bring sewing pins in your carry-on luggage, store them in a secure container like a small plastic box or a padded sewing kit to prevent them from getting loose or injuring you or others.

  • Inform TSA officers. If you have a medical condition or if your sewing pins are related to your job or hobby, you can inform TSA officers during the screening process to avoid any confusion or delays.

Are Thumbtacks Allowed On Airplanes?

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), thumbtacks are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. But you can check the TSA website for any updates or changes to the list of permitted items before you travel.

Although thumbtacks are allowed on aeroplanes, it’s important to note that sharp objects like knives, scissors, and other pointed items are generally prohibited in carry-on luggage.

If you need to bring these items with you, it’s best to pack them in your checked baggage.

Any items deemed dangerous or hazardous to the aircraft or its passengers are also prohibited. It’s important to remember that the TSA has the final say on what can and cannot be brought on an aeroplane, so it’s always a good idea to check the agency’s guidelines before you travel.


More Packing Rules to Consider

Can you bring a water bottle on a plane?

Bluetooth speakers on planes: The Rules

Bringing Hair Gel on a Plane

Can you take cologne on planes?

Can you bring tea bags on a plane?

Can you bring an eyelash curler on a plane?


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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.