The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has many rules for passengers flying this summer season. However, a popular Instagram influencer shared this tip against wearing a popular item of clothing on planes, not because some newly updated checklist bans it, but because it could pose a serious safety risk during an emergency.
Pollyanna, a travel content creator known as @travelwithpalma on Instagram, recently shared the tip with her 11,000+ followers. In a viral video, she wrote: “Never wear this on a plane,” referring to leggings or tight-fitting pants made of synthetic materials.
She explained, “I know leggings feel like a second skin during a flight. But here’s why you really shouldn’t wear them.”
According to The Mirror, aviation safety experts believe that synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex, which are commonly found in leggings, have a high chance of melting due to heat and air pressure. In the rare event of a fire or emergency landing, these materials could fuse to the skin, worsening any injuries.
Instead, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and safety professionals recommend wearing loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, or denim. These fabrics are more fire-resistant and less likely to cause harm in extreme situations. In addition, a comfortable outfit during long-haul flights will also be a wise decision to opt for.
“Stay comfy but choose cotton cozy, not plastic cozy,” Pollyanna advised in the viral clip, which has garnered many views. Her followers could not thank her enough for the tip. One user commented, “This is such a good tip!” Another added, “As a former flight attendant, I can say this is excellent advice.”
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While many people believe sports leggings are a good fit for flights, safety experts claim that anything made of polyester is flammable. Several online users also debated the issue, and one person claimed, “Cotton is a safer option.” Meanwhile, even though TSA does not prohibit wearing leggings or other synthetic clothing on planes, some airlines do have a specific dress code, especially if it’s considered inappropriate or too revealing.
TSA authorities will tell you to avoid wearing clothes made of “threatening or offensive material” because that could delay the security proceedings. In worst cases, one can be denied boarding at the gate. (via Barton Associates).
In addition, clothing with offensive slogans might also get you past TSA security checks. However, it could still result in being denied boarding by the airline. Furthermore, baggy clothing, though allowed, can also lead to longer security checks.
Bulky jackets or outerwear will also be asked to be taken off during security checks. If a person is wearing a fitted sweater underneath a jacket, they might not have to take it off. Regardless, it’s best to avoid hassle and wear something underneath the shirt or sweater in case TSA authorities ask to take it off.
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Consequently, heavy boots or strappy sandals could also be an issue to wear if security asks a flyer to remove them. Therefore, comfortable shoes such as slip-ons, which make walking through the airport with luggage easy, are preferable. Heavy belts with buckles should be avoided, as most TSA guidelines may require you to remove them.
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These days, a lot of online influencers and YouTubers are using social media to provide easy travel guides for people, which has been a blessing in disguise for many first-time flyers, especially with kids and elderly citizens. While the travel and influencer industry is already booming, many of them also make these videos because they know that a lot of passengers still struggle with packing and check-in rules despite several warnings.
Therefore, at the end of the day, what a person wears on a plane can affect both their safety and the quality of their journey. Hence, it’s best to read the travel guidelines on the TSA website and do proper research while packing and planning for the flight.
