Traveling through UK airports with a wig? You might be wondering how security scanners detect wigs and what to expect during screening. We consulted the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to provide official guidance for wig wearers – especially those with wigs that contain metal components like ear tabs.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about airport security for wigs, including scanner detection, potential metal alerts, privacy options, and expert travel tips. Whether you’re wearing a wig for fashion, medical reasons, or personal preference, this information will help you fly with confidence.
The FAQ’s for wearing a wig at the airport
Can security officers ask me to remove my wig?
According to the CAA, you never have to remove your wig in public areas. If further inspection is necessary, you can request a private screening with same-sex officers present.
What should I do if I wear a wig for medical reasons?
While not required, carrying a brief medical explanation can sometimes help. Security officers receive training about medical conditions and will handle your situation sensitively.
How can I prepare my wig for airport security?
When possible, choose wigs with minimal metal components for travel. Consider removing any additional metal hairpins or decorative elements before screening.
Good news! Scanners, not metal detectors
Here’s the best part – most UK airports now use body scanners instead of those annoying metal detectors. What does this mean for you? Unless your wig is super long or extra full, it probably won’t trigger any alarms! Regular wigs just look like normal hair on these scanners. Additionally, security officers receive training to recognise common items like wigs and handle them appropriately during screening procedures.
What about those metal bits?
Got metal ear tabs in your wig? These metal components might show up as a blip on the scanner. If that happens, security personnel will conduct a more thorough check – but don’t panic! The security officers deal with similar situations daily and understand how to handle wig inspections respectfully. Moreover, airport security procedures evolve continuously to balance safety with passenger comfort, especially for those with special considerations like medical wigs.
Tips from the pros at CAA
The CAA shared some handy tips to make your airport security experience smoother when traveling with wigs:
Your rights (Yes, you have them!)
The CAA emphasised clearly that everyone deserves respect at security checkpoints. Security officers undergo training to handle medical conditions, prosthetics, and personal situations with sensitivity. Furthermore, they follow strict protocols to ensure dignity throughout the screening process. The CAA guidelines specifically prohibit making passengers feel uncomfortable about wearing wigs or other medical necessities.
We hope this information helps you fly with confidence. At Simply Wigs, we actively support our customers through every aspect of wig wearing – including trouble-free travel through airport security checkpoints!
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THE AUTHOR
Hi, I am Emma. We began as our family was thrown into the world of hair loss, and we wanted to create a company where support, education, and hair loss options, were available together in one inclusive place
I wear hats lots to give my head a breather from wigs. it can get hot and itchy.
Long haul flights can cause a problem so i love to travel in a hat. I have learnt to have a headband or scarf underneath the hat for in the cabin, to sleep more comfortably . More importantly for when the security insist you take the hat off.
Top tip:
I have one wig in my hand luggage the other in the case.
Luggage can get lost or delayed !
I have worn a wig for 55 years, travelled a lot of the years and never had a problem.
I’ve worn a wig for more than 50 years and travel abroad often. I’ve never even had to think about my wig. Don’t worry about it!!
Hello Anni,
We would recommend the same advice 🙂
I wear hair topper because of hair loss recent trip to New Zealand I removed the metal clips and used the Ultra hold Minis double sided tape tabs. Long journey but topper stayed put no problems at the airport . Also use these if it’s very windy for extra hold!
What about a hair piece worn for medical reasons secured by hairpins?
I have travelled extensively world wide with my wig on over the last 12 years. Europe, USA and Australia as well as transit through ME. Never had any problems at all 🙂
This is what happened to me recently at Birmingham airport. I had a full body scan and the security guard needed physical pat down after it. I quietly told them that I was wearing a wig with metal ear tabs. They continued the pat down and said that my wig looked amazing! All very quietly and professionally. I was very impressed by the way they treated me. Also, chuffed that they had complimented my hair! Happy travels intrepid adventures xx