TSA Rules · Updated October 4, 2026
Can You Bring Bobby Pins on a Plane?
Yes. Bobby pins, hair pins, and clips are allowed in carry-on and checked bags with no limit. Ordinary bobby pins are not treated like prohibited knife blades. Wearing hair accessories can still lead to extra screening, so follow the officer’s instructions.
The rules
Carry-on essentials
Move through the airport fast and keep everything in its place from gate to gate.
Bobby pins and other hair accessories
| Hair item | Carry-on | Checked | The rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobby pins | Yes | Yes | No limit; not a sharp object |
| Hair clips and claws | Yes | Yes | Allowed in both bags |
| Hair ties / scrunchies | Yes | Yes | No restriction |
| Metal hair sticks | Yes | Yes | Long metal may get a glance |
| Pins worn in your hair | Yes | Yes | Follow screening instructions; removal or extra checks may be needed |
The official word
Packing permission and hair screening
Bobby pins are a permitted TSA item. Permission to pack them does not guarantee an alarm-free screening or remove the need to follow screening instructions.
Editorial summary; original source note: TSA, What Can I Bring (July 2026)
Before the checkpoint
What to expect at the checkpoint
Bobby pins are generally permitted. Hair accessories may still cause an alarm or extra screening; follow the officer’s instructions.
Either bag, or in your hair. A small tin in your carry-on keeps them from scattering.
Metal pins rarely set off the body scanner. If they do, additional screening may be needed; its extent is determined by the officer.
FAQ
Bobby-pin travel questions
Can you bring bobby pins on a plane?
Do bobby pins set off airport security?
Are metal hair accessories allowed through TSA?
Can you wear bobby pins through the scanner?
Sources checked July 2026: TSA, What Can I Bring. Rules change; confirm before you fly.
Policy scope reviewed October 3, 2026. Check the latest TSA and airline requirements before travel. TSA complete alphabetical list · TSA Travel Tips · TSA official hair-screening bulletin · CBP Returning Home with TSA screening advice