Excessive Sweating at Airport Security May Trigger Extra Screening

Key Takeaways

• Starting July 17, 2025, TSA scanners flag passengers with excessive sweat for extra screening at U.S. airports.
• The TSA ended the shoes-off policy but liquids rules remain under review as of July 2025.
• Travelers should wear breathable clothing and stay calm if flagged; private pat-downs and support are available.

Travelers passing through airport security in the United States 🇺🇸 this summer face a new challenge: excessive sweating can now trigger extra screening by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). As of July 17, 2025, the TSA’s Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines are more likely to flag passengers who are visibly sweating, especially during the country’s predicted heatwave. This change has immediate effects for millions of travelers, raising questions about privacy, comfort, and how best to prepare for airport security.

Why is sweating a problem at airport security?
The TSA uses Advanced Imaging Technology at most major airports across the United States 🇺🇸. These machines scan passengers for anything unusual under their clothes. The machines work by detecting changes in the density of clothing. When someone sweats a lot, the moisture changes how the scanner “sees” their clothes. This can set off an alarm, even if the person isn’t carrying anything dangerous.

A TSA spokesperson explained, “Added moisture from a person’s body can alter the density of clothing, so it is possible perspiration may cause our Advanced Imaging Technology machines to alarm. If this occurs, the passenger may need to undergo additional screening, such as a pat-down in the area of the body where the AIT alarmed, to ensure there is no threat.”

What happens if you get flagged for sweating?
If the AIT machine detects extra moisture, especially in private areas like the crotch or underarms, it may trigger an alarm. When this happens, TSA officers will ask the traveler to step aside for a pat-down. The officer will focus on the area where the alarm went off. While these pat-downs are meant to be professional and quick, many travelers find them uncomfortable or embarrassing.

Who is most likely to be affected?
Anyone can sweat at the airport, especially during the summer or when feeling nervous. The National Weather Service predicts that this summer will be hotter than usual across the United States 🇺🇸, making sweating even more common. People who are rushing to catch a flight, anxious about flying, or wearing heavy or layered clothing are especially at risk.

Other things that can set off airport security scanners
Sweating isn’t the only thing that can cause problems at airport security. The TSA notes that the following can also trigger alarms:

• Baggy or layered clothing: Loose clothes can hide objects, so scanners may flag them.
• Zippers or reflective materials: Metal or shiny items can confuse the machines.
• Improper foot positioning: Not standing correctly in the scanner can cause errors.

Because of these factors, even careful travelers can sometimes get flagged for extra screening.

Recent changes to airport security policies
July 2025 brought a major change: the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ended the long-standing “shoes-off” policy at U.S. airports. Now, passengers can keep their shoes on during screening. This move is meant to make the process faster and less stressful, especially for families, older adults, and people with disabilities.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem also announced that the rule limiting liquids to 3.4 ounces is under review. New screening technology is being tested at some airports, but as of July 17, 2025, the liquids rule is still in place. Travelers should continue to follow the current rules until further notice.

How are travelers reacting?
Many travelers have shared their frustration and embarrassment on social media after being flagged for sweating. Some say they felt singled out for something they couldn’t control, especially during hot weather or stressful travel days. Others worry about privacy during pat-downs, even though TSA officers are trained to be respectful and professional.

One frequent flyer, Maria Lopez, described her experience: “I was running late for my flight and sweating a lot. The scanner beeped, and I had to get a pat-down in front of everyone. It was embarrassing, but the officer was polite and explained what was happening.”

What does the TSA say about these concerns?
The TSA and DHS stress that these measures are about safety, not making travelers uncomfortable. They say that the technology is necessary to keep flights safe and that officers do their best to treat everyone with respect.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the TSA is aware of the problems caused by false alarms and is working to improve its technology. The goal is to make airport security both safe and comfortable for everyone.

Tips for travelers: How to avoid extra screening due to sweating
While you can’t always control how much you sweat, there are steps you can take to lower your chances of being flagged at airport security:

• Wear light, breathable clothing: Choose fabrics like cotton or linen that help keep you cool.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water before your trip, but not so much that you sweat more.
• Cool down before security: If possible, rest in an air-conditioned area before going through the checkpoint.
• Use antiperspirant: This can help reduce sweating in key areas.
• Freeze your water bottle: Some travelers bring a frozen water bottle through security (it must be solid when you go through) to help stay cool.
• Arrive early: Rushing can make you sweat more. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your gate.

What should you do if you’re flagged for extra screening?
If the scanner alarms because of sweat or another reason, stay calm. TSA officers will explain what’s happening and ask for your cooperation. You can request that the pat-down be done in private if you feel uncomfortable. Officers of the same gender will perform the screening, and you have the right to ask for a supervisor if you have concerns.

What about people with medical conditions?
Some people sweat more because of medical conditions like hyperhidrosis or because of certain medications. If this applies to you, you can let the TSA officer know. You can also carry a doctor’s note, although it’s not required. The TSA has a program called TSA Cares, which helps travelers with medical needs or disabilities. You can contact them ahead of your trip for extra support.

How does Advanced Imaging Technology work?
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines use radio waves or millimeter waves to scan passengers for anything hidden under their clothes. The machines create a generic image (not a detailed picture of your body) and look for anything unusual. If the machine detects a change in clothing density—like from sweat, thick seams, or hidden objects—it will set off an alarm.

The TSA says that AIT machines are safe and do not use X-rays. They are designed to protect privacy by showing only a generic outline, not a real image of the person.

Are there plans to improve airport security technology?
Yes. The Department of Homeland Security is working with technology companies to develop better screening systems. The goal is to make the process faster, more accurate, and less intrusive. New machines may be able to tell the difference between sweat and something dangerous, reducing the number of false alarms and unnecessary pat-downs.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has said that the department is testing new technology at select airports. These pilot programs may lead to changes in how liquids and other items are screened in the future. However, as of July 2025, no official dates have been announced for these upgrades.

What are the broader implications for travelers and airport staff?
For travelers, these changes mean more awareness is needed about how everyday things—like sweating—can affect your experience at airport security. It also highlights the importance of clear communication between TSA officers and passengers, especially when extra screening is needed.

For airport staff, the new rules mean more training and attention to privacy concerns. TSA officers must balance safety with respect for travelers’ comfort and dignity. They are encouraged to explain procedures clearly and offer private screenings when requested.

How do these changes affect different groups?

• Families: Parents traveling with children may worry about their kids being flagged for sweating or other reasons. The end of the shoes-off rule makes things easier, but families should still prepare for possible extra screening.
• Older adults: Seniors may have health conditions that cause sweating or make standing in line difficult. The TSA offers assistance for older travelers, and the new rules about shoes help reduce stress.
• People with disabilities or medical needs: The TSA Cares program can help arrange support for travelers who need it. Letting officers know about your needs ahead of time can make the process smoother.
• Frequent flyers and business travelers: Those who travel often may want to enroll in TSA PreCheck, which offers faster screening and fewer pat-downs. However, even PreCheck members can be flagged if the scanner detects something unusual.

What should you do if you have concerns or complaints?
If you feel you were treated unfairly or want to give feedback, you can contact the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673 or visit the official TSA website. The site also has information about TSA Cares and other support programs.

Where can you find official updates on airport security policies?
The Department of Homeland Security regularly posts updates about policy changes on its official website. Travelers should check for the latest information before their trip, especially if they are flying during busy times or in extreme weather.

Key takeaways for travelers in 2025

• Sweating can now trigger extra screening at airport security in the United States 🇺🇸. This is because the TSA’s Advanced Imaging Technology machines are sensitive to changes in clothing caused by moisture.
• The shoes-off rule has ended, making the screening process easier for many travelers.
• The liquids rule is still in effect, but new technology may change this in the future.
• Travelers should dress in light, breathable clothing and try to stay cool before reaching security. Arriving early and staying calm can also help reduce the risk of being flagged.
• If you are flagged for extra screening, you have the right to ask for a private pat-down and to speak with a supervisor if needed.
• The TSA and DHS are working to improve technology and reduce false alarms, but travelers should be prepared for current procedures.

Practical steps for your next trip

1. Check the weather at your departure and arrival airports. Dress for comfort and to minimize sweating.
2. Review the latest TSA rules on the official TSA website.
3. Pack smart: Avoid unnecessary layers, metal, or reflective items in your clothing.
4. Plan ahead: If you have a medical condition or need assistance, contact TSA Cares before your trip.
5. Stay calm and polite if selected for extra screening. Remember, TSA officers are following procedures for everyone’s safety.

As airport security continues to evolve, staying informed and prepared is the best way to ensure a smooth journey. By understanding how the TSA’s Advanced Imaging Technology works and what triggers extra screening, travelers can take simple steps to reduce stress and avoid surprises at the checkpoint. For more detailed guidance, always refer to official sources and reach out to TSA support if you have questions or concerns.

Learn Today

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) → U.S. agency responsible for security screening at airports to ensure passenger safety.
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) → Scanning machines that detect unusual items or moisture changes under clothing without X-rays.
Pat-down → A physical security check where officers search a passenger’s body when scanners flag concerns.
TSA Cares → A TSA program providing extra assistance for travelers with medical conditions or disabilities.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) → U.S. federal department overseeing TSA and responsible for national security policies.

This Article in a Nutshell

From July 2025, excessive sweating can cause extra TSA screening in U.S. airports. Travelers should dress lightly and stay calm during security checks to avoid discomfort and delays while safety remains a priority amid evolving technology and policies.
— By VisaVerge.com