Facts About Your Wig and the Airport

Everyday millions of people filter through TSA’s security checkpoints without a hitch. But let’s be honest, it’s not always a pleasant experience. You’re just one of many being yelled at, directed, and rushed, publicly. It can leave even the most Zen individual a little miffed. In addition to the typical security hubbub, who wants to be harassed about their wig, hairpiece, or hair in front of a herd of people? No one!

Good news: most men and women wearing hairpieces or wigs make it through security with no problems! However, there are the occasional cases that leave people feeling exposed and embarrassed when it comes to their hair. 

First things first, let’s review TSA’s policy.

According to TSA’s blog, “Anyone who travels through our checkpoints may undergo additional screening of clothing, headwear, or hair.” That means that while most do pass through security, there is the potential for additional security screenings at their discretion. So be prepared.

If your wig or hairpiece has clips, they do on occasion set off the metal detectors (although it is rare). However, there have been cases when a TSA employee has noticed someone is wearing a wig and requested to pat it down. Another possibility is that you may be asked to remove the wig or hairpiece all together.

If this happens to you, there are a few important things to be aware of:

• You can ask for a private screening if you don’t feel comfortable
• It is also completely okay to request that the TSA employee change gloves before they touch your hair.  They may have touched multiple people’s items prior to arriving at your hair. It is a reasonable request.
• There have been cases recently where women have hidden drugs underneath their wig or even gone as far as to sew them into their weave or hide them in their hair. Try not to get too bothered if you feel singled out.  It does happen.  

Also, remember, if you would like to bring adhesive for your wig in your carry on case, make sure that it is in a clear bottle and is 3 ounces or less.

If you’re still feeling uneasy, perhaps you should bypass the wig all together and go for a comfortable scarf or head-wrap instead. Nothing is worth your peace of mind. However, ensure that is snug and slim enough to show there is no room for anything underneath.  Most people will get the drift.

Lastly, operate with confidence. Having a wig or a hairpiece is nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about. You will likely never see any of the people in the airport ever again! And you’re not the only one feeling exposed. Everyone is stripped of their clothes, shoes, belts, and maybe a small sense of pride as they are herded through the security machines. Having a positive attitude in a situation where most people are stressed has never hurt anyone!

We wish you all safe and happy travels from Lynne’s Wig Boutique!

7 No Fail Tips for Traveling with Your Wig

Traveling with a wig doesn't have to be stressful! Whether you are a novice or expert at packing, this essential game-day checklist will insure a smooth-sailing travel experience for both you and your wig.

1. Consider your travel time

Just as your favorite pair of shoes can become uncomfortable after a while, so can your wig. If you are making a long trek, consider wearing a scarf instead for comfort. If you are looking at a long day of traveling while wearing your wig, be sure to also wear a wig cap or mesh liner to keep the wig snug and comfortable to minimize pressure and itching after those long hours.

2. Pack your wig up nicely

There are several very nice carrying cases for your wig. If you do not have a carrying case just yet, a large, soft-sided cosmetics case will do the trick! Wrap your wig neatly in a hair net and place it in a large plastic zip bag. Then, gently place that in your case and viola!

3. Bring a traveling wig stand

A traveling wig stand is a minor investment that will keep your wig in tip-top shape while traveling. At night, it will provide the wig a solid base to breathe and stay shaped and will also aid in the drying process if you need to wash it on your trip. Plastic is the most ideal for air travel, as it will easily pass through security in your carry-on. If all else fails, and you find yourself in a hotel room without a wig stand, an ice bucket turned upside down may do the trick as well.

4. Pack for your wig just as you would your own hair

Don’t forget to bring along your wig comb, brush, spray, and any other fun accessories you use. Also, to save on money, pick up some small travel size bottles of your favorite wig products.

5. Remember that your wig is temperature sensitive

If you will be traveling somewhere warm, unless you have a high-temperature wig, never leave your wig in the hot car or out in the sun. Excessive heat can permanently damage the fibers in the wig.  You should also take this into consideration if you’re planning on checking your wig with luggage that will not be temperature protected.

6. Some additional items you may want to consider:

•          A sleep cap will provide warmth at night
•          A head scarf for windy days or comfort
•          A hat to protect your skin and your wig on a sunny day
•          A second wig, additional hair pieces, extensions, accessories that will provide a different look or additional convenience during your travels 

7. Want it even more streamlined?

Keep a traveling wig case stocked with all of the aforementioned items and just pick it up and go!

"I enjoy the preparatory elements of travel- packing my bags and choosing my outfits- 

but my favourite part is getting there"

Dominic Monaghan

Article written by Brieanna Lowe