The Impact of Sweat on Body Scanners During Heatwaves"

With the current heatwave affecting many regions, passengers flying during this time might have to deal with surprising interactions at airport security. Reports shared on social media highlight how even minor sweating, particularly in intimate areas, can raise flags on airport body scanners. One traveler recounted their experience on Reddit after being subjected to a pat-down not once, but twice, at a TSA checkpoint. Describing herself as a "5'8", 169lbs, midsized adult woman," she noted that her outfit of bike shorts and regular underwear may have contributed to her being flagged. When asked if she was sweating, she admitted, "Probably a little," attributing it to her nervousness about flying.

This woman was not the only one to question why she was singled out while her wife passed through without issue. Another individual shared a similar story, expressing frustration over constantly being flagged in the "sensitive area" regardless of what he wore. He experimented with various types of trousers, from double-knee designs to pajama bottoms, yet each time, he faced a pat-down.

In the discussion, one user provided insight from their own experiences, remarking that increased sweat levels often lead to heightened security checks. This person, who had flown frequently, suggested that moisture can create unusual shadows in the scanning images, prompting TSA agents to investigate. They recommended that travelers consider their clothing choices carefully, noting that looser pants could cause sagging, which might lead to those unwanted scanner triggers. They advised keeping pants fitted and pulled up to prevent the issue. For those feeling overwhelmed by the need for a pat-down, they offered reassurance that TSA agents are not keen to conduct searches either—it’s simply sometimes unavoidable. As a precaution, they suggested avoiding tight or clingy pants and possibly bringing a fan to stay cool during waiting times at the airport.