British tourists urged to 'never wear' two items at airport or risk delays

Daily Mirror

19-07-2025

If you're planning on going away any time soon, there are some things you need to know about visiting the airport. A travel expert has warned against wearing certain items
As the holiday season fast approaches, many are eagerly making plans for airport travel, daydreaming of sun-soaked getaways and much-needed downtime. However, if you're gearing up to head out soon, pay attention, as your trip through the airport could be smoother with some insider knowledge.
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Heed the advice of travel gurus who warn that certain accessories might set you back due to unexpected delays. The fashion stakes are high when flying – it's not just about comfort, as it's also about ensuring a hassle-free journey, with your attire having the potential to make or break your airport experience.
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Jetpac 's very own travel expert Pearlyn Yeo, with a hefty Instagram following of over 20,000 on the company platform, has given pointers on what not to don at the airport. Take this guidance from Pearlyn – offered exclusively to us – to heart, as it could vastly improve your globetrotting this year.
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The expert explained: "Keeping sunglasses on or wearing headphones through passport control can cause unnecessary delays and stress. These accessories can make it harder for border agents and automated systems to confirm your identity or get your attention.
"Both facial recognition gates and human officers rely on clear eye contact and unobstructed facial features. Sunglasses can interfere with the technology and an officer's ability to assess your behaviour and demeanour.
"Headphones, on the other hand, can distract you and mean you miss important instructions - both of which can slow down the process. As well as removing the above accessories before heading through security and passport control, it's important that travellers are prepared.
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"At Jetpac, we advise all travellers to keep their documents digitally and ensure they are easy to access. eSIMs can help to organise everything you need. But it's also wise to know when to put your devices and any other distractions away.
"For example, when going through immigration. Removing accessories and putting devices away shows that you're ready and also that you respect certain protocols."
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Pearlyn added: "Most security staff will ask you to remove these items or stop using devices, so it will only add to your journey time and stress if you're not prepared.
"With this in mind, it's best to remove headphones, pack away phones and tablets and pop your sunglasses safely away before you reach security, passport control or immigration.
"In doing so, you're more likely to breeze through border control and you won't have to worry about unnecessary delays or stress."
When it comes to choosing an outfit for travelling, there are a few golden rules that one should typically adhere to. The focus should primarily be on practicality and comfort.
The general advice is to opt for layered clothing, breathable materials and comfy footwear. It's also wise to steer clear of tight-fitting garments, bulky items and anything with an excess of metal that could potentially delay security checks.
By sticking to these guidelines, you're likely to breeze through security checks. It's always beneficial to have a few travel tips up your sleeve.