Travellers have shared warnings that perspiration in sensitive areas can cause airport body scanners to flag them, leading to embarrassing pat-downs. Reports have emerged on Reddit of individuals being stopped for additional screening after scanners detected irregularities.
One woman described being flagged twice in the same spot during a US Transport Security Administration checkpoint. She said she was wearing bike shorts and normal underwear, and admitted she was probably sweating because she is terrified of flying.
Another man reported a similar recurring issue, saying his "sensitive area" set off the scanner regardless of his clothing choices. He experimented with various trousers, including double-knee and pyjama bottoms, but was patted down every time.
Reddit users have suggested that sweat can create unusual shadows on scanner images, prompting security officers to act. One frequent flyer advised pulling trousers up as high as possible to avoid sagging, which he claimed guarantees a pat-down.
They also offered reassurance, noting that security staff do not enjoy conducting such searches any more than passengers endure them. Travellers are advised to stay cool and consider their clothing to avoid triggering the scanners.
