Airport security can be a frustrating experience for travelers, especially when items in their carry-on bags trigger additional checks. Playing cards, including trading cards like Pokémon or tarot cards, can raise suspicions due to their shape and density, potentially causing delays at security checkpoints.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) advises travelers to place cards in their carry-on bags, especially if they are valuable collectibles. TSA spokesperson Ian Cava explained that tightly stacked cards can obscure X-ray images, leading to the need for extra screening. To expedite the process, travelers are encouraged to place their cards in a tray alongside other personal items during screening.
If cards still raise concerns during scanning, security staff may perform a physical inspection, particularly for travelers carrying large card collections. It is recommended to allocate extra time for security screening if traveling with bulky card sets.
In addition to cards, various personal items are prohibited in hand luggage due to safety concerns, ranging from sharp objects to seemingly harmless items like corkscrews. Travelers should be aware of these restrictions to avoid potential confiscation at security checkpoints.