If you thought the magic of Epic Universe was all about new rides, immersive lands, and Insta‑worthy snacks, one guest’s experience suggests there’s another hurdle to navigate—long before you even reach the coaster. Recent posts from Universal guest Nick Hustson have sparked strong opinions after a visit where he claims the resort’s locker and security systems were so strict and slow, he lost out on his ride photo—and patience.
This piece brings you Hustson’s experience, how other guests are weighing in, and some lingering questions about whether Epic Universe’s dedication to safety has compromised speed and enjoyment.
What Nick Hustson Says Went Down
Nick shared his frustrations via a post on X (formerly Twitter), where he clearly loves Universal Orlando—just not what he says is an overzealous security setup.
As much as I love @UniversalORL – their locker policy needs to change. Being YELLED at by staff members that they’re “Stricter than the TSA” was not the vibe.
What does one do with their medication if EVERYTHING has to go in the locker?
Being made to take my watch off?!
— Nick Hutson (@NickHutsonMusic) September 16, 2025
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He reports being told to remove his watch before the ride—a rule he found excessive and unexpected.
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He describes going through a locker bay that uses facial recognition to lock/unlock, followed by a metal detector, before even entering certain ride queues like Stardust Racers.
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He claims there was only one camera/scanner for many lockers in a bay, which led to long lines and delays. The process adds up: storing belongings, going through the security gate, scanning, then retrieving the items—by which time his ride’s photo‑viewing window had closed.
Nick’s tone doesn’t obscure his disappointment: “Being YELLED at by staff members that they’re ‘Stricter than the TSA’ was not the vibe.” He also asked, “What does one do with their medication if EVERYTHING has to go in the locker?”
In follow‑ups, Hustson suggested that although he sees why the policy exists, the execution “leaves a sour mark on the day” — especially when photo ops are missed and momentum and excitement are disrupted.
How the System Works at Epic Universe (Per Guests & Reports)
Based on previews, guest observations, and reports from Epic Universe’s early days, several features of the locker/security system are relevant:
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Lockers often use facial recognition tech to unlock/secure items. Instead of scanning tickets or physical keys, guests have the option to use their face or ticket.
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Metal detectors are placed after the locker area for certain rides—especially high‑thrill ones where loose items pose greater risk.
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Locker bays are large, but in many cases only a few scanners are available, which causes queues to back up. Lighting and camera quality can also affect how smoothly lockers function. For example, some locker bays are darker, which interferes with facial recognition performance unless additional lighting is installed around cameras.
These policies are intended to improve security, reduce the number of lost or dropped items during rides, and speed up overall access (in theory). But for many, the tradeoff is time—especially when you’re trying to hit multiple rides, snack stops, and photo moments in one day.
Other Guests Sounding Off: It’s Not Just Nick
Nick’s complaints didn’t emerge in a vacuum—other guest posts echo similar frustrations:
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Some have said that staff stationed in locker/security zones are abrupt or impatient, especially when guests aren’t prepared (watches, phones, spare change, etc.).
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Others noted that while facial recognition lockers are neat in their concept, when the tech glitches—bad lighting, face scan failure—things can grind to a halt. In dim locker bays, or when cameras don’t capture a good image, retrieving belongings becomes more complicated than it needs to be.
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Ride photo windows are especially sensitive to timing. Delays in security or locker processes often mean a guest arrives at the exit too late to make the photo preview station before it closes. That’s especially frustrating for people who want the ride photo as part of their visit memento or souvenir.
Universal’s Response
Universal Orlando saw Nick’s post, and they replied, responding to his concerns personally via X:
“Hi Nick, it’s never our intention to cause any sort of frustration, and we’re concerned to hear about your experience. Can you please send us a DM with more information about this, so we can properly document your feedback? Thank you.”
While that’s not a promise of immediate changes, it indicates the resort is listening. It’s rare to see Universal issue responses welcoming feedback so directly—especially around ride security and locker policies.
Where the Tension Rests: Safety vs Flow vs Guest Experience
Universal’s locker and security policies are clearly motivated by safety. Loose items flying off high‑speed rides or falling where people may be walking is a real risk. Watches and small items can become projectiles. And metal detectors help ensure nothing dangerous is concealed.
Still, when guest satisfaction is part of the business model, there’s always balancing required. A security measure that disrupts core moments—like ride photo viewing—or causes someone to feel disrespected or hurried can leave a negative impression.
Especially at a park billed as new, immersive, high‑tech, expectations are that those systems will work well. When they don’t, or when there’s only one scanner for dozens of lockers, it falls short of those expectations.
What Could Improve — If Universal Chooses To Act
From guest feedback and community wishes, a few practical adjustments stand out:
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More scanner/camera units per locker bay so the lanes don’t bottleneck.
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Allow small essentials — medical devices, watches, small valuables — under certain safeguards. Perhaps with a secure pouch or onboard ride storage cases.
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Better lighting around facial recognition stations, which many guests report are poorly lit, making scans fail often.
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Platform lockers or double‑sided locker setups (entrance and exit) to reduce backtracking time.
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Clear signage ahead of rides warning what is required (take off your watch, store phones, go through metal detector). If guests know ahead, they can plan rather than getting surprised.
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Staff attitude training so enforcement isn’t heavy or shaming, but helpful, efficient, and clear.
Is This Becoming Part of the Memory?
Here’s the deal: most people spend weeks or months planning a trip to Epic Universe. They anticipate thrills, immersive environments, the photo memories, the food, the atmosphere. When something as simple as retrieving your watch, or clearing a facial recognition locker bay, becomes a choke point, it does more than annoy — it chips away at the emotional experience.
Nick Hustson’s experience isn’t just a one‑off rant. It represents a cohort of guests who believe the new policies, while well‑intentioned, need refining.
If Universal wants to stay ahead, they’ll continue investing in the tech and invest in the guest experience around that tech. Because in theme parks, memories are made not just on the ride, but in the moments leading up to it.
Until then, if you’re heading to Epic Universe soon, go light. Bring essentials only. Leave your watch behind (or at least stash it safely). And budget extra time for lockers, scans, and tech delays. That ride photo? Don’t count on catching it unless you get in line early.
