7 TSA Secrets Never Told to Passengers (New Airport Scam!)

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Must-Know Airport Security Tips and Scams in 2024. This is how to keep your luggage safe from theft at the airport and when going through TSA airport security. Learn exactly what happens to your luggage at the airport and how to keep your valuables safe before your flight.
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Welcome to Portable Professional, where I, Megan, use my experience from over 300 flights to offer you simple, practical and game-changing travel tips and hacks. Our mission is to help you reduce stress and make the most of every trip.
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🐶 Chapters
00:00 Airport Security Scams
00:21 TSA agent caught on camera!
00:42 Load bins with least valuable items first
01:16 Paris CDG airport warning
01:50 Make electronics easily identifiable
02:32 Pack in luggage like this
03:23 My personal item for plane
04:17 Packing for security screening process in mind
05:03 Security hack
05:26 Avoid the ALARM!
05:59 DO NOT bring this through security
06:51 Security hack 2
07:20 How long before flight to go to airport
08:09 Most common airport security scams
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[@PortableProfessional]

*Save 10% on the V4 Bento Bag with code MEGAN10* bit.ly/nomadlane

[@vanessabanyas164]

Need more than 10% to be able to afford this bag! It’s $300 for a carry-on bag!

[@dickchung5298]

😅😮

[@TDavis_333]

Exactly what I came to say! I truly appreciate your videos! But can't drop $300(or $270)on a carry on bag!

[@woodandwheelz]

I went through the TSA line and had to put my items in 3 bins. A lady put her bin in between two of my bins, most likely by mistake, but the TSA lady took her bin from between mine and put it behind mine so that my 3 bins were together. I liked that she did that and thanked her.

[@Galen_G]

I was moving to Hawaii from Colorado and bought a new (less than $100) bright yellow SMALL carry on suitcase. Everything of value I owned, that wasn't in my personal item case or on me, was in that carry on - tax papers, medical, legal, my children's pictures, and much more. The gate agent at United Airlines, where my family and I had worked for years, told me my carry on was too large. My suitcase was small so I could handle it because I'm small. People with giant carry ons were boarding the plane. I pointed this out to the agent but he had control of my life and I started crying but he just stood there and lied to my face. I couldn't afford to miss that flight. I couldn't afford to leave that suitcase because I knew in my gut he was going to steal it. I boarded but left my seat and went out to the gate and MY little suitcase was the only one there! Why was I not surprised? I took it and reboarded, found plenty of overhead for it and sat down. Pretty soon I hear someone yelling my name on the plane. He grabbed my arm and asked me if I took my suitcase. People around me saw a very large man grabbing my skinny arm and basically terrorizing me. I then told him my heart medication was in the suitcase, which most of it was because I couldn't fit anymore in my personal item. He let go of me as people around were looking at him. He told me not to do it again and left. I have never flown United again since they started hiring crooks.

[@Hydermehdi]

Hi. I'm sorry for the distress caused by being manhandled. Please understand that others feel for you. Being bullied is something that is hard to get over.

[@tedtalksrock]

I was bullied by a united boarding agent as well. They hire thugs. Glad you made it through. Good job following your instincts.

[@annbell8748]

They hire thug gate agents on Delta out of Minneapolis too. I was bullied by female thugs coming and going to Palm Springs. I was in first class and was treated very badly. And profiled and followed by Security like a criminal. I am no criminal.

[@wasabiginger6993]

Wow, so glad I don't fly united anymore! Thank you and so sorry you had this horrible experience.

[@camiller4916]

I never fly United

[@user-uk1by5ev1x]

TSA, Thousands Standing Around…have never caught or stopped any terrorist activity but hundreds have been arrested for theft. Why do we need them?

[@wasabiginger6993]

TSA first steps towards a nazis run world.

[@vladimiramiller3738]

We don’t. It’s a made up bs. Useless employment to terrorize normal citizens. Useless, harmful X-rays to our bodies, too.

[@zareegoraya1528]

Exactly.. only making life difficult for law abiding people.

[@yumi305]

You are so right! I believe that all of this system implemented, all of this TSA unlimited power has to do more with keep us like sheep/slaves doing what they want us to do, it's a lie!!! They told us that this is for our on security...but it is not. every time I have to flight I feel embarrassing and very angry for doing all this (nonsense)...

[@jawedsyed1185]

No (Y do V need them?) V don't, they the TSA-crookedest Org-run by the Thugs, in Holy name of (the father/Bush, the son/Bush, n the spiritual-Thugs (their administration)) Security. For them even a child under 5yrs is a terrorist. So just comply FREE-SLAVES/or US-citizens !

[@rickgesell9468]

Airline pilot here, place your phone and wallet (and nice watches, jewelry, etc) deep inside of a zipped compartment in your luggage or purse. If it's loose in a bin, it's just begging to go for a walk. Even if they have to open the luggage to inspect it, you'll be standing there while they do it. Never check any item you can't afford to lose.

[@wikolib6821]

That's what I do. Thanks.

[@neilcharles2520]

People these days has no common sense,dumb as a sack of rocks..

[@lyndaadams5584]

@rickgesell9468 I have never traveled before by plane. We will be taking a trip. I have a pace maker and cannot go through a scanner. What happens in that case?

[@neilcharles2520]

@@lyndaadams5584 TSA will ask you if you have any devices in you,they will give a personal pat down.

[@winterwolf2012]

@@lyndaadams5584 Pat down, make sure they know your condition.

[@wolffhenry5751]

I'm more attentive when I'm going through security ever since I saw a security agent grab my wallet. He saw that I had seen him and put it under my clothes in the other bin. Strange behaviour!

[@lureneloys8830]

good eyes!

[@mikelindbergh642]

Don’t let airport security (TSA, etc.) stress you. Be methodical when adding, and removing your items in trays. Always keep your gear in sight. Don’t pass the walk-through metal detector before your bag goes into the x-ray machine. And to repeat: look at what the airport security is doing with your luggage.

[@trevorhines4888]

Exactly right Mike. Don’t pass through the metal detector until your bag enters the x-ray machine & never let your bag out of sight (as far as is possible), many of the “security” staff are on minimum wage.

[@80cardcolumn]

Sometimes you can't "always keep your gear in sight." The TSA requires you to temporarily relinquish possession and control of your personal items for scanning but does not guarantee the items will not be damaged, lost, or stolen while not in your possession.

[@CarolineOceanaRyan999]

This is mind-blowing. Tips on how to avoid getting robbed by TSA. As if air travel wasn't difficult and risky enough these days.

[@ErinFindsHerWay]

Oh one time (and this was right after Thanksgiving in 2001), I was randomly called for a search at the gate before boarding my connecting flight home. I had been visiting family. My grandmother had given me some of my mom’s jewelry (which was very expensive) and my dad had given me cash and a large check to fix something with my car. They looked through my carryon and purse and separated me by a wall. When I got home, a friend who worked with law enforcement told me, “you should have said you wanted to at least watch.” But it was right after 9/11 and I didn’t want to make waves. Luckily, nothing was taken, but it scared me. I told my mom I would never have that much valuable stuff with me on a plane again. I doubt that jewelry has been insured in years.

[@annbell8748]

Lucky they didn’t have taste. Probably thought it was fake.

[@makistar2001]

I put my valuables inside my carry on and lock it, if TSA wants to search the carry on, I'm there to watch the process.

[@patmos68]

Two years ago when I was coming back from Greece, I did a really stupid thing, I left my wallet in the bin at the security check at the Athens airport. I didn't realize it tell about 15 minutes later when I was going to buy a couple of things. I ran back to the security check area fully expecting that my wallet would be gone, but no they had taken it and locked up in a safe. After a couple of question to verify it was mine, they gave it back to me but made me check to be sure everything was still there. I don't think I would have ever seen my wallet again had this happened in the USA.

[@jaypee5633]

going trhough tsa at Rapid City SD, i lost my phone when my daughter put her bin on top of mine. we realized about 30 mins later but couldn't find it. spoke with a police office, who gave me the number for the airport manager, and within 2 days they had shipped it to me in Phoenix. very grateful

[@HariSeldon913]

I once dropped my driver's license going through security. Fortunately I realized when I went to put it back in my wallet. Fortunately when I went back they had it and gave it to me without asking for identification.

[@Tad-zh4wr]

I got lucky is USA leaving for Athens in fact. Left my bag of jewelry and it was still there. And on way home from Egypt I left my wallet in my stowaway luggage on the outside zip. and it was still there. It was the most stressful plane ride ever. Have faith!

[@HariSeldon913]

@@Tad-zh4wr Apollo was looking out for you. 😺

[@Tad-zh4wr]

I think so Hari! 😍☮️

[@cherylw445]

Another tip to avoid chaos, confusion, and angst... as soon as your stuff comes through the scanner and is within reach get your bins of stuff off the rollers and bring it over to the near by tables and sort it all out there and put your shoes and coats back on. So frustrating to not be able to get to my stuff because everyone is standing in front of the rollers getting dressed and organized.

[@PortableProfessional]

Good tip! Safe travels

[@cherylw445]

@@PortableProfessional thanks for your tips and hard work making your content

[@ulvesparker]

My pet peeve. And that goes for anywhere there is a queue of people that cannot get by. Yes,TSA checkpoint, plane aisles while boarding or exiting the plane and everyone in front of you has moved on, doorways or areas in front of escalators.on Yes, by all means, let's all wait while you put on your belt, dig through your bag, or hold your conversation in the only doorway out. It always happens when you have a short connecting flight. Common courtesy, man.

[@chrisdemnianyk4357]

TSA precheck is the answer. Also, get serious when you are going through the magnetometer. I am sick of all the nonsense, chatter, and dumb people who just stand there after their bags go through the conveyor belt. MOVE along. The key is preparation BEFORE you get to the line. Put your valuables in a personal bag or crossbody and NEVER let it leave your sight. Disraction is a thief's best friend. Be aware, move along, and remember you are NOT the only person trying to get somewhere at the airport.

[@cherylw445]

@chrisdemnianyk4357 it would be nice if other countries did TSA precheck. Agreed on everything you said.

[@RiverWoods111]

I spent many hours on a bus going up into a mountain town where there was no plane access, and on this bus, I met an interesting gentleman who worked with an airline fairly high up. The number one thing he told me to keep suitcases safe was to make them look old and beat up. From that point on when I buy new suitcases I purposely bang around, and get them good and scratched. Then I take a spray can and add a bunch of graffiti-type art if you can call it that. Not only does it stand out, but nobody wants to touch it. I highly recommend skins for your computers, phones, tablets, and any other equipment. I would choose something wild and kind of child-like that makes it look like it might be a child's computer, and cover up anything brand logos on it. Nobody needs to see the apple or the snakes of a Razor computer, cover that stuff up. The airport is not the place to brag about how expensive your computer is. If you don't want it to be child-like, then go with something like a realistic scary snake or spider pic, or something that is completely gross. If this is your work computer just put a skin on it that is professional, but a bit on the loud side. Or put a skin on it that makes it look like it has been to hell and back like it has been checked and flown in the underbelly of the plane. The point is thieves won't pick up something that they think is cheap (child-like) and obnoxious. They are not going to pick up something obnoxious in any kind of way. Too easy to get caught.

[@wordsculpt]

Absolutely! I still use the luggage my parents purchased for me when I went to college. It's presentable, but it looks like what it is, mid level luggage, out of date, and Definitely not interesting. It Definitely doesn't look like luggage that might contain something worth stealing! No one gives it a second look. Bonus: It's easy to identify! When I need new luggage, I will buy "vintage".

[@belindadavid3241]

What do u mean "skin"? What's that?

[@johnc5915]

​@@belindadavid3241stickers.

[@NoniOfFive]

@@belindadavid3241 skins are generally peel and stick or removable stickers that fit the size of your electronic

[@agerduba4668]

You are right about Paris CDG-On my way to Istanbul for work, an agent moved away 2 Armani products that were perfect flight sized. When I asked her about it, she looked very annoyed that I saw her move. She was just stealing my products with no shame.

[@debbielb2325]

I think we stopped a situation like this at Heathrow. We were flying back home to Ottawa going thru security. My Daughter and I were both told to leave our passports in the bin. This has happened many times before so I was cautious but not alarmed. I went thru first then my daughter. I stopped and looked at her and said where is your passport? Nowhere to be found. A tsa agent was screaming at us to move on. I stood my ground with that we were staying until my daughter gets her passport back. They told me several times they didn’t have it and to move on. Out of the corner of my eye I saw something hit the floor under the X-ray scanner and there it was, my daughter’s passport. I will be now always putting away the passport and as soon as they check it and my boarding pass.

[@bernardsoh3559]

It's a passport. Can't believe they are screaming at you to go ahead without it. Hope you got a good apology from them after that

[@soothingstories]

@@bernardsoh3559 Getting an apology from Heathrow would be amazing. They were so much more horrible than that to me. I had four of them yelling at me as I cowered and asked them to stop, because I requested a pat down instead of going through all the scanners. (I have a rare condition (long story) and the radiation, especially when I am tired can make me vomit and get a headache for hours). They left my stuff out in the open unattended for 15 minutes while they took me to some private room, locked the door and berated me some more for asking for a pat down. They told me I should not travel if I can't go through the scanners and all such "Sci fi nightmare we are losing our humanity" type of logic. Passengers and people who saw the whole verbal gang up and attack as I cowered and then how I was utterly shattered and in tears and traumatized afterwards - told me I should write a complaint and request the camera footage. I did and no apology or camera footage. They said they don't keep it, etc. In the EU and US passengers with disabilities have rights, but in whatever nightmare state England has become the rights are gone and every passenger is " a pain in the neck". I remember really liking Heathrow before Brexit, after that my four experiences with it were either Chaos or these sorts of shouting and just pure meanness from the airport workers (except the info desk people and shop keepers). Heathrow is one of the most toxic places now.

[@crepuscularwintersky]

Bright colorful luggage SOUNDS good, but the other passenger with the same colorful luggage won't even check the tag. I caught one lady making off with my bright green bag - which looked exactly the same as hers. Use the ribbons and stickers , people.

[@PortableProfessional]

You’re right! The more you make your bag unique the better! Safe travels.

[@lesliehyde]

I use a mix of sewed on dog leashes (cheep ones that have been cut up) that have been arraigned into my initials on the front, back and sides except for the two sides with the handles as well as using several different colors of paracord (because I make my own customized modular dog leashes with the hardware that was salvaged from the cheap dog leashes and some "virgin"/not really traditional hardware) that I stitch down and "braid" onto the handles on my bag so that I can spot my bag from nearly 50 feet away from me.

[@fabianmckenna8197]

We bought a couple of bright blue luggage straps making our cases easily identifiable.......

[@rickgonzalez1218]

My husband put an X made out of white duct tape on the sides of our luggage making it easy to spot. Saw this idea in a comment on some YT site.

[@janicef8656]

Agree with duct tape. We found zebra duct tape and it has been awesome.

[@ernestdesimone2234]

I wear a jacket with zipper pockets, put my valuables (watch, wallet, cell phone, passport, etc.) in the pockets, zip them shut and put the jacket in the TSA x-ray tray. Flying is such BS; I hate it so much. Security workers who get caught abusing the public need to go to prison for a long time. Young people put up with this nonsense because they've never known anything other than the post-9/11 world. Those of us old enough to remember the pre-9/11 days don't even want to go to an airport anymore.

[@wasabiginger6993]

I think this is on purpose. Nazis tactics slowly taking over the planet.

[@shirleysmith2044]

You got it! This whole control us is taken to another level and we lost so much to these criminals. They are looking for stuff they can sell on EBAY!!!

[@absurdnerd7624]

If you truly hate flying so much, there are alternatives. Train, bus, chartered driver, or drive yourself. And if traveling to another continent there is passenger ships. Or you could choose to not travel at all. Instead of complaining, change your own actions. 😄

[@soothingstories]

We need to help flying stop feeling like we are entering "an institution" and letting the cluster b personality disorders make up nonsensical, over the top "safety rules" that don't seem to stop parts from flying off the plane or turbulence. Yes, keep all the knives and guns off the planes, but there are liquid scanners now that can see if it is a harmful substance. If we have to pay for a carry on, we should allowed the weight and size that they say are permitted. I have had a similar experience to your yellow suitcase. They let all the men who are dressed or like like "Businessmen" take whatever they want on board. Ends up a lot of them are in economy and just on vacation going to a game, but I on my way to present at a conference get my "perfect size" carry on, in an earlier zone, taken away, because they need to make an example of someone and get volunteers. They think it is easier to do this to a woman than a man. It also seems to be a "power game".

[@soothingstories]

@@absurdnerd7624 The writer is remembering a time when flying wasn't akin to entering an institution and the security made sense, it is good to question each time a right or freedom is taken away, especially when things are not necessary and just slow us down or open passengers up to theft.

[@Maya-vs7mv]

Are there no "checks" for the TSA agents themselves?? If they stash stolen goods in their jackets or their own personal bags, do those get checked at any time during their shift or when they leave for the day? It's unbelievable how these people are just able to help themselves so easily.

[@ThumperNY]

I had a TSA officer try and swipe my IPhone in NYC. She didn’t realize I was watching her like a hawk but when she did she put it back in the tray, giving me a dirty look. I now always keep my phone and other valuables in my suitcase case and never in those trays. They can pull me aside and search my suitcase if need be.

[@claudiagoodman639]

I flew out of a small airport in Franklin PA the TSA women went into my purse and took money out.she was the only agent there I did not know until I stoped to get something to eat and had no money .

[@Star-Boarder]

I have a backpack that i put all of my important items locked in on the bottom. On top, I place my travel accessories. I use a travelon purse that I slide into the backpack and the backpack has a tsa lock. Once I have my passport scanned I stick it into the backpack and zip it. Then I go through security. I make it a point to not bring expensive items. I stopped bringing a laptop and am strongly considering not bringing my tablet. Its a pain to figure out if I need to pull it out or not, which depends on the agent, in my experience. My checked bag is locked with a cover and then I use a strap around it. I make my luggage hard to get in quickly.

[@robertallison1580]

My procedure is as follows: Packing: Liquids in the regulation transparent bag, but then inside another brightly coloured plastic bag for valuables, all inside my carry on. Just before security: Retrieve bag in bag, and take out the transparent bag with the liquids, putting it back in the carry on. Place wallet, watch, keys, phone, passport etc in the valuables bag but keep in hand in case boarding card or whatever is needed to be shown at security. At security: Retrieve liquids bag and place on tray (probably with laptop and/or coat). Put valuables bag inside carry on and place on tray. After security: Retrieve valuables bag and put the contents back where they belong on your person. Put the liquids bag inside the now empty valuables bag and put back into carry on. Not only does this secure your valuables, but it also means you won't forget watch, house keys etc as they are all together.

[@durhamskywriter]

Yes! This is exactly what I do, too.

[@shelaghjackson9577]

Great tip. Just put all your jewelry, watch, etc in that bag before you even get in line, to speed things up.

[@oister2016]

Tie bright coloured ribbons on your bags for easy identification

[@caroleanne8529]

Good Ideas! Plus, use air tags in your bags, even carry ons. That way if someone picks it up thinking it is theirs (or worse), you can track it.

[@bernardsoh3559]

Yep, this should be on top of any new lists for travelling tips

[@eddym5532]

What is an air tag?.

[@jeanetteallan9227]

@@eddym5532 an (Apple) air tag is a BlueTooth tracking device that works with your smartphone, tablet or computer. Tile is a similar item/company. Those are the two largest, there are smaller companies offering similar service, but some go out of business (like TrackR).

[@davesanders9203]

I've "tagged" mine with spray paint! You want you "luggage" be "ONE OF A KIND" I've seen others with various "appliques" SEWN ON!

[@avanya4278]

Also I think it's a good idea to take pictures with air tags on them. Easy to track!!

[@magietagie]

I learned the ‘no black suitcase” rule almost 20 years ago. On my first trip to LA, I found myself waiting at the baggage claim forever because I couldn’t tell MY black suitcase from all the other black bags. It went around 3 or 4 times times before I realized it. I swore never again would my bag be black!

[@dammar117]

I just tie a colorful scarf to my black bag. Indeed, i found an awesome carry-on, which i had to have, but it only existed in black.

[@cindybuck8994]

I bought rolls of decorative duct tape and wrapped it around mine to easily find it

[@chicanica64]

@@cindybuck8994great idea!

[@bruceboman9801]

Been doing this for years. I had access to colored athletic tape when traveling with sports teams.​@cindybuck8994

[@purrceys7959]

@@cindybuck8994 I've also put coloured duct tape stripes on my black suitcases and use purple luggage tags.

[@ulvesparker]

Some good tips. Thanks, again. "Hidden" documents pouch. It is lightweight, washable, and discreet when worn around the neck, or as a belt within my waistband. Mostly it keeps my critical ID, passport, boarding pass, and cash next to my body at all times and hands free at inspections minimizing the chance of loss. Peace of mind. I am not that worried about corrupt TSA but more with inspectors in sketchy developing countries, especially typically macho parts of the world. Mainly, I do not travel with anything valuable. The few items that I care about are in my clear (see through), brightly coloured safe pouch, and the six items in it are listed and photographed. One thing that I think helps is to be organized at every stage. An orderly bag makes it easier to detect when something is disturbed or missing, and deters random thievery. With the exception of seasonal or special excursion/activity items, I pack (or remain packed) the same for every trip whether 3 days or 3 weeks. I might only deviate from this for an overnighter. Cold weather obviously necessitates more layers and appropriate boots. My clothes are in 3 nearly weightless silicone nylon packing cubes, plus a similar toiletry kit. My one alternative pair of shoes is in a shoe bag, and the dead space inside my shoes have long narrow pouches filled with my socks, specialty socks, and..... drier sheets (that deodorize and can be used in a tumble drier if available). Each packing cube is labeled and they fit neatly into my travel rolling carry-on with backpack straps, side carry handle, shoulder sling strap ( 4 different carry options for various conditions). I also use a bag within a bag within a bag system (like a Russian matrushka doll) for when I know I need extra gear/clothes/cargo on the return trip. My core luggage is the same, the bag I described which is carry-on size. But I sometimes I carry, folded flat inside my carry on bag, a rectangular military cordura bag which is the max allowable suitcase size. This helps a lot for when I shop on the road or carry bulky items. I also have a nifty roll-up garment bag for my suit and dress shoes. This can fit in my carry-on also, as I reserve about half the space for things I might bring back. And finally, there is my hand baggage which is 90% of the time my trusty old Osprey daypack. It has a 6 litre hip pack which I have clipped onto the top as a brain. And inside the Osprey pack is a Fjällreven shoulder (my "possibles") bag which serves as an organizer. In turn, this backpack can even fit into my carry-on also when I am comfortable that I won't need anything but my water and my music for like the home bound leg of my journey. Speaking of "possibles bag", I carry an extra little silicone-nylon zipper pouch for TSA and I put my keys, wallet, watch, rolled up belt, folding toothbrush (pre-toothpasted), packet of wet wipes, rolled up ear phones, and polar bear Pez dispenser into it before security so that nothing is loose in the bins. I place this pouch, my travel documents secure organizer, and my water flask with lid open in one bin, laying my jacket on top. Travel locks are next to useless IMO. Besides TSA, almost anyone can buy a TSA master key online, cheaply. But also, those little travel locks are so chintzy one can snap it off with a butter knife (which I have when I lost my key). The only thing a baggage zipper lock might do is slightly deter/delay a casual thief and let you know that someone busted your lock. Cheap plastic zip ties serve the same purpose, and there is a hi-vis orange lockout tag variant used by electrical safety inspectors with an official looking "Do Not Use" tag. More useful during travel, I think, is one of those retracting cable locks. I secure my bag in waiting areas, trains, ferries, hotel luggage storage, and even wifi cafes where I might leave for a sec to grab a quick sugar packet or might doze off while relaxing. I have one with a motion detector alarm built-in which is also handy as a hotel room door handle warning alarm. This cable lock can serve as a distinct luggage tag by just affixing a sticker label (and cover all but the name with another sticker for opsec). I sometimes use the wire cable in a loop to hold my jacket next to my luggage hands free. There are perhaps 5 other applications as a personal defense device. Air tags. One hidden in each bag.

[@avanya4278]

I'm new to all you said.. Do you have a link where to purchase all them ?

[@Dan-qm7ho]

Before going through the screener.... Make certain you placed your security pouch and contents securely in a carry on or under seat bag... Either wise the security agent will have you remove the security pouch right there in the open from your waist or neck in public... Then after you board the plane go to the toilet and replace the security pouch back on your waist or neck in private.....

[@irina8677]

Wow, great tips, thank you for the effort of writing them down! I would copy and save these tips into my notes if this app would allow it. I'll try to remember them. Thanks again!

[@cookielee7490]

I use colorful handle grippers on my hand carry and suitcases to differentiate from others . Another way of preventing TSA “mishandling” your valuables is to pack them inside clear ziplock and then a colorful or pattern bag…. Lessons learned from losing quite a few items going through US TSA lines in the busy LAX, NY airports…

[@vanessabanyas164]

I’m really taken aback by this video. I’m beginning to feel that desire to travel is actually dangerous. You’re talking about actual theft while in line never mind pickpockets at your destination! It’s easy to get distracted, especially if you’re traveling with children and now you have to worry about being robbed? This is too much.

[@cijmo]

The time to put your jewelry, keys and other small items into a pouch in your luggage is when you get to the airport. When I get there, I stop at some seats and start "stripping". I even put my jacket/sweater in my carry on...sometimes I put it in my checked luggage as I won't need them on the plane. Everything small goes into one pouch so I've only got my suitcase to put in the bin, then electronics in another bin. That's it.

[@bryanaveri6816]

When I go through airport security, they make me face away from them and I cannot see my belongings. When I turn to try to keep an eye on them, I am told to only look ahead, this is crazy. TSA could be putting a bomb in my stuff and I would not know it. Most of them work for minimum wage, and I don't trust any of them. And I am a Commercial Pilot.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

I put my watch, wallet and my phone in my bag. I cover my checked bag in random strips of coloured duct tape, and I make sure the tray with my laptop goes through last. I still get my bag searched 50% of the time, because I carry so much electronic stuff for work.

[@lourdesreeves6328]

While returning home from Europe this past Thursday and going through TSA-Pre in the Atlanta airport, I was not allowed to keep my passport with me. Since my bag was already scanned, I had to place it in a bin by itself. I was extremely nervous as I was moved 2 entry points away from the scanner. I was able to retrieve my passport and had it checked as valid afterwards. Also, about your bottle opener - I had one before boarding a train in Madrid and was pulled aside for a luggage check. My bottle opener was confiscated by security because of the size and having a blade. Said bag did not cause any issues in neither of the US airports I had visited before flying to Europe. I want to thank you for preparing me as a single traveler as I usually travel with my husband and kids.

[@GarthVonMaraner]

I could imagine your anxiety being far from your passport. Soon after the document and boarding pass check, I would place my passport, pass, and wallet in my personal item (sling bag). I almost lost my boarding pass by putting it in the bin and the TSA noticed it when he was putting away all the bins.

[@charlescarmichael1124]

That's not legal. There is ZERO reason to take your documents away from you. They will pass through a body scanner without setting it off. Also if you're a US citizen it is illegal to refuse you entrance if you declare yourself. That's coming from a border patrol agent 6 days ago!!

[@vickieskinn9641]

My husband is an inventor of expensive guitars. He's the only one in the world that makes those guitars. And one was stolen from the baggage department at a airport port. It was immediately sold to a unsuspecting buyer. And the guitar has to come back to us occasionally for maintenance. My husband cracked the theft ring at the airport baggage department. He carefully tracks all of his creations. His creations are one of a kind. And sought after by the music community. Very proud of him for cracking the theift ring. Not all baggage departments have scrupulous employees. But it does make you think about what's in your baggage. There is a market for lost luggage. Millions of pounds per year. If you don't want your stuff lost. Better be taping your address all over it. God bless all your journeys.

[@soothingstories]

@@vickieskinn9641 I would like to learn more about the guitars! So glad he cracked the theft ring.

[@soothingstories]

Yeah, female travelers are more vulnerable. TSA see them as easy pickings or a good punching bag to yell at or make an example of.

[@kamalakrsna]

Yes TSA agent stole money from me a few times . Once i noticed it & it got found - another time @ SFO airport i didnt notice till my next stop & called back to SFO 'TSA' office - no help. 3 months ago @ Haneda airport in Tokyo they took my money /passport /vry important documnts out of bottom of my carry-on day pack. I discovered this while waiting 4 connecting flight. BIG trouble/ problems - 2 police took me by private elevator back to the check point & one agent (there were about 7 agents standing round) gave mt my "rf-blocking" pouch ... why they took out & held for a few hours ? Why i had to go thru SO MUCH anxiety about "who stole my IMPORTNT documnts rf-id block pouch" - now i need to cancel trip .. whats going on ??? My conclusion: travel as light as humanly possible - buy what yu need when yu get there & abandon/giv away stuff when yu return. Tnx un2 the religion of peace 4 all this troubles on a world wide extent. TREMENDOUS waste of money. SO MANY troubles

[@rosab6259]

I highly recommend TSA Pre. It is worth the money and time since everything goes way faster on that line but unfortunately it only works in The US. Now, Heathrow Airport security in London and the Airport in El Salvador are very hardcore and will search through every little thing you carry in your luggage.

[@HariSeldon913]

If you're going to UK and El Salvador, you might want to go the rest of the way up to Global Entry.

[@breezybird403]

I had no trouble passing the PSA precheck. The fee was $78. However, my adult son's status is pending. Even though it is his fault, in the past he did jail time for petty theft and a small amounts of drugs. I am wondering if he will receive Pre-Check at all..

[@charliefoxtrot5001]

Get Global Entry instead of TSA Pre. Global Entry costs only $22 more and includes TSA Pre.

[@marcietownsend3635]

El Salvador: they made me sit in a chair and take my shoes off and a woman literally went through every milimeter of my footwear. I felt sorry for her.

[@greebo6549]

Even though my suitcase is generically black, I store a photo of it on my phone, I put an AirTag inside to hopefully track it, but also have a suitcase strap in a bright contrasting colour with my name embroidered on it in large letters…. Makes it so much easier to spot 😊

[@kathyphillips1272]

Around 2009ish, the security screening back then took 2 pair's of expensive sunglasses that i had deliberately put at the very top of my handbag so i would notice them if they were to go missing by some off chance, which was an intuitively inspired action for some reason, & thankfully i didn't ignore it. Upon raising the alert that my sunglasses were missing, as well as saying it out loud enough to draw attention to the situation, they kept on saying over & over again that they would take my details and if the items showed up they would call me. Hell nooo...not a chance, they were there a moment ago i know because i put them at the top of my bag so i could see immediately if they went missing, so i kept insisting that they call the Feds because i wasn't about to go anywhere until both pairs were handed over. By this stage, one of them appeared quite nervous and they kept trying to get me out of there for obvious reasons, so i said i was camped there until they handed them over. They began looking between the trays...🙄 SERIOUSLY !?!?!? Sunglasses are bulky items, especially when both pairs were in their proper cases. How they thought that they'd get stuck between the stacked trays is beyond me. Just by that action alone, confirmed who the culprit was right there. They became quite frantic that i wasn't budging or about to be hushed up with some insane BS routine spiel about taking my details and getting back to me if they turned up. The culprit was infact the team leader that day and they called me into the tiny office which was just off to the side of where they were screening... and that's when i said i would call the Feds to investigate a theft and put in a formal complaint with their supervisor of airport security if necessary... and if i needed, i would go even further...eg: social media or on one of those current affair type of programs that were on air back then. Little did i realise back then what i know now !!! 😐 As it turned out, the security leader made out like she was looking through the desk drawers for a pen or something and then miraculously found both pairs of sunglasses would you believe and stupidly asked if they were mine...🙈 Thankfully, i got both pairs back and still managed to catch my flight. That was definitely at Brisbane Airport and around 2009 if memory serves correctly. There was an escalator immediately after going through the domestic flight screening process, so once you're done and get on the escalator, good luck getting back down if it's still the same now as it was back then. It really pays to have more time up our sleeve to be we'll prepared and to check all our items before we leave the security screening area ! These day's it's easier for me to put everything into a carry on🧳which has a pin code lock as well as a padlock and put the one 🔑 in the tray that has a decent size novelty key ring attached to it so it's not easily hidden..and that's it, if they want to search, then they can give a valid reason and search it in front of me. At Melbourne airport, security attempted to take my bags away to search them and i had to call out for the Feds again. I told them that they could search my bag's not a problem there, but it had to be done in front of me or i'd have to involve the Feds. We can't simply accept everything they say, we must question everything and know our rights back to front nothing less, it's up to us.

[@Jane-yg3vz]

I flew out of Heathrow a month ago and they instructed us to not remove our liquids bag from our carry-on luggage and they wouldnt allow me to keep my passport in my hand while going through the scanner. I had to put it under my bag in the bin and hope that it was on the other side when I picked it up. It was.

[@easygal77]

Never held my passport in my hand ever at any airport, always in coat pocket or bag. As for LHR you must've been at one of the new scanners (they are few and far between but great)

[@MrVenona]

I've been hassled by security when I held my passport in my hand. I've also been hassled by security when my passport was the only thing in my pockets. These morons act like a passport is some kind of nefarious object.

[@kellypickle]

Yes, it happened to me told me I had to take my necklace off and put it in the bag. Put it in the bag it went through and when I picked it up, it wasn’t in there and they just denied denied deny and I had to leave I was going to my grandmother‘s funeral. The problem was, it was a handmade item that was a gift from someone. Got back home had to ask that artist to make me another one so the person who gave it to me would not know.😢

[@jeanneardinger3664]

Yep same thing but my moms funeral

[@Travelclosely]

If you're into the black color like me ( black or dark suitcase). You can always decorate it with stickers, use a suitcase cover or a colorful luggage strap. But my favorite is to use many travel 🧳 stickers

[@leejuhsu]

I use bright color scarfs or tapes to wrap the handle!

[@Travelclosely]

@@leejuhsu yes that a bright idea :)

[@yaowsers77]

I followed a bunch of your tips for my last couple of trips including my first big one to London and everything went so smoothly. Thank you!

[@JosephMcGinley-ne9ni]

To also prevent TSA staff steeling your items, when I go on holiday, mostly in Europe. I used a heavy duty A4 zipper bag, with some modifications, like attaching a steel punch hole, which allows me to put through security wire. The security wire is attached to my ruck-bag with a pad lock. Another thing you could do, on the A4 zipper bag, you have a label with a message: ITEMS IN THE ZIPPER ARE PROTECTED WITH UNIQUE SMART WATER. Now the TSA person wont have an idea if its protected or not, but should be enough to put them of from tampering with your items

[@AnthonyScott_Little_Black_Duck]

During my last trip to the Philippines via Doha, Qatar I had one of the most brightly colored suitcases on the line. I had also had made some unique patches on my backpack that made it clear to whom it belonged. Also my laptop has some stickers on it that make it obvious to whom it belongs although I had to swap out one of them. I have a pacemaker now and generally TSA is pretty nice with me. Also I tend to use my backpack every day at the range so I have to really check it for anything firearm related.

[@katechen9458]

When I travelled this year in Asia, a few airports did not allow me to hold my passport. I didn't need to remove my apple watch in many places, but in one place, the lady touched my apple watch (I turned off "always on") display to check. None of them asked me to take my ipad out or had concern about my lotion/cream in the pocket of my bag even though I had a liquid bag inside my carry-on suitcase.

[@MartianSolarbuddy]

When flying out of Manta, Ecuador, security agents rifled my carryon and extracted a Kindle Oasis. I had been reading it minutes before going through the line, and looked for it a few minutes later on the other side. Gone. I went back immediately and challenged each of them. “Hey, have you taken my electronic device? Where is it?” Nobody would meet my eyes. They gave no response more than looking down and shaking their heads. That’s when I knew they were all in on the thieving.

[@renferal5290]

I'm so glad the airport I fly out of has the latest scanner and I don't have to take anything out of my bags

[@DavidIke07]

The amount of radiation it emits must be off the charts.

[@renferal5290]

@@DavidIke07 I just might look that up to see. I never thought about that

[@rickgonzalez1218]

What airport?

[@shana4604]

One close to where I live at is the same way so I was shocked. Flying out of a different one this time so hope they have it too. It did make a big difference because I was able to leave my liquids bag and my electronics in my backpack

[@RebeccaLMorgan]

I've been flying for over 5 decades and I have NEVER put my liquids out in the tray. I have them in a baggie in my personal bag, ready to get out if TSA asked, but they have never asked. I never put loose items in the tray. My phone, Apple watch, passport, etc., all go in the outside zipper compartment of my personal item. Then no one's sticky fingers can easily snatch them. And lastly, I put a business-card-sized sticker with my professional photo and my cell # on the front and back of my laptop, iPad, and slapped all over my suitcase. It helps people know it is not theirs! (You can have them made at Vistapriint,) I cover these in clear shipping tape to protect the stickers. Only once did someone take my suitcase with my face plastered all over it when I landed in New Zealand by someone picking up a similar bag for a relative. The baggage office called them (their similar sized and color bag was left at baggage claim) and this was the story). How did they miss my face dozens of times on the suitcase? I have no idea.

[@comboga]

Thank you for addressing this. Travelers really need to know this.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks! I think so, too.

[@JT-st9yj]

Great video thanks!

[@DevilCruz13]

Actually that particular bottle opener you’re holding up is prohibited in carry on bags because it has a “knife”. Even though it’s just a foil cutter it is considered a blade.

[@davesaunders7080]

You can get the design with the little rollers that cut the foil, that is fine when I have gone thru security many times.

[@ameliaandes797]

Installing a protective net on the bins to cover personal property would definitely deter some thefts.

[@DavidIke07]

TSA would never allow that, it will cut into their profit margins. lol

[@SharonRepici]

That could really slow down the lines, especially during peak flying times.

[@susanwexler6983]

Although I have TSA pre-check, I was required to remove my short boots. And people need to remember that security requirements in different countries may be different than those in the U.S.A. I got yelled at in India for not including my charging cords in the bin. There were no signs indicating their requirements. They also confiscated a pair of children's scissors that can barely cut paper. It can be a very frustrating process but we always need to try to be patient.

[@soothingstories]

Yeah, in Finland you can now have a liter of liquid with you, but you can't be disabled if you travel on Finnair unless their employees approve of your story and decide you are the proper weight to fly.

[@jancaulfield3549]

Accidentally left my bag in Dubai airport during the scrum after Covid to get through to the train They couldn’t have been more helpful. Bag taken to security, contents photographed which I had to identify when I picked up. Well Done Dubai !!!

[@charliefoxtrot5001]

Get Global Entry instead of TSA Pre. Global Entry costs only $22 more and includes TSA Pre.

[@wasabiginger6993]

TSA started stealing from it's inception ... I first heard of many years ago over $10K worth of Nehihau shell leis were stolen from an unsuspecting local Hawaiian artist who relies on his art to survive.

[@briansalsbery9968]

Do you leave the passport in the RF sleeve when carrying it through the scanner?

[@dpej5167]

Most airports prefer you to remove RFID from your passport before checkin & security. It slows down the process. Re-cover when seated.

[@Zerobar78.]

Thanks for the advice on international airport security, I'm making my 1st international trip this year so I have a lot to learn about safely traversing these different airports.

[@tammypearson4500]

TSA Cares is a great program! Our granddaughter is autistic/non-verbal and the TSA agents are very sweet with her, recognizing she must be assessed differently. Makes a huge difference, as she isn't overstimulated. Happy Sunday, Megan!

[@lesliehyde]

TSA cares is quite an excellent program...... when the agents understand what things need to be changed for the individual who requested assistance from the program. Luckily for me, I opt to use the program for the few times I do fly as I am not only on the Autism spectrum (quite high functioning) but I also have severe chronic pain as well as having to wear custom leg braces so I opt to be strip searched as I am able to hand over my clothing so the agent can feel them up all they want as I'm not in them (lol).

[@kenbrown2808]

I'm a volunteer in another branch of public service, and I've actually had training in recognizing and not aggravating autism spectrum reactions. it's good that awareness is increasing.

[@mountaingirl2222]

Thank you for mentioning this. I am an adult autistic female and verbal, but I get overwhelmed with sensory issues going through security checkpoint. I have only flown by myself a handful of times, but I have more often than not been yelled at and/or have to be patted down, searched, and wand scanned. I become non-verbal around authority figures and especially the TSA because I am over-stimulated, anxiety ridden, as well as unable to follow instructions because my brain feels like it shuts down and then I become non-verbal. Last year a TSA agent was yelling at me when I was putting my items in bins, asking me if some stuff in a bin in front of mine were my items. They weren't, but it took me several seconds to process what the woman was asking me and then by the time I was able to shake my head "no", the person who owned the items showed up. After that, I saw the agent go around to another agent who was processing people through the body scanner. I ended up being patted down, scanned with a wand, and my bags were searched. I hate being touched by anyone and even though I tried very much to hold myself together, I began crying, only to be yelled at even more. I remember the agent asking why I was acting like a toddler due to my tears and uncontrollable stimming movements. I have to fly alone in a couple of days from now and I filled out an application for TSA Cares. I hope that I can get that help and that I can figure out what I need to do at the airport to be able to maybe have a smoother experience.

[@protoclown2k]

I had the same exact bottle opener taken by TSA after successfully flying on 15+ flights with it in my carry-on. After telling him the same thing you said, I didn't want to argue with him anymore. He was adamant it was not allowed. This was in the TSA-Pre line too.

[@vinyalonde]

Very helpful -- thanks. I had not heard about the last one, being distracted in the security check area.

[@Vegas.777]

I always buy a colorful suitcase and at security I'm usually traveling with someone else one of us goes through the body scanner and the other stays behind with the bags that way one of us has eyes on our bags at all times.

[@jaypee5633]

I always try to do this with my husband but he just gets so anxios and flabergasted that it's almost easier to travel with a 4 year old! 😄

[@Vegas.777]

@@jaypee5633 😂

[@tomunderwood4283]

Great idea.

[@djsandvig1]

I send my luggage on ahead of me right to the hotel…..UPS does this . I dress in “soft clothes” with no metal anywhere , I carry my I-Pad and phone in a valise , I will only fly in first class , I will NOT eat airline food. I paid to get the TSA credentials This will NOT prevent some satin jacketed pervert from feeling you up….looking at you DTW “Authorities”. Air travel used to be exciting, special even elegant. Now it’s like traveling on a hell bound slum bus. Needless to say I only fly when I have no other option. I’m an old man and I remember how it used to be.

[@barryfletcher7136]

My wife had a bottle of very expensive prescription medication stolen at airport security,

[@PortableProfessional]

That is definitely not good! Hope you were able to replace it and continue your travels.

[@barryfletcher7136]

@@PortableProfessional She was on her way home so it wasn't a problem, but thank you.

[@shana4604]

🤬that just burns me up! Meds cost too much for these working thieves to take.

[@barryfletcher7136]

@@shana4604 The medication were stolen exactly because they were expensive.

[@Nomadicshieldmaid75]

In India they stole My obsidian Crystals . CLAIMING i could kill someone, while smiling putting them in his pocket.

[@PerriesPassport]

I totally know what you mean! Great video~

[@PortableProfessional]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@NickGorton]

I had my passport taken at the TSA in JFK years ago. Making a loud stink at the time helped and my passport was "found" after a few minutes.

[@user-gv7ig1jx8l]

Very good information 🙏

[@howcotube]

Thank you Megan for you tips and links ! As I will be traveling next month I will be thinking of you and your tips as we approach the security check. I do have Beatles luggage which is easy to spot (huge Beatles fan) and Beatles stickers to alert me of my stuff !! I was shocked to see a TSA agent stealing but they are human after all -sad but true. I was happy to see Ollie in your video today, and we adopted a cat last month and named him Ollie or Oliver !!! So as always I enjoy your videos and seeing you too !! Be well, Howard

[@mademsoisellerhapsody]

I’m human and I don’t steal. No excuse

[@howcotube]

@@mademsoisellerhapsody understand. I just meant that we seem to put these TSA agents in a hight regard but alas, some will steal and that is a shame.

[@lepoidevinhendy]

I really love your taste and style always so chic. My faves would be the kislux leather backpack and the Swarovski pave diamond ring so gorg. Thank you for your recommendations.

[@887363]

I travel with questionable items occasionally. I have learned take them out of my bag so that TSA doesn't have to search my whole bag

[@HighMaintenanceMinimalist]

Questionable how? 🤔

[@DevilCruz13]

I travel with “questionable” items all the time as well and I leave it in plain view…TSA doesn’t even bat an eye and they never have to do a secondary check 😎

[@ashleyclemons7061]

They will still do a random check

[@renee4495]

Me too. I travel with two foldable metal hangers. Apparently they must look like nunchucks on a scanner. So I pull them out and put in bin.

[@michaelatherton826]

I had a scary few minutes in the Hong Kong airport when the police got upset about a small "multitool" (whistle/window breaker) that I've been carrying for a couple years. In Minnesota you want a window breaker in case you slide off into a ditch during a snowstorm and I've been concerned since John Nash and his wife were killed in a taxi accident on the NJ Turnpike. I didn't understand their concern because airplane windows are acrylic and I don't see that the tip is any more of a weapon than a metal pen. I've even gone through the U.S. Capital building security with it and many airports. But as the translator said, "This is Hong Kong." I wasn't about to argue. They kept it, did a lot of paperwork and took photos. I don't carry one with me anymore (there's a less obvious window breaker and no one gets concerned about stand alone whistles)!

[@birbluv9595]

Wow, what a scary situation! I’ve never been through Hong Kong. Sounds like a nightmare!

[@michaelatherton826]

@@birbluv9595 It was my first time in Hong Kong and I had no idea what was going to happen. I just stayed clam and waited it out. I already had the U.S. Consulate number in my phone, but I wasn't sure if you get a phone call or not! One important thing to keep in mind is that in many Asian countries raising your voice is a no no.

[@lourdesreeves6328]

Arguing period, is a no-no when it comes to authority in any country

[@michaelatherton826]

@@lourdesreeves6328 Sometimes you can argue politely with money, but you need to know the local social conventions. I used to scuba dive (in Mexico) with a Mexican American friend who always seemed to be able to ease out of traffic stops with no ticket. At times I'll argue with U.S. authorities depending on the context (it can be tricky and you need to know the laws and the limit you can push), but you're right in most all countries it's not a good idea. My current rule for U.S. TSA is to pretend I'm in a Third World country, except for the greased the palm route. A TSA agent doesn't need to follow their rules, they have final say. Three bad experiences is enough: third world! A friend of mine got really pissed when they tried to confiscate a zippo lighter that his troops had given him in Vietnam. A female supervisor was still going to take it, when the original agent suggested he go back into the terminal and mail it to himself.

[@cookielee7490]

I got mine confiscated as well a few years ago but then we have to respect their law especially after what happened during the social incidents like Jan 6th in DC… Just like no chewing gums in Singapore and no CBD items in most of rest of the world😊… don’t forget to check the TSA 2024 rules as it is going to be more strict

[@SwampSquatch70]

I travel frequently with my work. I obtained my TSA Precheck about 3 years ago. Totally worth it. I used my United Airlines points to pay for it.

[@davesaunders7080]

I bring a dollar corkscrew similar to yours although it has the little foil cutter wheels rather than the small knife so if security flags it no big deal. Now the last 4 trips to EU , 2 departing Toronto and back from Lisbon, and Paris never was an issue @ security screening.

[@kconway2263]

Years ago, I stuck my license in my back pocket before going through the body scanner, not thinking anything of it. Luckily, I didn’t get patted down or anything, but I got my hands swabbed for explosive residue. I have precheck now, but I won’t make that mistake again. Edit: I broke the two hour rule one time at a small airport, thinking it wouldn’t be crowded. They were down to one scanner, and it was a nightmare. We were basically waiting in line until it was time to board and then being rushed through security and running to our gate. Absolute chaos.

[@2QuartersKorean]

I always watch my stuff while security is watching it, touching it or just standing next to it

[@teachtravelthrive]

These are really good tips! Thanks 👍🏽

[@PortableProfessional]

You're so welcome!

[@Fegga1955]

Thank you

[@salemyousef682]

Thank you. Couple things were stolen from me in Florida

[@snowbike8032]

As always, wonderful video! I love how concise you are and the content is super valuable! I've seen many carry on bags that are highly rated but I'm always disappointed that they don't have back pack straps. Any recommendations? Thank you so much

[@redhatbear1135]

I got mine from LL Bean years ago. Both carryon and checked have hidden straps that I can take out and use. Since I’ve never had a Sherpa to handle my checked bag, those straps have not been used😅

[@caroleanne8529]

Our suitcases are by High Sierra. They come with a back pack that zips onto the suitcase and both have padded back pack straps in a zippered compartment. The backpack is our personal item and the suitcase is a carry on. We love those suitcases.

[@redhatbear1135]

@@caroleanne8529 sounds like the next generation from mine, and yes love them!

[@sandiehay4965]

Great ideas that I'll need to start following. I guess I've been lucky so far. Love your dog. Looks like a cockapoo?

[@PortableProfessional]

Close, Ollie is a goldendoodle. Great guess!

[@terrifromm5085]

Hi Megan. I purchased an RFID Crossbody bag with an RFID wallet. Do those items need to be scanned separately going through TSA or can I keep them in my personal carry-on bag? Thank you!

[@birbluv9595]

I’m going to be flying domestically this summer, and watching the TSA mess in this video just makes me nervous. I did not want to have to fly again, but I can’t drive that distance any more, and there is a problem now with me taking my old standby, Amtrak. I appreciate your videos, Megan, and have figured out on my own many of your excellent tips during my crazy travel days of 2009-2019. I’ve always been conscious of theft, but in all of society it’s gotten much worse since the pandemic.

[@colleenmarin8907]

What happened that you can't take Amtrak?

[@caroleanne8529]

Megan is talking about worst case scenarios. Many thousands of people go through TSA without any problems and most travelers are honest. Read the post (above) by @robertallison1580. He has some very good ideas regarding keeping valuables safe. It truly is a shame that people who are hired to assure that we are safe are those we need to watch out for. Have a great trip.

[@birbluv9595]

@@colleenmarin8907 i am heading to Schenectady, NY. There is supposed to be a 30-minute stop in Albany before continuing 20 minutes to Schenectady. I asked my brother if he could pick me up at the Albany station, which he has done before, but now he refuses. When i went up last September, the train stayed in Albany 1 hr 20 minutes. No crew was onboard (it being a crew change station), and the passengers in my car went crazy. I could not go out because I didn’t trust leaving my luggage with him, and i have disabilities that make lugging my bags back and forth, up and down stairs, difficult. I have hypersensitivity to all forms of smoke and dust, and people had been smoking (tobacco and weed) in the restroom by the exit and just outside the exit. The people were also drinking and extremely loud. I felt sick and had a smashing headache by the time we reached Schenectady. When we got to Schenectady and i told my brother what had happened, i asked again for him to drive the hour-long round trip to the Albany-Rensselaer station, and he again refused. So when i got back home to Virginia, i changed the beneficiary of my $120,000 Roth IRA from him to a good friend who could use the tax-free money. This is what senior citizens can do to get the last laugh.

[@Kitsambler]

In Europe (at least in Frankfurt), e-book readers (Kindles and their cousins) count as "large electronics" that need to be removed from the bag. If you don't do it, they will do it for you. In a separate bin. That you don't know about. Don't ask me how I know this.

[@stephenkern5784]

Frankfort is a gulag airport. Will never go there again. They treat you like a criminal

[@letterbox203]

The worst part is that I go to that Miami airport yearly to visit my niece. Maybe I should start flying in to Fort Lauderdale? Thanks Megan for all your helpful tips and keeping us safe!

[@cavgrey8]

Miami at the luggage carousel is a nightmare. Be wary of luggage thieves.

[@burkestorti4586]

I attach bright neon color highly reflective stickers (sold for use on hard hats) on my bags. This makes them stick out & easier to find in a large group of luggage such as on a carousel or placed in a group of luggage after a cruise.

[@oldgoat50]

I got one for you. Just got a SCS and wonder if any other travelers have flown with one?

[@jaypee5633]

While boarding a train in Spain, the passenger behind me was pushing me, phisically pushing me. the content of my purse ended up spilling, phone, money and passport, underneath the conveyor belt. Turns out, we had another 30 minutes before the train was leaving and we were only 10 ppl in line. I waited until they cleared security and scrolled down the conveyor to retreave my things. I find most passengers more agressive and rushed than absolutely necesary.

[@zareegoraya1528]

Ul ways used a few coloured thick ribbons on suitcases snd similar ones on additional baggage.

[@wms1530]

My wallet was at the bottom of my carry-on bag immediately before a TSA search. Didn't notice it was gone until the next time I opened the bag, when we were about to land. Apart from the lost money and cards, it completely ruined our touring holiday because I couldn't get our hire car without my Driving License. Made a crime report to the airport police, but heard nothing further.

[@shea5702]

I had a knee replacement and always have to go through the body scanner and then physically searched. Any suggestions for keeping track of my electronics?

[@anthony7777]

It would be interesting traveling with you! 😊

[@vandpunktsverigevstpse1558]

I use to go via Charles de Gaules in Paris too but has NEVER experienced that chaos you mention. Its because I have 100% focus of my belongings. Omg....

[@SusanSmith-hl3iv]

❤❤❤ Great tips! I once had a plain navy cloth suitcase. I used small bottles of acrylic paint in red and white to mark random designs on my suitcase. This is even better than a sticker because that paint is permanent. It was easily the most recognized bag in the airport. A friend used this method on a cruise and saved his luggage as he spotted it being left behind on the dock as the cruise ship began to move away. 😊

[@shana4604]

Ok now you’re scaring me. So far I’ve never had any issues with cruises but we’re going on another one next spring so I need to prepare 😂

[@richardpoland4074]

Hi Megan, good tips but at the end of the day how do you stop TSA agents from stealing your belongings. I worry about delay where belongings unattended while I wait to go through TSA line. Seems like TSA could do more after belongings get scanned to prevent someone from taking off with your belongings. I get the sense they don't care at best or they are stealing your belongings at worst. Good tip about separating before going through TSA so one of your party can look after your belongings but that doesn't help me as I am a solo traveler.

[@camiller4916]

See comment above by airline pilot

[@LynnStAubin-od5qe]

I just came through O’Hare yesterday. Why do they screen us facing away from the conveyor. I watched a young employee step between the screener and conveyor as he looked into the bins. Blocking any view you might have. I also have global entry but because my emergency flight was booked through Swiss Air, they said they have no such program and couldn’t print it on my tickets. I was able to scan my global entry to pass into the first line but then still made to remove my shoes and be fully scanned rather than walk through. Gotta love air travel 🤨

[@zareegoraya1528]

I ready figured that out , esp in places where they take you behind a screen to check your body… very strange.

[@debbiemcdonald394]

When traveling with my husband, I go through security first since he always sets off an alarm due to his past surgeries. That way I can keep an eye on our possessions on the end of security while he watches it as it goes through the X-ray machine.

[@TheFinktron]

I never worry about anyone mistaking my bag for theirs, because I had a hard shell, bright orange piece of luggage that no one else seemed to have. Unfortunately, someone else did have one, which I picked up and didn’t check carefully to make sure it was mine. I ended up having to make a 45 minute trip back to the airport in order to return that bag and get mine.

[@roychastain2958]

On Feb. 7, 2024, the TSA agent conficated my (very small) corkscrew. When I filed a complaint, the response was that corkscrews are not allowed in carry on bags. This was in Sacramento, CA; maybe Canada is different?

[@luannsuekindem7377]

I bought stencils and fabric paint to paint designs on my luggage for easy identification.

[@JBG1968]

My daughter bought me a nice black small roller suitcase for my travels . I really liked it and was excited to use it . At baggage pick up I learned she got me what must be the most popular black small roller suitcase in the world . lol

[@PortableProfessional]

Hope you found it in that sea of black cases. Keep the case but add a little something to it to make it stand out. Happy travels!

[@brbz369]

Thanks for these secrets! I'll definitely put my less valuable items in the first bin for screening!

[@PortableProfessional]

You’re welcome! Safe travels.

[@mywanderways]

Thank you for this very informative video

[@PortableProfessional]

You’re welcome! Glad it was helpful.