The TSA PreCheck benefit is only available to passengers who are already enrolled in the Trusted Traveler Program and have PreCheck on their boarding pass. Passengers 12 and younger are eligible for TSA Pre™ expedited screening benefits as part of modified screening procedures for this age group. Family members ages 12 and under traveling with an eligible parent or guardian with a TSA Pre® indicator on their boarding pass can participate in expedited screening. A Child Travel Consent letter is a legal document that grants permission for minors to travel without their parents or legal guardian, ensuring that minors do not leave the country without parental consent.
Always check the airline’s change policy before booking to avoid extra costs if plans shift. Consider adding travel insurance when traveling. To check if a passenger boarded a plane, follow a simple guide with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips. Some U. S. airports allow non-travelers beyond security to see loved ones depart, and escort a friend to family members right to their gate or be there waiting when they land at these airports.
Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction. Both US and foreign-based carriers must seat families with children aged 13 and under together and for free. Airlines must confirm that parents are present. If your KTN is still active, confirm with your airline that your KTN, name, and date of birth are.
Federal laws protect airline passengers in various areas, including oversold flights, luggage mishandling, flight delays, and refunds. Airlines typically do not disclose booking information to third parties, except for immediate family members. The only way someone else can check your reservation is if they know your name, flight number, and reservation code.
An adult passenger can arrange carriage for one child under two years of age without allocating a separate seat. This guide provides information on passenger rights and responsibilities when flying.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Checking if relatives made flight | Airlines may not disclose whether or not a passenger is on a flight regardless of who paid for the flight or made the reservation. | flyertalk.com |
| Is it possible for someone to check and see if … | Airlines typically do not disclose this information to third parties, including individuals who may call and inquire about someone else’s travel … | quora.com |
| Can the airline tell someone if I have a reservation? | If the other person knows your name, airline, and the reservation number, he or she can find out the details of the flight such as departure and arrival times … | tripadvisor.com |
📹 7 TSA Secrets Never Told to Passengers (New Airport Scam!)
Must-Know Airport Security Tips and Scams in 2024. This is how to keep your luggage safe from theft at the airport and when …
Can You Verify If Someone Was On A Flight?
Airline staff are prohibited from disclosing passenger information, including who is on a flight, due to security and privacy policies. They can only provide flight status details if you have specific flight information. To find out if someone has boarded a plane, several methods are available: contacting the airline directly, checking ticket confirmations, accessing airline records, reviewing security footage, or utilizing passenger locator services.
The most reliable approach is to contact the airline’s customer service, providing the individual's booking information to verify their reservation. Although some tools and apps exist for tracking flight status, they cannot confirm if a specific passenger has boarded. U. S. law mandates that airlines operating flights to, from, or through the United States share certain information with the Department of Homeland Security, but this does not extend to disclosing individual passenger statuses to the public.
Even those closely related to the passenger may face restrictions in obtaining such information, as it raises security concerns. Other options include checking email or text confirmations from the airline, as well as utilizing online services like ViewTrip, which allows for confirmation number-based flight details retrieval. However, it remains important to acknowledge that the confidentiality of passenger information is a priority for airlines, making it difficult to ascertain if an individual has actually boarded without direct access to their reservation.
Can You Find The Name Of Someone On A Flight?
Passenger information is considered private, and only airlines and governments have access to passenger lists for specific flights. To check if someone has boarded a plane, you can inquire with the airline by providing the passenger’s name or flight number. The simplest way to confirm if a passenger is on board is to look at their ticket confirmation, which details the passenger's name, flight number, and departure and arrival locations.
Major airlines, such as American Airlines or United Airlines, can assist in checking flight details for domestic flights. However, providing the exact flight time can help the airline find the passenger on the manifest.
Despite the availability of such information, due to legal restrictions aimed at protecting privacy, airlines generally do not disclose passenger lists to individuals, and access is typically limited to law enforcement or airline personnel under special circumstances. Any inquiries made must respect privacy rules; for instance, no online access is granted to the passenger manifest. U. S. law further mandates that airlines provide certain passenger data to the Department of Homeland Security. Ultimately, unless you have direct access to airline information, finding out if a specific individual boarded a flight is quite challenging.
How To Travel With A Child That'S Not Yours?
When traveling with a child who is not yours, it's essential to carry signed and notarized consent forms from the child's parents or guardians. Consent requirements differ based on destination, making it prudent to have these documents available, even if they're not requested. For domestic travel, the ID and consent needs are less strict than for international trips, but it's wise to be prepared.
Key documents include the child’s ID and a parental consent form. Complications can arise if the child’s last name differs from yours, especially for relatives like aunts and uncles. Have proof of your identity and the child’s relationship on hand.
Additionally, for kids under 16, a birth certificate and notarized consent from both parents for international travel is crucial. Always keep a notarized letter from the child's guardians stating their permission for travel. If traveling with a child not sharing your last name, extra steps are necessary to ensure smooth airport security procedures. While there's no standard consent form, you can create one affirming that the guardians grant permission for the child to travel with you.
If a child is traveling alone or with one parent, consent from the non-traveling parent may be needed. Most importantly, all minor children must have their identification documents, such as a passport or birth certificate when traveling.
Can My Family Use The TSA Pre ® Lane?
According to TSA. gov, family members traveling with an eligible parent or guardian can utilize the TSA Pre✓ ® lanes with some limitations based on age. Children aged 12 and under can accompany enrolled parents or guardians without needing their own TSA PreCheck membership, as long as the adult has the TSA Pre✓ ® indicator on their boarding pass. However, children aged 13 to 17 must also have TSA Pre✓ ® on their boarding pass to access the expedited screening lanes.
It’s important to note that traveling together in the TSA PreCheck lane does not extend to friends or family members who are not enrolled in the Trusted Traveler Program. This means adults must already have their own TSA PreCheck membership to use the expedited lanes, and children older than 12 need to be on the same reservation reflecting TSA Pre✓ ® status. While TSA makes efforts to provide expedited screening, there are no guarantees due to varying security measures implemented at airports. In summary, only those eligible, mainly children 12 and under with a TSA PreCheck guardian, can utilize PreCheck lanes freely, while those 13 and older must be enrolled or meet specific criteria.
Can You Bring A Family Member Through The TSA Precheck Lane?
TSA PreCheck allows expedited security screening, but only for enrolled individuals. Friends, family members, or spouses who are not enrolled in the Trusted Traveler Program cannot accompany you in the TSA PreCheck lane. There is an exception for children: kids aged 12 and under can join their parents or guardians with TSA PreCheck status. However, children aged 13 and older must have their own TSA PreCheck access indicated on their boarding pass to use the expedited lane.
If a parent or guardian has TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can accompany them without needing their own membership. Family members aged 13 and above must go through standard security or enroll in the Trusted Traveler Program. Despite having TSA PreCheck, there’s no guarantee of expedited screening due to varying security measures in place.
TSA recently updated rules, allowing children aged 13-17 traveling with eligible parents to access the TSA PreCheck lane, provided they have the TSA PreCheck logo on their boarding pass. It’s essential to note that all family members, except for those 12 and under, need to comply with TSA PreCheck requirements to use the expedited lanes.
Can I Give My Plane Ticket To A Friend?
Airline policies concerning the transfer of tickets to another person vary significantly. Generally, most airlines do not permit ticket transfers, but some allow name changes for a fee, while others have stricter rules against any transfers. To transfer a ticket, one typically needs to go to the airline's website and navigate to the "Manage my Booking" or "Modify" section. However, it's essential to note that regular tickets cannot easily be gifted if you do not travel.
On the other hand, frequent flyer miles can often be used to buy tickets for others, allowing you to gift travel to someone special. Most major airlines permit purchasing tickets for others, provided you have the necessary information. You can book directly on the airline's website or through a travel agent, which is particularly useful for complex itineraries.
While buying a ticket for someone else is generally acceptable, most airlines have strict policies restricting ticket resale or transfer primarily for security and fraud prevention reasons. Therefore, refund opportunities may be limited. Ultimately, understanding the specific transfer policies of your airline is crucial, as some may offer more flexible cancellation or modification terms than others.
Which Airlines Do Not Participate In TSA?
The TSA maintains a list of airlines participating in TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs. Notably, large U. S.-based airlines Frontier and Spirit do not participate, although others like Allegiant, Air Canada, and WestJet do. TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports and accepted by over 60 airlines, including numerous national and budget carriers. However, some major international airlines and certain regional ones opt out due to cost or operational constraints.
For passengers flying with non-participating airlines like Aer Lingus, China Southern, and EgyptAir, TSA PreCheck access is unavailable. To verify if an airline participates, travelers should consult the TSA's map of participating airlines. In cases where flights are operated by non-participating carriers, even if passengers have Global Entry, they may not access TSA PreCheck lanes. While most budget airlines, such as Spirit, do offer TSA PreCheck, some low-cost carriers like PLAY Airlines do not. It's crucial for travelers to confirm their airline's participation in TSA PreCheck to ensure a smoother airport experience.
What If I Don'T Have A Valid Boarding Pass?
To access the TSA PreCheck lane, a valid boarding pass with a TSA PreCheck indicator is mandatory. Without it, no one can pass through TSA security, ensuring that only intending passengers access secure airport areas. When approved for TSA PreCheck, you receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), identifying you as a Trusted Traveler. Confirm with your airline that your KTN, name, and birth date are accurate and that they participate in TSA PreCheck. Occasionally, the TSA PreCheck indicator might not appear on your boarding pass despite being a member. If this happens, first verify that your details are correct on your reservation.
Several factors could cause the absence of the TSA PreCheck symbol. If your boarding pass lacks the indicator, don’t panic—there are ways to manage this. Printing your boarding pass at home means you avoid check-in for baggage only. Self-service bag tagging machines and kiosks are available in some airports, while most airports allow access to the main terminal without a ticket for check-ins.
If you lack identification, alternatives like a passport or Global Entry card are acceptable. While TSA is using new scanners for efficiency, a boarding pass is still essential to board your flight, whether printed or digital. In instances of loss, revisit online check-in for a new boarding pass; without sufficient proof, security access is denied.
How Do Airlines Verify Identity?
All passengers must carry physical IDs, as TSA security checkpoints require them if digital IDs cannot be verified. Options like TSA PreCheck® Touchless Identity Solution allow for identity verification without presenting physical IDs at select airports. Passengers can store their TSA PreCheck® KTN and Passport Number in airline mobile apps for convenience. Adult travelers (18 and older) must show valid identification. Starting May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs will be required for flying within the U.
S. If passengers lack acceptable ID due to loss or theft, they may still fly by providing additional information. Delta passengers can check for Delta Digital ID participation through a green icon on their mobile boarding pass. Online identity verification enables travelers to verify identities digitally using photos of government-issued IDs. Additionally, tools like Delta FlyReady SM simplify the process of verifying passport and visa requirements.
Biometrics, especially facial recognition, are increasingly employed in travel identity verification, improving security and reducing wait times. Identity verification processes involve airline staff checking IDs, while systems may utilize digital ID verification to streamline passenger flow and enhance security, benefiting both airlines and travelers by collecting and analyzing customer data.
Can I Book A Flight On Behalf Of Someone Else?
To buy airline tickets for someone else, simply select the tickets, enter the traveler's full name, date of birth, and ID details, then provide payment information. It's a straightforward process, and a step-by-step guide can help if you’re unsure. Regardless of where you purchase the ticket, you’ll need to ensure the required information is accurate. Key items include the traveler's full name and birthdate. Check with the airline regarding specific rules for unaccompanied minors and assistance for elderly travelers, if applicable.
You can buy tickets on behalf of others, often necessary for parents, spouses, or employers. It's not limited to family members; purchasing a ticket for someone in another country is also allowed, although they must have the appropriate identification to board. Most major airlines permit this type of transaction, making it easy to arrange trips for loved ones.
If you wish to use loyalty points for family bookings, this is typically permitted, but ensure proper procedures are followed. Payment methods vary, and some airlines may require the card used for payment to be presented at check-in. It's crucial to ensure the passenger's name on the ticket matches their ID.
Ultimately, buying a ticket for someone else, whether as a gift or out of necessity, is an uncomplicated task when you have the correct information and follow the necessary steps.
Can I Give My Plane Ticket To Another Family Member?
Currently, airline tickets are generally non-transferable, which means name changes on confirmed reservations are not allowed. Passengers must cancel their tickets if they cannot take the flight, although some airlines have more lenient cancellation policies than others. This variation leads to a common question: can airline tickets be transferred to someone else? The answer largely depends on the airline's policy; most do not permit ticket transfers, but some, like United Airlines, allow it under specific conditions.
Buying a plane ticket for another person is acceptable, requiring their details such as name and date of birth. Furthermore, passengers can share their miles with friends and family, transferring miles to several SkyMiles Members if desired. In cases where a flight is refunded as e-credit, the purchaser may use that credit for themselves or others, though the process can be complicated. Airlines differ on policies regarding ticket transfers or changes; some strictly prohibit name changes while others allow them for a fee.
For low-cost airlines, exceptions may apply. Generally, a ticket is linked to a specific passenger for security reasons, and most airlines typically do not accommodate ticket transfers unless under exceptional circumstances. Thus, understanding the specific airline's policy is essential for travelers.
Can You Fly With A Child That Isn'T Yours?
When traveling internationally with a child who is not legally yours, all accompanying adults require a notarized Child Consent Form, as there is no standard form available. Essential documents include the child’s birth certificate for those under 16. While domestic flights typically do not require minors to have identification, some airlines may ask for the child's birth certificate. It’s crucial to check specific entry requirements and needed documentation.
Completing both a child travel consent and a medical consent does not mean you relinquish parental rights; however, it’s vital to communicate the limits of this authorization clearly. For divorced or separated parents, copies of legal custody agreements may be necessary. Generally, if you have sole custody, you can travel freely, albeit with potential proof of custody. For domestic flights, no additional paperwork is needed for minors; the TSA has modified procedures for children under 12 years.
If children traveling with you do not share your last name, bring a notarized copy of their birth certificate. Traveling without proper documentation can lead to legal issues and delays. To ensure a smooth experience, follow these guidelines and prepare necessary documents in advance.
📹 Flight Secrets That Are Never Told To Passengers
Tune in for some flight secrets that are never told to passengers! Suggest a topic here to be turned into a video: …
TSA in Atlanta tried stealing my gaming laptop back in 2016. The agent stacked several bins on top of the bin my laptop was in and stacked them with the other bins. When I saw that my laptop bin was missing I said something to the guy, he said there was no laptop in any of the bins, I told him to let me check the bins he stacked, he said I couldn’t come behind the roped area, I yelled for a supervisor and he threatened to have security escort me out. I yelled again and actually got a police officer to come over, he checked a couple of the bins down and said there was no laptop, I told him to look at the bin about 7 down, I could see that it was raised up higher than the rest, sure as shit, there it was. I reported this to TSA but they never replied.
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.
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.
Don’t walk through security while your handbag is still on the other side, no matter how many times they tell you to go through. You are being separated from your valuables. Let others go ahead of you. I had an agent take my LV handbag off the conveyer turn his back to me, and rifle through it while constantly looking over his shoulders to see if I was still there. I was yelling at him to give it back, and with all the airport noise he just ignored me. Watch your stuff, those uniforms do not mean they are honest people.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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…
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.
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.
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
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).
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.
I’m really taken aback by this article. 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.
I had a TSA officer try and swipe my IPhone in NYC. She didn’t realize I was perusal 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.
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.
My daughter was in first class a few weeks ago, when the woman in front of her had a meltdown and had to be removed from the flight, along with her two young (embarassed) children. The woman grabbed their luggage, tossing it around to show her displeasure, and left. When the flight landed in Mexico, another first class passenger found his suitcase was not on board. If anyone around you is removing luggage, don’t look away if you’re embarassed for them. The missing bag meant the man could not enter Mexico. Heaven knows what the end of the story was for him.
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.
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.
Put ALL of your valuables in your bag BEFORE you put your bag on the x-ray rollers. Lock your bag if possible. If TSA has to look inside of your bag, they will need you to be there to unlock it. It also prevents other passengers from swiping your valuables if you’re delayed going through the body scanner.
My almost empty designer bag, placed on the top of another bag that was not completely closed, dissapeared after I passed security check for the TSA pass holders in Atlanta International Airport in December 2022. I found the bag missing 5 min later, came back, asked the workers who scanned my stuff and Lost and found just across them, emailed to the Lost and Found next day, and of course, nothing was found. I couldn’t believe myself. Fortunately took my passport and other importand things out this bag right before the security check.
I use to work with TSA, that was for about five years. I knew of the scams behind the special group who collected all rejected oversized liquid at the end of the day. I also witnessed the mishandling of passenger luggage in the lower leveled baggage screening. I can say this, the younger immature men, un supervised, would just horse around, slinging bags around. This is a reason fragile thing were not spared. We were taught how to figure out the codes to locked bags. I mean, there was a lot to know.
Always put everything into the bag preferably in a pocket or a retrieval pouch or alternate in the inside pocket of a jacket preferably zipped. Items of any kind should never lay loose on the tray. Also lock the bag with a TSA approved lock if possible, this means if they want to inspect it you will be witnessing it, it also keep other peoples long fingers out, place an Airtag inside the bag, you can place an additional one in the valuables pouch.. place sticker or other indicators on the outside. Place the toiletries that you have already packed at home in a see through 1l bag on the tray. As others said don’t go through metal detectors/body scanners before you see the bag enter the X-ray. This minimise the risk of a passenger stealing from you. Also black, grey, silver or white is no go in airports…
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.
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.😢
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.
The most chill, safe and efficient security check I’ve been through is at Arlanda airport outside Stockholm, Sweden. There they actually want you to keep everything inside your bags and jacket when it goes through the scanner (they have some advanced scanner that can see everything anyway). Anything detected to have something questionable inside that needs a 2nd screening is automatically routed to a screening area out of the way of other passengers where you can calmly talk to the security agent. If all airports had the same security screening I would like flying a lot more.
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
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.
TSA kept my security flashlight this trip. I only traveled with my carry-on. I have Global Entry, have been vetted and am secure and 68 years old. I use my security flashlight when walking if in a dangerous area or for dogs along my path in central America. I have only EVER made a sound with the tazer if followed in New Orleans returning to my hotel at night – or followed by dogs. They then stay away. It is in a carry holster. It had a cap over it, so that has to be removed if i need it for protection. He called a supervisor – it was thrown in the trash. 😢
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.
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.
❤❤❤ 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. 😊
This is real. I had this type of theft happen to me. One TSA Agent kept me distracted while another took my backpack and stole from it when he “searched it”. I did not find out what happened until I reached my destination. I filed an offical complaint of which I got a “we will look into it”, and then a “sorry nothing we can do response”. I have a friend who was pick pocketed at a busy airport. Be care full and trust no one. 🙁
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.
I’m going to be flying domestically this summer, and perusal the TSA mess in this article 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 articles, 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.
Interesting. I forget exactly what is was. But my daughter had some electronic that went missing after putting it through security at an Airport years. Ago. She was very upset…and..it’s my daughter. So..I was professional….but insistent. Looking back on it after perusal this article….. I am realizing maybe it is not an ‘accident’ that a TSA agent noticed it on the floor after I started mentioning I wanted to see security footage. Odds are…I probably never could have seen the footage… But…I was likely making it more trouble than it was worth and the ‘risk/reward’ far too high…..
I only bring my purse and jacket if needed and my husband brings just his wallet, jacket if needed, and a laptop. I’m not going to lug other things through the airport. I can understand if you have children, have pets, and a business person. Solo travelers have it harder to secure their purse/expensive things if they have to get a pat down. I have had to have a pat down and afterwards my husband had my purse over his shoulder. How did they know it was ok for him to take my purse?
If you need to use the bins you’re doing it wrong. You’re luggage usually had an easily accessible hot/easy access pocket. Should you need to empty your pockets, which should be near empty already because you’re a smart trvaler and know you’re going to the airport(right?) you shove all those items into the hot pocket and send them all through the scanner. This reduces chance of leaving anything behind and keeps your stuff grouped. Marking/tagging black bags is a must. Better yet is to not use a generic black bag. I’ve seen people grab other people’s stuff on accident.
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.
I once had a pink floral patterned suitcase my mother bought me with this kind of thinking in mind. I set it down next to the bus leaving for the city. When I got to my destination, it was GONE. Someone had stole it right out from under the nose of the person who was loading luggage unto the bus. So, so much for that theory.
I tie me a nylon chord around and through my laptop, ipad, iphone and headphone during the security check. Every item is connected to the other items so there is no chance of theft by other passengers who are milling about. Here in India the airport security personnel are para military and their recruitment screening process is so very rigorous that they look and behave like well mannered but tough athletes in uniform.
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.
Too many people have bright colors now. Sometimes I have more problems finding my purple suitcase! Last year in Houston there were 4 of the same purple suitcase on the carousel. The owners of the other purple suitcases and I had a good laugh about it. Now I use brightly colored tags on mine which usually helps.
20 years ago, TSA in Atlanta stole my $700 Sony Mini Disk Player in a conspiracy. One guy talked to me, one removed my backpack and the third person walked away. When I raised hell the moved me to secondary so the guy who walked away with it was free to go without me stopping him. I went to the airport police and tried to file a theft under color of authority report and they laughed at me. America is the biggest shit hole country on this planet earth. Nobody in this country has any moral or ethics left in their body. It’s all about me, me, me and how can I make a buck. Nobody at the TSA keeps anyone safe. Have we forgotten the undercover test at numerous airports with TSA when the test travelers smuggled hand grenades and weapons through security in 97% of all cases successfully? The TSA is the most worthless agency Bush has ever created.
I’ve always done the opposite. I pull all of my valuable items out of my bag, and place them next to it in the bin. This way there is no way an item will go missing without me noticing, and there will likely be other witnesses as well. I also don’t let my stuff go through security until I am also going through security, so it doesn’t have to wait for me on the other side. I also make a point of packing light, so it all fits neatly into one bin, so I only have to keep my eye on one bin.
I have had tsa rush me through the line and pushing me to leave my stuff, including purse, before it goes into the scanner. Made me so mad since I had cash on my purse and I told them why are they taking so long to turn the belt on to get it away people standing around my stuff when I couldn’t see it. Next time I am going to be rude and tell the pushy woman no, I am going to wait until my suff gets pulled into the xray area where no other passengers have access to my purse.
If your traveling with a wheelchair or mobility scooter remember to wipe it down before you get to security because the hand swab will go to your wheelchair walker or mobility scooter instead of your hands and likely will get flagged for expensive residue. When I shed them about why it tested positive they said some of the libertarian used on the joints of the wheelchair can have trace amounts of what they test for along with if you have used certain creams in the last 72 hours the residue can still be on the posh rims or handles. The TSA security is already so much longer for disabled people then able bodied people if your traveling with a mobility aid wipe them down so you can follow her instruction of don’t leave your stuff for too long better
If a person can land in jail for even having a single bullet in a bag or God forbid ya leave a gun… If or when a TSA, Dept of Homeland Security, is caught stealing that person be publicly ID, jailed longer then anyone who isn’t a TSA employee. Held to a higher standard or don’t hold us to any standard.
Coming back to Canada from Spain, traveling in a wheelchair and a little dog in his bag. Going through Security, they made my dog run ahead of me without his leash, he panicked and run, very chaotic. Looking after my dog, lost touch with my belongings. Phone and tablet disappeared right under the Security eyes!
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 article today, and we adopted a cat last month and named him Ollie or Oliver !!! So as always I enjoy your articles and seeing you too !! Be well, Howard
The thing with the wine opener is it’s a challenge to see in the bag if it has a knife blade. If you pull things like that out the operator can glance at it much easier. Also big plastic bags of change Here’s one more thing to look into for a article and let people know. In the US we’re getting new x-ray equipment. Some airports have already switched. These are the x-rays that look like a jet engine. With these you LEAVE EVERYTHING IN YOUR BAG! The downsides– The bag has to be a carry on. It has to fit into the bins. So no more late check in thinking you can gate check a big check-bag. Hope that make sense.
I lost my suitcase in May in Egypt…. I know i never would’ve seen it again if it wasn’t for the OUTSTANDING tour group we used…we were literally escorted through the airport and we didn’t even stand in One line. The Tour company did everything for us….and STILL my suitcase was lost. Without them, it would’ve been a loss….the airport employees were not interested in anything I had to say, it was the WELL KNOWN, HIGHLY REGARDED Tour company that were able to get my bag to me 2 days later.
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.
Current scam is the “consentual contact” interview, often conducted on the skyway between the boarding counter & the aircraft. DECLINE AT ALL TIMES. You are being casually detained with constraints of available moving space. This is a ploy to get a statement of cash holdings, followed by a civil asset forfiture. If the person gets aggressive, complain of being held against your wishes, raise a stink. Then take several photographs & promise to publish.
I have small crossbody/belt bag in which i keep my phone and money and anything small like jewelry or watches, and they are on me even during the flight . When going through security i just put that bag inside my personal item and zip it all the way to the bottom of the other side . That way they will have to open wide my personal item bag and take out the other bag inside, which will be seen by literally everyone.
My security measures with dealing with unscrupulous TSA agents or baggage thieves from accessing the items I put into the scanning bin is this. Before I put anything into the bin. I put my laptop, keys, watch, wedding ring, wallet and anything else of value or might set off the metal detector into a security backpack with a dual lockable zipper pull. Before I close the zippers tie I connect a 120 db pull-out activated personal security alarm to the zipper pull and put the alarm in the backpack before zipping it up. After the zippers are closed, I lock the closed zippers with a lock on the zipper pulls, and I use a high-quality mini lock; not the cheap plastic type. It is only after these are done will I my backpack into the bin to be scanned.
My wife recently had someone attempt to steal her Apple Watch at the security checkpoint. It was one of the agents. We know this because after she started questioning where her watch was, one of the agents put it on a table (inside the area where only the agents are supposed to be) next to where we were gathering our things. It’s sad when the people you are forced to trust with your personal belongings and valuables are the ones you have to watch out for.
I just turned 75. Several weeks ago at the TSA on our way to New Orleans, the agent said to me “Are you 75? I answered “No”. He said “Yes you are because if you are 75 you do not have to take off your shoes when you go through the TSA line!” So, I turned 75 a bit early this year! Great to know now as we go through TSA lines. I also made a vest with 4 hidden, zippered pockets in which I can keep all my most valuable items and it goes through the scanner just fine. Bon Voyage all.
I carry a quart size zip lock bag to put all my pocket items in just before I get to security and them put them in my backpack. Makes it easy to retrieve them and put back in my pockets. I also have colorful tags, locks and handle wraps for checked baggage. Same for my larger carryon in case I might have to have it checked. Never had an issue with laptop being in a case of its own. Have had items smaller than you knife taken from me at foreign airports. Both I forgot I had them, but they did get past US TSA.
We are family that love travelling so we all have different colours luggage and have ribbons on the handles of the bags. Then we do a luggage weight check before leaving the house. And have it plastic wrap and the airport before check-in. I remember on our last trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi we land in Dubai International and someone took the wrong luggage. The had similar luggage. But funnily enough out luggage is always last to come out from plane because we always arrive early for flight check – in.
What I’ve started doing is putting my wallet into my shoes (and my keys in my carry-on bag). This way the stuff is pretty much protected. I’ve also put my wallet into my carry-on bag into a compartment as well so that someone would have to open the bag and find ther compartment (which is sort of hidden in the side of the bag) to get the wallet and keys out (they would have to know that it’s there as it blends in). Personally I found this to be the most effective because nothing really gets lost. I just check quickly that the stuff is still in the carry-on bag (or backpack) before leaving the TSA area. Haven’t had a problem yet on both international and many domestic flights yet with this. About the manual search… this depends on the airport. In the two instances they wanted to check my bag, the ask me which one is mine, and then with me present they carry it over to a counter that is off to the side and they have you watch them go through the bag and they may ask you things, but again, this may depend on the airport. I only had this happen twice and both times it was done this way so my baggage never left my sight after going through the scanner, even while being searched. I somewhat don’t know where people sometimes get stuck in long TSA lines. I mean in all the flights I’ve taken, I think the longest I’ve stood in line waiting to go through security may have been 30-45 minutes but was then out and done with that area. I guess though I do NOT travel during holidays generally so that might be one possibility and maybe where people are more likely to run into long lines at TSA.
CDG is a nightmare if you don’t go through the First/Business class security check,it’s a breeze..but the chaos at the regular line is something i never had to go through..In July last year there were thousands in line,the fast check line had no one…i went through security in less than 2 minutes..The problem is so many check points before reaching your gate,and the walk from The Lounge to the gate is far and more security check…I will be flying into Orly from now on,since i don;t stay in Paris…
TCA had stolen my BOA credit card and $25 cash in MCO airport Orlando. He saw me being busy with my dog (fingerprints check) beyond the XR point. He probably thought I will never return, but I had almost 3 hours ahead of my flight, noticed missing things in the cafeteria, rushed to the police and then back to TCA . I remembered who exactly was searching my luggage. Supervisor took a good care of me, I got back $25, but not my credit card. Don’t trust TCA.
Hi! I usually go the other way, most valuable things last; 9 out of 10 times I have to wait for my stuff get out of the scanner…. I guess it´s just figuring out which scanner body or luggage is running faster… Also, since some TSA agent stole my money in JFK I always go through body scanner with my cash in my hand… if an agent complaints about this practice I usually respond something like “since one of you stole my money I keep it with me… if you want to see/count it here it is…”, usually get a “yeah… sorry about that…” and a embarrassed face…. In FCO they returned my multitool almost a pocket knife when they saw my uniform folded in my carry on… while un FRA a security agent actually set a 6 crayons limit to my kit crayons! :-)….
Rule 1/ pack your bag 3 days before the flight…lift it,,, now can you managed to walk a block or lift it up – if you can’t reconsider your choices. 2/ never take something that you would not wear at home. Take what you like, not the one thing you never have worn. 3/ pack heavy items towards the bottom. 4/ leave all expensive jewelry at home. 5/ smile at the airport and flight staff, a smile goes a long way. 6/ mark your bag, large decals or paint…. Take a photo of it. 7/ wear bulky items, coat, boots/ shoes.
Hi PP, just found your website and I love it. I travel U.S. to Asia a couple of times a year and I would love to know if there’s any way to get low-cost business class tickets. I got bumped up once and I’m a believer! What a difference on a long flight — but way too expensive. If you’ve already covered this, can you leave a link please?
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 🤨
People traveling to Miami BEWARE. My fiancé and I flew there, we checked our bags. I had an entire bag filled with boxed shoes that simply disappeared. It was a leather bag, value of the shoes about 12-1400. Fortunately, I had receipts for every pair, and he worked within airline industry, so was able to get my loss refunded, but minus the value of the bag. Not only that, he told me that the baggage handlers have free license to do just about whatever they want. The unspoken implications of that are pretty terrifying to consider.
What we do (wife and myself) is I take my time taking everything out of my pockets and putting them in the bins. As my wife goes thru screening I’ll then push her carry on onto the belt, followed by her bin of stuff, then my stuff. She’s already on the other side before anything comes out of xray, where she can watch all our belongings until I get thru. I’ll note we had PreCheck so we’re usually not in long lines.
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.
I went through Paris CDG and they told me to put my Passport in the tray with my other items, when I went through security, and retrieved my items, my passport was gone. I would not leave until I got it back, took me 20 minutes of me finally getting angry demanding my passport. Never have your passport leave your hands. Most scary thing that happened to me.
I’ve seen this happen twice to people coming back from two different countries in Europe. What our TSA allows such as manicure scissors is not allowed by Europe to come back to the US. Two ladies have their manicure/embroidery scissors confiscated. What’s good enough for the US? May not be good enough for another country TSA.
If you have a Canadian or US passport, Instead of paying for TSA PreCheck, get NEXUS instead. It’s cheaper than TSA PreCheck (at only $50USD for 5 years), but gives you free access to both PreCheck and the Canadian Verified Travellers lines, plus gets you through both Canadian and American customs faster.
I forgot to pick up my ID when checking baggage. Don’t let that happen. They were not going to let me on the flight until I found my ID. So I had to run from one end of the airport to the other to get my ID. I was traveling with my husband any child. And they wouldn’t let them go with me. They made them stand in roped off area. Immediately my son started crying. It was awful day. I made it back. And we were able to get on the flight.
It is incredible that TSA agent hired to screen your bags for security are trying to steal from you. It is scary to think that if they steal from you they could be corrupted into letting someone dangeroys on board. How are these people hired??? Is their background checked??? How do they go through being hired in the first place???
Putting thiings into large quart ziplock bags is one I had heard of but then the person who suggested it also said to tie zip ties around the bags and then use more zip ties to connect them into a series of connected bags. Taking one necessitiates taking them all out in one connected stream. you just can’t take one without the others. BTW…is this for those who fly out of Canada? Cheers to you.
I hate TSA with a fiery passion. They regularly destroy and steal stuff just because they can. Nowadays I just travel extremely light, even internationally. No suitcase, no carry-on aside from what fits under the seat. And none of my regular electronics. A cheap discardable smartphone, cheap discardable laptop, nothing I would be upset about losing. That poses its own problems (you’ll get effectively treated like a terrorist), but in the end at least nothing gets destroyed or stolen.
Years ago I was going through TSA, and early enough there wasn’t even a line as such. The TSA agent automatically began to direct me towards the screening cabinet. I said, “No thanks, I’m well aware of the radiation involved. I’ll avoid your Cancer Cabinet, and under coercion will have to go for the sexual assault.” Predictably the TSA guy was confused. “What… sexual assault…?” “To make my flight I am coerced to be hand-fondled under the pretext of ‘search’ and ‘security’, right? While I do not consent to this, I am 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘥 to submit to the sexual battery, in order to make my flight.” “It’s… just a li’l pat down…” “Oh, I completely understand, but to clarify: if I 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 submit to either cancer or my fourth amendment rights being violated with my felt up via sexual battery, am I able to go to my flight gate?” “Well… no…” he said awkwardly. “There y’go.” I said. “Without my consent I am coerced into your violating my fourth amendment protected natural rights against unreasonable searches and seizures, by your committing sexual battery on me, and then afterwards we’ll go about our day.” Everything I said was very calm and straightforward: just factual and poker faced. 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 uncomfortable, the guy looked helplessly to his left at another agent who I hadn’t seen, as the screening cabinet was blocking him. “My” TSA agent said to his coworker, gesturing lamely towards me, “Do you uh… wanna…?” “No way,” the other TSA agent said. “𝘐 heard what he said…” So I stood silently as the initial agent patted me down (quite lightly and gently), and wand’ed me, and off I went, hopefully either giving him a complex, or maybe having provided him the mental seed toward his considering getting a 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 job.
@PortableProfessional: As a french guy, I confirm that CDG airport is a big mess. It is completely different in USA airports and even the train is well organised. I travel time to time to the west states included Montana, and each time we come back in France, we know we will face trouble either at the airport or at the train station and it happens each time!!! Thanks for all your tips.
Basic Rule No. 1 You use pretty much the same daily stuff at home or away. Lay it out. Put it in a couple of cheap shopping bags. Skip the expensive name brands. Leave your toys at home. Laptops? Have a notepad and pen. Demand a hand receipt for it BEFORE TSA gets it. They know you are distracted. Learn to travel light so you don’t check bags. Buy it there. Hand wash.
I fly a substantial amount the past few years. To date I have never had an issue with a TSA agent other than one or two of them being a little more ruide or harsh with people than need be. I have had several very professionally give me tips on safer travel and quicker screenings. While I travel cleared precheck, as much as I travel I do get randomized occassionally. Have always been treated with respect and in some cases the agents have even been apologetic. Treat them with respect and as a person, 9.9 times out of 10 they will treat you the same regardless of situation.
Bad advice, a bottle opener, especially one with a knife blade may be carried in check-in luggage, but definitely not in carry-on luggage. The same with scissors, sharps or items that could be used as weapons. Some countries require a passenger to have a prior approval to import a knife into a country, irrespective of whether it has a bottle opener attached or not.