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Yet, I still see tourists who virtually have "TOURIST" written in size 400 font, and neon glitter letters across their shirts, six cameras hanging from their necks, at least one see-through backpack with easy-open zippers, and a HUGE wallet with wads of currency sticking out for all the world to see. Not to mention, the majority of tourists that I have seen are tall and white, and seldom blend in easily with a more ...ethnic... population.
I would watch a video just about THIS! Reminds me how I was able to walk around 50% of the metal detectors when I was a kid in the 1980s. It all felt a bit “meh” and optional.
It's ridiculous how you get through the tightest security possible to board a plane, but your bag is just tossed into the least secure place in an airport, where anyone can just walk in and steal it.
I was in US last month for the first time and I couldn’t wrap my head around why luggage carousels are in areas where everyone can walk in? In Europe you get your luggage and only then you exit customs green or red gates to public area. Only one who can try to steal luggage is some idiot other passenger. But then you can find him cause he should be in cameras and on flight logs.
@KasparsGrigalisNot to mention if you miss a connection or are delayed on deplaning, customs etc your bag is going to be on that carousel, alone, for a long time. It's pathetic, really.
@lisalu910not really - you can’t enter that baggage claim area from street. There is at least an automatic door you can only exit from to public area. And it’s watched
I saw a guy who had a custom suitcase cover printed with his own face on it. He'd even wear the same shirt in the picture when he traveled. That's one way to make it clear the bag is yours!
I've seen this too! I was going to comment about it also hahaha. The one I saw was a middle aged woman though, so there's at least two geniuses out there.
In the UK the taxi drivers had a crew that would empty your house after dropping you at the airport. They got caught because the husband forgot his passport went home and found a removal truck outside his house. They turned round and told him the family were moving house
In a midwestern state it was an airport ride share that did this. It was kept out of the news because the yellow journalists are too busy with anti Trump BS*
@MagicalKidWhy don’t you explain exactly what Trump did that was a crime with Epstein. Then go and ask Merrick Garland why he didn’t charge Trump for those “crimes” when Biden was President
Sorry to hear that. We've used zip ties for years. Haven't had any issues. If they inspect one of our bags, they snip the tie, inspect the item, insert their "your bag was inspected card" and then zip tie it again. We always carry 20 or so in a zip baggie in my fanny pack and her purse, so they are always handy. Keep that nail clipper in that baggies as well. Been to 83 countries and territories, so familiar with traveling.
Hope this story makes you laugh.. I was travelling Southwest and agreed to be bumped to a flight that left about 40 minutes later. There was a little weather so my plane arrived about 10 minutes after my original plane. I have a distinctive orange tag on my bag and also some red paint splattered on it. It was just the carry-on type. I have to check it because I have a shoulder problem that does not allow me to lift things above my head or even above my waist. So I see this guyin a red polo shirt, grab my suitcase and instead of rolling it he’s even got it up by his chest. Now I’m in my 60s. I have gray hair but I’m pretty physically fit so I go screaming the 50 feet or so screaming thief thief, thief and tackle him. He goes down. I’m on top of him. Turns out he works for Southwest and he was picking up the bags from the first flight. They need to have signage on the back of their shirts. he was OK. I was deeply embarrassed and apologized profusely.
And then you woke up? If 2 flights land 10 minutes from one another the first flight's baggage would never be on the same belt and it would 100% still be waiting on passengers, in fact even 40 minutes later it might still be making rounds depending on how quickly it originally started as for most flights baggage isn't even loaded until 15 minutes after the plane doors opened. The airport staff does have, in virtually any airport, an obvious sign, either they are dressed like the people in the check-in (suits and all) or they have the baggage handlers reflective shirts. In general the belts even from the exact same location will only be reused after an hour at minimum, so even if everyone completely ignored the plane arrival times and for some reason used the original time - you'd still not use the same belt. If you are bumped to another flight your bags will be moved to that plane, they will not be landing with the original flight. The only thing I believe in this story is that your bag has red paint splattered on it and an orange tag. I don't even believe your age and I am actually doubting you ever flew in your life since you'd be aware of at least some of that.
True, but it also depends on what you consider valuable. If you're going for a ten-day trip, ten days worth of clothes, a pair of shoes, and maybe extra outerwear (depending on the season) are very expensive when you add them up. So for people in the paycheque to paycheque class, losing that could be quite significant.
@katherinegilks3880 I think she was referring to jewelry, cash, electronics, etc. There’s no way to eliminate clothing & necessities on a trip, so plan on replacing them if your bag is stolen. 😔
I had a big pink plastic bag that I shoved a whole bunch of jackets into going missing on me, idk if they just really liked my team's baseball jacket or someone thought it was a trash bag. (I miss that jacket, it was warm water proof and had sentimental value to me)
What worries me is the carry on stuff. To go through security you have to put everything ( all those valuables in the carry on bag and pockets, even trouser belt) into an open tray, which trundles along a moving platform often within grab reach and is then put out on the table for you ( or a thief) to collect/ pick from as they go by) I try to watch mine on its way, but that's difficult when you are going through the metal detector. Meanwhile your water bottle is regarded as a security risk and you have to empty or bin it !
@pingupenguin2474take your valuables(phone, credit cards, cash) and put them in your purse(I usually wear a belt bag style) and then I put that in my carry on tote/duffel style bag. Its harder for some to get your stuff if its inside a bag in a bag. Putting your loose valuables in the little tray is no bueno.
I'm always amazed how in USA airports the luggage comes out into a public area. Most other airports in the world the luggage comes out into a secure area (even internal flights) so the only people who can get your luggage are fellow passengers, not anyone just walking in!
This. In Europe the luggage carrousels are right in the middle of the terminal building, nowhere near the exit. Most, if not all, of the doors are one way. The person detector to open the door is only on one side.
After getting married my wife and I decided we wanted a good 35mm SLR camera with several lenses. Bought a diaper bag to put it all in along with a couple of chocolate-stained diapers that went in on top. Never had anyone even give that bag a second look.
"This person has money to travel so they probably have a house worth robbing." LOL. Travel is where all my money goes, nothing worth stealing here! Great video!
Bought my last set with security in mind! It is bright orange with 60’s style huge flowers all over it. Easy to find at pickup and anyone trying to steal it could be seen from outer space.🤣
I bought a bright yellow suitcase in the sale at Morrisons, before our trip to Greece last winter. I chose that colour because it would be easy to spot among the luggage pickup, when I went to collect it, but it seems now that I accidentally made a good choice for security as well !
I just traveled internationally twice in the last two months and was remarking how beat up my suitcase was looking and that I might purchase new nicer looking luggage. Since it’s still in fine working order, I think I’m going to continue using it. It’s pretty much the ugliest suitcase on the carousel, but thinking it might be the least desirable for thieving!
I also agree. My 14 year old black roll-aboard bag has bright white roller-skate wheels that I used to replace the wobbly originals, and obvious repairs to ripped seams using brown parachute cord hand-stitching. I also wrap carry handles with bright yellow or orange tape. This all makes my black bag easy to spot in a sea of similar black bags.
I travel about 200 days a year for work. My carry on keeps the valuables and a change of clothes while by checked bag just has clothes....with an air tracker hidden in the lining.
The last flight I took. I accidentally had an AirTag in my hold luggage. I have the AirTag on my car keys and accidentally left my keys in the bag before the flight. Out of interest I did try tracking the AirTag but the problem was there’s dead spots in both airports where the AirTag wasn’t being detected. At the departure airport. I only saw the AirTag once as it was being loaded onto the aircraft on the flightline. I don’t think I saw the AirTag at all at the arrival airport until it was on the luggage carrousel.
I've used the TSA locks just to keep the zippers from accidentally coming apart and things falling out. But the ring tie method is great. Much cheaper than replacing the locks. And never check anything that would be devastating to have lost, broken, or stolen.
I rarely lock my bags but on my last trip I used a TSA lock on the main compartment for the very reason you mention. I used mini S-shaped carabiners on the small outside pockets, though, and I think I'll just use those from now on.
I use the locks for that reason, too. I was in an airport where a girl’s suitcase zipper caught somehow coming down the baggage carousel ramp. It ended up with all of us passengers running around the baggage area picking up rolling bottles of nail polish and various other items. Ever since then I’ve just used locks to secure my suitcase zipper. Now I’m going to change to the black zip tie method instead.
I do zipties as well. If the zipper tabs are free to move even tied together, the suitcase can be open by pressing a sharp object into the zipper and then moving the tied zipper tabs to zip it back up. That can't happen if the ziptie captures both zipper tabs and the suitcase handle together.
I always secure my bags, not because of thieving but because I want to know if it has been tampered with because I certainly do not want any drugs added to it.
@reinhard8053 right. The only proper defence for proving intrusion is putting a Pelican case inside your luggage, and having serialised zip ties that can’t be copied. (This used to be something I did for work travel).
If someone really wants to steal my clothes, toothpaste, shampoo, lipstick, hairbrush and used, cheap sneakers they've got bigger problems than I do. I don't carry my valuables in my suitcase. 😉
Same! However, the problem comes when you go back home after buying tons of stuff that you can only put in your checked luggage (think liquids over 100 ml; e.g., drinks, skincare) like my shopping spree at Olive Young on my last trip to South Korea and at Don Quixote in Japan! 😂 lol Of course, other than that, I never put valuables in my checked luggage either, or even my carry-on luggage. I keep them on myself or in the bag I put under the front seat on the plane (which I can easily have an eye on, access, and take with me when I have to go to the bathroom).
@Marie-MichelleFortier Sweetie, I'm not of the jet set class that has the money, the desire or the need for such stuff. I can travel without such worries.
@Xianne027I'm not either! But since I barely buy anything for myself yearly, so I decided to buy ~CA$300 worth in skin care and hair products there (and part of that total was actually gifts for my family members, not even for myself). I don't even buy CA$100 worth of clothes per year (I still own and wear clothes that I bought back in 2008-2011 as they still fit me and are still holding somehow 😆 lol). I don't even eat out that much per year, like less than 10 times per year in total including fast-food restaurants! 😅 Even for my weekly groceries, I try to stay around CA$50-75 week max.!
@Xianne027 Also, since I'm from Eastern Canada and have barely any money, I almost never travel outside of my province/country. The only reasons I traveled outside of my country was because of school or work, except once many years ago (it was still in an academic context though) and this year. I mainly went to Japan to see my partner after 2 years of long-distance (7th year anniversary this year in fall).
I live in Hawaii. I purchased a garishly colored Hawaiian print hardcase luggage set. On my first trip with it, my friend gasped, "That's uhhhh....different!" I explained that in a sea of black and navy bags, mine will instantly stand out! Since then, I have also added colorful stickers from each place I travel. In China, after I got my boarding pass, a Chinese guard asked me to come to the baggage check area because they need to open my luggage. When I went inside, there were three large black bags. He asked which was mine. I said NONE of them. He said to double check and make sure. LOL! He did seem to want to question me though. Next time, I will take a picture of my luggage beforehand.
I always wanted a Disney princess carry-on being bright pink. A crook is not going to want to walk through the airport with that. And you won't pull it off the rack because it screams kid. 😅 I have seen people try to take luggage out of the overhead bin and I screamed out to him and said sir that's not your luggage because I helped the elderly woman put it up there. My pilot friend leaving first class forgot one of his carry-ons with all his electronics. He was only 50 ft from the door and went back and that carry on was gone. So I never leave anything in the overhead bin that I cannot see from my seat. You know how people will get on late those store their luggage way in the back of the plane and they may be in the front. That is bad news. I also now have a jacket called the Scotty vest and I store all my key possessions in my jacket: my wallet, keys, medications, phone, backup battery charger and tablet. If they take my bag they're just getting clothes and in an emergency I just walk off the plane with my jacket full of my most important items. So sad that you have to protect yourself that much😢 Safe travels.
@janecooney8641I'm starting to consider wearing the SV (wind breaker) all the time I go out. I purchased a cheap vest off Amazon to go out on walks. If somebody wants my purse, they can have it😊 crazy world 🌎.
During my recent trip in the Philippines, my filipino friends introduced me to a unique luggage bag available on their online shop “Shopee” a bag with your personalize design it can be a text, an art, photo, etc, so I decided to costumize mine with my photo with the big written phrase “(my name)’s luggage” beyond it distinctive appearance, the clothes I bring has a DIY printed full name of me artistically. Other than that, I ensured that the contents of my bag would not attract thieves as it holds my personalize designed clothings, plain slippers, a small cheap and common deodorant, small cheap and common soap, small cheap and common lotion, small cheap and common shampoo, small cheap and common toothpaste and toothbrush, a cheap looking journal and a common pen that are easily accessible to anyone. Unless someone is truly desperate, there’s little incentive for theft, as my belongings are nothing more than everyday essentials. My credit card and tickets is usuall “inside” my brassiere’s diy pocket and cash is “inside” of my every clothing’s diy hidden pockets (intentionally positioned under my breast as I wear it)
When I travelled regularly for work, my luggage was completely understated although rather obnoxious. It had jingle bells glued inside the wheel housings & sleigh bells glued into the “secret” bottom compartment. A little creative handcrafting on a dull afternoon. The handle was wrapped in a bright yellow fuzzy fabric with squeakie toy squeakers inside. Only ever used zip ties pre-TSA; figured it wasn’t worth it to change. The folks at DCA always got a smile & chuckle when I showed up. Mission accomplished!
My luggage tag has my PO Box. My suitcase is covered in stickers. Including a big ole razorback hog. (Whooo Pig, Sooie). I use a hardcase with TSA clasps. I put duct tape over the clasps just to see if they get tampered with. Yup, sometimes they do. Even in hotel rooms.
I use a luggage tag on my outgoing trip that has my destination on it. Then I flip it over on my outbound leg that has my housebound best friend's address on it.
Same here, but some airlines, at least in Europe and South America try to force you to check in your hand luggage when the flight is fully booked. They " voluntell" you to do it. It pisses me off!
Some time ago I found out that my luggage is never heavier than 12 kg. So, I bought me a... 5 kg heavy Nanuk case, and 'm still within weight limits. I don't use padlocks (if TSA needs, they'd cut them off), so instead I use thin paracord to tie the lock holes. TSA can afford some time to cut these off if they need to check my luggage, and when they open it they'd find a few zip-ties with a polite instruction to reseal the case. Common suitcases are flimsy, you can break their wheels, puncture them through, but this coffin is so durable it would survive a plane crash (and still have working wheels). And also you can sit on it!
I always put a couple pieces of duct tape on my suitcase that are visible from every side. This makes your bag look older, you can use the tape in case you have damage while you are traveling, and it makes it visible from a distance in case someone grabs it. I also put an airtag inside the liner so I can monitor if my bag starts to leave the baggage area before I do.
I have a couple of beat-up suitcases that I use that are literally over 70 years old, and they look it. The latches don't work & I use an old belt to hold them closed. One has a wood frame with a ripped up naugahyde finish and the other is made of fake leather. Anyone that steals them will get nothing of value except for my own memories. 😀
That’s why people always rush off the plane to get their luggage, cause literally anyone can steal it. In Japan once you get your luggage you have to fill out a declaration form before you’re allowed into the public area of the airport. Though it doesn’t stop another person from stealing your luggage at least they can track down those who were on your flight
My husband is a retired pilot of a major airline. Luggage tags. First off, they're at risk of being ripped off by baggage handlers or machinery accidentally. Second, nobody should be looking at it aside from lost luggage agents. The tags can be your last chance at retrieving lost luggage. Attach them to your zipper pull and when you close your bag, tuck the tag INSIDE your bag so it won't get caught on something AND your info won't be visible. But we're a quarter of the way through the 21st century. Use airtags.
When I used to fly a lot, there were many times when by the time I'd get down to the luggage area, like stopping to use the bathroom or get a soda, which only took a minute or two, they were done and had put away what was left into the office. Most of those times, especially when it was late at night, it took a ling time to get my luggage, and a couple of times I had to drive back to the airport the next day, that's ridiculous. Some of those times I did not stop to use the bathroom on the way, and I was shocked at how quickly they were done with the luggage in the conveyer belt - it happened to others on my flight too, and we all walked quickly to get to the luggage area, it's not like people hang around, they want to get out and go, but fast wasn't fast enough. When they lock it in the office, it causes more of a chance of getting lost/ misplaced/ stolen, as it's moved around by more people. A couple of times they gave us the wrong area to go to, and when we all got to the right place, no one was there, no luggage on the belt. This makes you winder if it was lost, stolen, or put aside by the staff, but no one was there to tell us. This happened at Tampa (TPA) and also at St Pete (PIE). I mail my stuff now, and carry on everything else.
The black luggage omg yes! The one and only time I had a black one, I literally watched someone grab my bag and try to walk out with it. I thankfully ran fast and chased him down and got it back because I did have a specific keychain on it. Never used a black bag again, I use it purely for storage.
I don't lock mine, why bother if a thief can steal the whole thing? a thief would not open your suitcase in the collection area and take something from it, a thief wil take the whole darn thing to a quiet area open it there an dump what he doesn't want
Don’t even put your address on your luggage tag. There’s no point, airlines will never send your lost luggage without contacting you first!! Just leave your name a phone #
I just use my husband’s cellphone number and have him call the creep and block the number. Definitely don’t provide an address and just provide a last name for identification.Good to take a picture of your luggage before your flight and if possible your airline tix to prove ownership.
My tag has my first name and last initial, and a QR code that gives a throwaway email address to contact me if it is lost and found. Beyond that I try to keep any actual valuables with me on my carry-on.
This happened to me right before the pandemic! At Philly international airport the baggage claim was very crowded around the carousel. My dark gray bag had three different colored tags on it and when I saw it appear, I was halfway around the carousel. A young woman picked it up, put it on the ground, raised the handle and started walking away with it. I was stunned that she didn't even check the tag. I quickly ran up and stopped right in front of her and said to her I think that's my bag while reaching for the tag......yes it was mine! All she said was "Ohhh", turned and walked back to the carousel. I turned and walked out to my waiting ride and realized then that she was probably stealing bags!
I always lock my bags because when the airline personnel are tossing my luggage around, it won’t come flying open, spilling out all of my items. I do use a luggage tag that has a flap covering my personal details. But, from now on, I will turn the information side of the tag’s card, over. I have a black bag, so do use brightly coloured and strong Christmas gift ribbon to make the luggage stand out. As I cannot just buy new luggage, minus zippers, I may invest in an attractive luggage cover. You included many great tips, and thank you for that. 😊
The moral of this story is "don't take anything when you travel". When you get where you're going, just go to Walmart and buy a week's worth of clothes. It'll cost you less than a suitcase. 🤣
Yes the cost of checked luggage is now exorbitant (Jet2 want £40 each way for a case) Given that you can carry on board a 10kg cabin bag plus personal item I don’t see the need for a suitcase particularly if you’re going to a hot weather destination and only need shorts and tee shirts (more problematic on a skiing holiday).
on my last international trip, I did see an identical piece of luggage to mine on the carousel; same make, same color (black). but fortunately I had made my bag stand out with stripes of yellow duct tape, and a bright green strap, along with an orange ID tag (w cover) like you showed in the video. if it had not been for these additions, we could’ve easily mistaken one bag for the other or a thief could’ve easily runoff with it being generic black with no unusual markings. i’m surprised the other bag owner did not make his luggage distinct in anyway since it was a popular hard shell make and common black model. thanks for the tips.
There was a guy at Bangkok taking suitcases of the arrivals carousel for over 10 years. I have said for years all the security it takes to put a case on a plane when you arrive any one can take it and walk out. I think all bags should be checked that the right person is taking them mine got taken in Turkey never seen it again.
5:54 late to this but travel quite a bit and just want to add that I only put my cell, email and just the first initial of my name so no one knows my gender. email also doesn't give it away either. my luggage is also unique but gender neutral. Just an idea for any other ladies out there.
A few years ago, I band I knew were on tour and flew with Qantas. One of the band members was sitting at a window seat, and saw the baggage crew throwing their instruments around. The guy filmed it and the baggage crew got into trouble
I gave a friend a suitcase as a present. An old, beaten-up one. This mindful gift was very well appreciated. After additional "beautification" with ugly stickers it was practically safe from theft.
My mum made a last minute decision to put her jewellery into her small suitcase just before going through the security check so her suitcase, handbag etc was scanned. She usually keeps all her jewellery in her handbag, so in her possession at all times. As she was flying local and the airline allowed small suitcases on board (Ryanair) she didn't think anything of it. As she had passed through all the checkpoints and was waiting at the gate to board a female member of staff passed through the boarding area asking people if they would like to 'check your bag into the hold for free'. She agreed, forgetting that she had put her jewellery in the suitcase. On arrival the suitcase was 'lost'. How? How did they loose her suitcase between the departure gate and the hold? The plane was parked and in full view of the waiting passengers. This was obviously a scam being run by airport staff. Once the jewellery was recognised during the x-ray she was a target. I absolutely despise these scumbags who prey on the elderly.
Ryanair's chief executive Michael O'Leary said the bereaved are our best customers. They have to fly last minute when prices are highest. That will tell you everything about him and his disgusting airline.
@pastamakesyourunfaster Norwegian also - not real airline employees. Of course those at TSA (or equivalent) are TSA. Unlike elsewhere though, TSA employees are often low class and some enjoy victimizing the public for any perceived slight or anything else if they can. Yes, I have personal stories.
I don't understand why luggage corrals are outside of the secured parts of airports that are only for people with plane tickets and staff. One has to go through scanning, screanings, pat downs, and metal detectors to get into an airport, but the airport just tosses your bags on an open carousel right next to the doors and never have any security nearby.
Everything I do. I usually carry on, but i keep zip ties in my suitcase incase I have to check it. I have covered tags, air tags, and an off color suitcase. I also never put anything valuable in my checked bag.
The best possible way to keep your baggage safe. Buy used baggage and make it look ghetto. Old duct tape. Scratched up and worn looking. The solution is simple. Don’t put high values in check in . iPhone AirTags secretly planted in case
When I left the airports involved in my last trip, there was someone asking for ID for every piece carried out. This was in Boston, NYC and several airports in Texas and California, also Phoenix. When you check a bag, they give you paperwork which has to be shown to that checker at the door.
When I was travelling for work, I thought a bright red suitcase (off brand, not fancy or expensive) would be unique enough, until I saw several on every flight. Then I found some large, white luggage tags (the kind you have to unhook and open to see the name and address/phone inside) and I covered them with some fruit and flower stickers. Not many business men are travelling with daisies and strawberries on their luggage tags. Add some pink and lime green pompoms and you're set. I also scattered some business cards inside the luggage in case the bags got lost. Work address and work phone only. Inside the case I also used 1 gallon ziplock bags for dirty underwear or socks. No point in putting TSA agents through rifling through my stinky crew socks.
Another thing is to wrap your luggage in a towel inside the suitcase which keeps it all together but also makes it too hard for any thief to grab anything even if they do open your bag with a pen.
@comtnhigh why? It's if thieves open your suitcase then they can't just slip their hands in and pull something out cos the towel has wrapped the stuff. So they then have to open the suitcase completly and have to unravel the towel to get at stuff and quite frankly it will take too long and they will abandon the idea. Also if you put a towel along your clothes you keep everything nice in your suitcase and not moving about. You put the suitcase straps over the towel.
Luggage tags get ripped off by the conveyers all the time. Completely pointless and a waste of money. Put a contact number in a hidden spot INSIDE the luggage in the event your luggage goes on a detour. Spray paint your plain black bag with an initial.
I do both. A bright luggage tag (which didn't get lost, yet), which helps in identifying it (one suitcase is plain black), and a sheet with my name and picture and a telephone number inside.
In such case , never leave your luggage unattended. Unattended luggage with a tag , at least the staff can contact you ( put your dad or uncle number in there ) But one should no leave the tag sticking out. Taping it on or tucking it in is the best. Some parts around the handle used to have hard plastic , just put a sticker on and cover with transport tape
Most quality luggage these days have a permanently mounted outside pocket for a business card sized ID tag. If yours does not, a brightly colored ID tag pocket sewn or glued to the bag will set your bag apart from others.
I wrap a big, brightly patterned sock around the handle of the suitcase. Even though it is clean the psychological effect of handling someone else's sock is surprisingly effective.
I never thought that the info on your luggage tags could be used to burgle your home. Luckily I only put my post code/zip code and mobile number on mine. People should also NOT use posh designer suitcases. Acquaintance of mine did this some years back. It attracted the attention of someone who worked in baggage handling and her designer dresses inside her designer suitcase went missing. Thousands of £ of clothes just gone! Never dress to impress at an airport or you might be targeted by thieves. Brilliant info about the discrete locks too. Thanks
There was a time when people actually DRESSED UP for Air Travel. It was a higher class luxury and you didn't see undergarments or cleavage (top or bottom) hanging out. Of course, that was when they still allowed smoking on planes and seats were cloth and retained all sorts of odors and muck. Then came the irony of a Non-Smoking Section in an enclosed capsule. Now you aren't even allowed to use chewing tobacco on flights. Maybe it wasted too many of the barf bags?
@emjayay At airports, it's best to mingle in and not stand out. Don't wear posh clothes, don't use designer baggage, watch your belongings like a hawk and make sure you watch your hand-carried bags when going thru security
Zip ties, twist ties, a simple key ring, or a paper clip will also do the job and TSA won't have to break your lock. If it's the lock on the luggage not the zippers it's ruined then.
The baggage guys stole my Xmas presents going home last year. Got home and aftershave and new clothes for family that was in plastic wrap was taken, Old stuff remained. So a lock would have helped in this situation 🙈
I have bought a suitcase that - sadly - is quite common with business travellers. There can be 3 of it on the conveyor. Some colorful zipties around the handles later, no more mix ups.
Locking your bag isn’t only to keep things in but also to keep things out. Leaving your bags unlocked makes you an easy target for smugglers who can get you into serious trouble.
I have some old 1970's aluminium hard shell luggage. It doesn't carry very much, but has meshing solid aluminium closures, not zippers. Think I'll be using that for my checked luggage.
Great tips! My wife and I are avid travelers, having been to more than 83 countries and territories. We’ve learned and applied most of what you mentioned, but always eager to learn a few more tips. The tip from this one was turning your address labels over in the luggage tag. I went to check mine and sure enough, on one tag, the address was exposed. Simply turned it over and voila, a bit more secure. The other was in a covered sleeve, and it needed to be “refreshed”. So got that done too. We do use zip ties (and fingernail clippers), have “unique” suitcases and colorful identifiers (ribbons, tags), and my wife gets out to the luggage carousel pretty quickly. Since we usually sit near the front of the aircraft, we tend to get off sooner as well. Thanks again for a great video.
My flowered suitcase was ruined by the airline. My replacement is a bright yellow with a vividly colored cover! Easy on, easy off and quite affordable.
Well, if they’ve already stolen your bag, they can just cut it open with a box cutter. There needs to be security around the carousels and there needs to be a check of baggage serial numbers with their corresponding tags with the passenger.
While I agree with you, there should be agents at the exits here’s a quick look at it from the airline’s view. There are going to be lost/stolen baggage with or without security so they need to deal with it. Airlines are legally required to comp for lost luggage. Placing a guard at each and every exit after baggage will require an ARMY of agents plus their management, training, uniforms, background checks, insurance, etc. For a big metropolitan airport that would be maybe 4 people per exit per 24 hours. Add 50% to cover weekends, holidays, sick days, vacations - 6 people per day per exit. Compensation for a few lost bags is cheaper. I don’t know what the legal comp rate is, maybe $250?? (it used to be $ per pound) Less than the cost of guarding your bag. Not saying it’s right, just that it is.
I used to use the TSA lock on my luggage and would constantly get notes from TSA saying my luggage was randomly selected for a check. Nothing was taken though because I don’t put nice stuff in my checked bag. The moment I stopped locking my luggage is the moment I stopped getting randomly selected.
When I was traveling constantly, mostly international, for work I used a silver Zero Halliburton suitcase. Yes, it was heavy but I wasn't paying for any possible overweight, and it seldom was. I never used a luggage tag. I had my name and phone numbers printed on white card stock and then laminated them to the sides of the bag. Finally, I bought duct tape and reflective tape in many colors and made patterns on the side of my bag. I could spot my bag on a luggage carousel from 50 yards away. An added benefit of the Halliburton was that it sealed with an O-ring so if the bag got wet the contents stayed dry. Finally, I installed stainless steel hasps, one on the top and one on the side, and used actual small padlocks. In all the years I was traveling on six continents I never had a bag lost or stolen, but had to replace the first one. A UA baggage crew drove a fork lift blade completely through a baggage bin and through the side of my bag.
Gee thanks so much for helping thieves get into luggage. The airlines need to be held responsible and make certain they have the proper level of security.
Good logic, clear messages, bravo. As a frequent non-business traveller, I pack the same for two days as for two weeks+. Also two rules I swear by: 1. I never check luggage. Two carry-ons are plenty for me. 2. I don't pack anything I cannot afford to lose in a checked bag. cheers.
I have always attached a unique item (usually a crocheted flower) to the handle of my luggage for my own ease of identification. It astonishes me that more people don't do this -- a bandana, keychain plushie, something at least.
I have never locked my suitcase. I put my partial address in the lining. That's my initials and post code. I have always viewed travel like a festival - don't take anything you aren't prepared to lose. The valuable items are always on my person. If you want to put contraband into my case - well that's just hilarious. The real cartel/professional criminals aren't making money that way. 😂
I have a luggage cover thats super annoying to get on and off in a timely manner with no real way to conveniently pick up and carry my bag while the cover is on. its unwieldy and slow, which is the point. Also, it keeps my bag clean and free of scuffs on the conveyor belts
Just put your email address (the one you keep for "public" purposes rather than your private one) and anyone who wants to reach you can do it that way.
From a reasonable standpoint that should be the norm. They do everything(?) to ensure your luggage gets safe around the world and then they put it just somewhere where everybody just can take it without any control.
Glad you mentioned suitcase covers, I bought a couple of Amazon so I could easily see my bag, they are hard to get on and off but so worth it, my kids thought they were silly but I’ll show them this video
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Yet, I still see tourists who virtually have "TOURIST" written in size 400 font, and neon glitter letters across their shirts, six cameras hanging from their necks, at least one see-through backpack with easy-open zippers, and a HUGE wallet with wads of currency sticking out for all the world to see. Not to mention, the majority of tourists that I have seen are tall and white, and seldom blend in easily with a more ...ethnic... population.
@TDSHarperwhere is this?! This sounds like a movie!
@laylasimic4709 I've seen it done lots of places: pretty much anywhere tourists travel.
Forgot got to mention dont fly to cities dont prosecut
No ones watching people grabbing bags lol
There was a time when they checked your baggage tag receipts before allowing you to leave the baggage claim area.
I would watch a video just about THIS!
Reminds me how I was able to walk around 50% of the metal detectors when I was a kid in the 1980s. It all felt a bit “meh” and optional.
Completely forgot about that!!
No doubt some people complained it was “racist” somehow so airports stopped doing it.
Yeah, it's crazy to me how you can just walk up and take any piece of luggage you want.
Thank goodness it's no longer the case
It's ridiculous how you get through the tightest security possible to board a plane, but your bag is just tossed into the least secure place in an airport, where anyone can just walk in and steal it.
I was in US last month for the first time and I couldn’t wrap my head around why luggage carousels are in areas where everyone can walk in? In Europe you get your luggage and only then you exit customs green or red gates to public area. Only one who can try to steal luggage is some idiot other passenger. But then you can find him cause he should be in cameras and on flight logs.
@KasparsGrigalisNot to mention if you miss a connection or are delayed on deplaning, customs etc your bag is going to be on that carousel, alone, for a long time. It's pathetic, really.
@lisalu910not really - you can’t enter that baggage claim area from street. There is at least an automatic door you can only exit from to public area. And it’s watched
@KasparsGrigalis That is simply not true of every airport in Europe.
@lisalu910 which European airport allows free entry to the baggage claim area from the street?
I saw a guy who had a custom suitcase cover printed with his own face on it. He'd even wear the same shirt in the picture when he traveled. That's one way to make it clear the bag is yours!
Hahaha I love that!
The question there is, are the contents of your bag really worth more than your dignity?😆
I've seen this too! I was going to comment about it also hahaha. The one I saw was a middle aged woman though, so there's at least two geniuses out there.
😂😂😂😂
@Nabend1402Yes. I couldn’t care less what a random person I’ve never met before (and most likely will never interact with) thinks of me.
In the UK the taxi drivers had a crew that would empty your house after dropping you at the airport. They got caught because the husband forgot his passport went home and found a removal truck outside his house.
They turned round and told him the family were moving house
Oh my goodness!! That's mental
In a midwestern state it was an airport ride share that did this. It was kept out of the news because the yellow journalists are too busy with anti Trump BS*
My father told me this in the 70’s. When he organised a taxi my parents would walk to the next street. R.I.P. mum & dad
@DilawonDandekLol you're saying a shitty local crime is more important than what the president of US has done?
@MagicalKidWhy don’t you explain exactly what Trump did that was a crime with Epstein. Then go and ask Merrick Garland why he didn’t charge Trump for those “crimes” when Biden was President
I stopped using TSA locks after the TSA decided to break my suitcase lock instead of using their key.
I knew this when I was 3
Well, good for you my friend 🙏
Sorry to hear that. We've used zip ties for years. Haven't had any issues. If they inspect one of our bags, they snip the tie, inspect the item, insert their "your bag was inspected card" and then zip tie it again. We always carry 20 or so in a zip baggie in my fanny pack and her purse, so they are always handy. Keep that nail clipper in that baggies as well. Been to 83 countries and territories, so familiar with traveling.
@sharperminds8509 wow that is a lot
@ryuso3406 you're not even 2 yet stop lying
Hope this story makes you laugh.. I was travelling Southwest and agreed to be bumped to a flight that left about 40 minutes later. There was a little weather so my plane arrived about 10 minutes after my original plane. I have a distinctive orange tag on my bag and also some red paint splattered on it. It was just the carry-on type. I have to check it because I have a shoulder problem that does not allow me to lift things above my head or even above my waist. So I see this guyin a red polo shirt, grab my suitcase and instead of rolling it he’s even got it up by his chest. Now I’m in my 60s. I have gray hair but I’m pretty physically fit so I go screaming the 50 feet or so screaming thief thief, thief and tackle him. He goes down. I’m on top of him. Turns out he works for Southwest and he was picking up the bags from the first flight. They need to have signage on the back of their shirts. he was OK. I was deeply embarrassed and apologized profusely.
Yep! Your story made me laugh. Thank-you!!
Oh man I feel this. Nice story.
yup, need identifying uniforms! But awesome for you with the distinctive markings; you knew it was yours!
You apologized. Many wouldn't.
And then you woke up?
If 2 flights land 10 minutes from one another the first flight's baggage would never be on the same belt and it would 100% still be waiting on passengers, in fact even 40 minutes later it might still be making rounds depending on how quickly it originally started as for most flights baggage isn't even loaded until 15 minutes after the plane doors opened.
The airport staff does have, in virtually any airport, an obvious sign, either they are dressed like the people in the check-in (suits and all) or they have the baggage handlers reflective shirts.
In general the belts even from the exact same location will only be reused after an hour at minimum, so even if everyone completely ignored the plane arrival times and for some reason used the original time - you'd still not use the same belt.
If you are bumped to another flight your bags will be moved to that plane, they will not be landing with the original flight.
The only thing I believe in this story is that your bag has red paint splattered on it and an orange tag.
I don't even believe your age and I am actually doubting you ever flew in your life since you'd be aware of at least some of that.
The easiest tip is " dont leave valuable stuff on the checked luggage" Bring them with you on your hand luggage.
True, but it also depends on what you consider valuable. If you're going for a ten-day trip, ten days worth of clothes, a pair of shoes, and maybe extra outerwear (depending on the season) are very expensive when you add them up. So for people in the paycheque to paycheque class, losing that could be quite significant.
@katherinegilks3880 I think she was referring to jewelry, cash, electronics, etc. There’s no way to eliminate clothing & necessities on a trip, so plan on replacing them if your bag is stolen. 😔
I had a big pink plastic bag that I shoved a whole bunch of jackets into going missing on me, idk if they just really liked my team's baseball jacket or someone thought it was a trash bag. (I miss that jacket, it was warm water proof and had sentimental value to me)
What worries me is the carry on stuff. To go through security you have to put everything ( all those valuables in the carry on bag and pockets, even trouser belt) into an open tray, which trundles along a moving platform often within grab reach and is then put out on the table for you ( or a thief) to collect/ pick from as they go by)
I try to watch mine on its way, but that's difficult when you are going through the metal detector.
Meanwhile your water bottle is regarded as a security risk and you have to empty or bin it !
@pingupenguin2474take your valuables(phone, credit cards, cash) and put them in your purse(I usually wear a belt bag style) and then I put that in my carry on tote/duffel style bag. Its harder for some to get your stuff if its inside a bag in a bag. Putting your loose valuables in the little tray is no bueno.
I'm always amazed how in USA airports the luggage comes out into a public area. Most other airports in the world the luggage comes out into a secure area (even internal flights) so the only people who can get your luggage are fellow passengers, not anyone just walking in!
This. In Europe the luggage carrousels are right in the middle of the terminal building, nowhere near the exit.
Most, if not all, of the doors are one way. The person detector to open the door is only on one side.
Sorry. No. Many parts of the world have internal flights come out in a public area.
its mind boggling
@andyrob3259 I think the key words in your statement is “internal flight”. In Europe internal flights are uncommon.
@notmenotme614 What? Are you seriously saying no one flies from e.g. London to Edinburgh or from Madrid to Barcelona?
After getting married my wife and I decided we wanted a good 35mm SLR camera with several lenses. Bought a diaper bag to put it all in along with a couple of chocolate-stained diapers that went in on top. Never had anyone even give that bag a second look.
It would show up on the scanner and they would take it out to inspect. I only know that because it happened to me
Now that’s smart
love this..
No creo que funcione mucho, porque ellos pasan por los rayos X
Great idea!!
Airports needs to secure the baggage area, like it was before.
They do everywhere except USA it seems....
"This person has money to travel so they probably have a house worth robbing." LOL. Travel is where all my money goes, nothing worth stealing here! Great video!
Hahaha that's what I like to hear!
You have it figured out! 👊🏼🥂
Bought my last set with security in mind! It is bright orange with 60’s style huge flowers all over it. Easy to find at pickup and anyone trying to steal it could be seen from outer space.🤣
Smart! Folks buy multi coloured luggage please! No more black and grey !
I bought a bright yellow suitcase in the sale at Morrisons, before our trip to Greece last winter. I chose that colour because it would be easy to spot among the luggage pickup, when I went to collect it, but it seems now that I accidentally made a good choice for security as well !
Till most folk have colours, then black stands out !¡!
Everyone is going to buy brightly colored luggage and say goodbye to it
Mine has an animal print
I just traveled internationally twice in the last two months and was remarking how beat up my suitcase was looking and that I might purchase new nicer looking luggage. Since it’s still in fine working order, I think I’m going to continue using it. It’s pretty much the ugliest suitcase on the carousel, but thinking it might be the least desirable for thieving!
Yes, 😊agree !! Do NOT look like a fancy $$$ target !! 🎉 no designer items, fancy jewelry.🧑🦳travel alone alot ,,never bothered !!
I also agree. My 14 year old black roll-aboard bag has bright white roller-skate wheels that I used to replace the wobbly originals, and obvious repairs to ripped seams using brown parachute cord hand-stitching. I also wrap carry handles with bright yellow or orange tape. This all makes my black bag easy to spot in a sea of similar black bags.
I travel about 200 days a year for work. My carry on keeps the valuables and a change of clothes while by checked bag just has clothes....with an air tracker hidden in the lining.
The last flight I took. I accidentally had an AirTag in my hold luggage. I have the AirTag on my car keys and accidentally left my keys in the bag before the flight.
Out of interest I did try tracking the AirTag but the problem was there’s dead spots in both airports where the AirTag wasn’t being detected. At the departure airport. I only saw the AirTag once as it was being loaded onto the aircraft on the flightline. I don’t think I saw the AirTag at all at the arrival airport until it was on the luggage carrousel.
Wow you must be an expert at travelling by now!
@victoriaalicewestwood3558 Commercial pilot for 29 years and counting.
@victoriaalicewestwood3558settle down Sargent Sarcasm
Same!
I've used the TSA locks just to keep the zippers from accidentally coming apart and things falling out. But the ring tie method is great. Much cheaper than replacing the locks. And never check anything that would be devastating to have lost, broken, or stolen.
I rarely lock my bags but on my last trip I used a TSA lock on the main compartment for the very reason you mention. I used mini S-shaped carabiners on the small outside pockets, though, and I think I'll just use those from now on.
This is why I lock my bags too and they have integrated combination TSA locks.
I use the locks for that reason, too. I was in an airport where a girl’s suitcase zipper caught somehow coming down the baggage carousel ramp. It ended up with all of us passengers running around the baggage area picking up rolling bottles of nail polish and various other items. Ever since then I’ve just used locks to secure my suitcase zipper. Now I’m going to change to the black zip tie method instead.
I do zipties as well. If the zipper tabs are free to move even tied together, the suitcase can be open by pressing a sharp object into the zipper and then moving the tied zipper tabs to zip it back up. That can't happen if the ziptie captures both zipper tabs and the suitcase handle together.
I always secure my bags, not because of thieving but because I want to know if it has been tampered with because I certainly do not want any drugs added to it.
But with what is shown in the video would you really know it ?
@reinhard8053 right. The only proper defence for proving intrusion is putting a Pelican case inside your luggage, and having serialised zip ties that can’t be copied. (This used to be something I did for work travel).
Turning down free drugs? In this economy?! 😂
@its_cleanyour joke is much better than mine
This is my concern too. This can put you in a lot of problems.
If someone really wants to steal my clothes, toothpaste, shampoo, lipstick, hairbrush and used, cheap sneakers they've got bigger problems than I do. I don't carry my valuables in my suitcase. 😉
Same!
However, the problem comes when you go back home after buying tons of stuff that you can only put in your checked luggage (think liquids over 100 ml; e.g., drinks, skincare) like my shopping spree at Olive Young on my last trip to South Korea and at Don Quixote in Japan! 😂 lol
Of course, other than that, I never put valuables in my checked luggage either, or even my carry-on luggage. I keep them on myself or in the bag I put under the front seat on the plane (which I can easily have an eye on, access, and take with me when I have to go to the bathroom).
@Marie-MichelleFortier Sweetie, I'm not of the jet set class that has the money, the desire or the need for such stuff. I can travel without such worries.
@Xianne027I'm not either! But since I barely buy anything for myself yearly, so I decided to buy ~CA$300 worth in skin care and hair products there (and part of that total was actually gifts for my family members, not even for myself). I don't even buy CA$100 worth of clothes per year (I still own and wear clothes that I bought back in 2008-2011 as they still fit me and are still holding somehow 😆 lol). I don't even eat out that much per year, like less than 10 times per year in total including fast-food restaurants! 😅 Even for my weekly groceries, I try to stay around CA$50-75 week max.!
@Xianne027 Also, since I'm from Eastern Canada and have barely any money, I almost never travel outside of my province/country. The only reasons I traveled outside of my country was because of school or work, except once many years ago (it was still in an academic context though) and this year. I mainly went to Japan to see my partner after 2 years of long-distance (7th year anniversary this year in fall).
I don’t bring valuables on vacation
I live in Hawaii. I purchased a garishly colored Hawaiian print hardcase luggage set. On my first trip with it, my friend gasped, "That's uhhhh....different!" I explained that in a sea of black and navy bags, mine will instantly stand out! Since then, I have also added colorful stickers from each place I travel. In China, after I got my boarding pass, a Chinese guard asked me to come to the baggage check area because they need to open my luggage. When I went inside, there were three large black bags. He asked which was mine. I said NONE of them. He said to double check and make sure. LOL! He did seem to want to question me though. Next time, I will take a picture of my luggage beforehand.
A most excellent idea!! Especially if your luggage is ever "misplaced" you can prove they are your items.
In the 70’s you could not walk out of the airport with your bag unless you had the matching ticket.
They need to bring this back
There were also less people flying in the 70s, so it was easier to do this
We don’t lock in air travel because we know they demand it open or will force it open if security wants to check something
We use paperclips to tie together the zippers, to keep them from coming open.
I always wanted a Disney princess carry-on being bright pink. A crook is not going to want to walk through the airport with that. And you won't pull it off the rack because it screams kid. 😅 I have seen people try to take luggage out of the overhead bin and I screamed out to him and said sir that's not your luggage because I helped the elderly woman put it up there. My pilot friend leaving first class forgot one of his carry-ons with all his electronics. He was only 50 ft from the door and went back and that carry on was gone. So I never leave anything in the overhead bin that I cannot see from my seat. You know how people will get on late those store their luggage way in the back of the plane and they may be in the front. That is bad news. I also now have a jacket called the Scotty vest and I store all my key possessions in my jacket: my wallet, keys, medications, phone, backup battery charger and tablet. If they take my bag they're just getting clothes and in an emergency I just walk off the plane with my jacket full of my most important items. So sad that you have to protect yourself that much😢 Safe travels.
I have a Scottie vest also .. best purchase ever
@janecooney8641I'm starting to consider wearing the SV (wind breaker) all the time I go out. I purchased a cheap vest off Amazon to go out on walks. If somebody wants my purse, they can have it😊 crazy world 🌎.
During my recent trip in the Philippines, my filipino friends introduced me to a unique luggage bag available on their online shop “Shopee” a bag with your personalize design it can be a text, an art, photo, etc, so I decided to costumize mine with my photo with the big written phrase “(my name)’s luggage” beyond it distinctive appearance, the clothes I bring has a DIY printed full name of me artistically. Other than that, I ensured that the contents of my bag would not attract thieves as it holds my personalize designed clothings, plain slippers, a small cheap and common deodorant, small cheap and common soap, small cheap and common lotion, small cheap and common shampoo, small cheap and common toothpaste and toothbrush, a cheap looking journal and a common pen that are easily accessible to anyone. Unless someone is truly desperate, there’s little incentive for theft, as my belongings are nothing more than everyday essentials. My credit card and tickets is usuall “inside” my brassiere’s diy pocket and cash is “inside” of my every clothing’s diy hidden pockets (intentionally positioned under my breast as I wear it)
yep! wallet on my person except for securtity, full stop.
Great tip, I’ll be getting a Scotty vest for myself 🙏🏽
1:15 I do lock up garbage, even at the gym I lock up my empty bag that I just use to carry my water bottle and towel, bag itself is a cheap one.
When I travelled regularly for work, my luggage was completely understated although rather obnoxious. It had jingle bells glued inside the wheel housings & sleigh bells glued into the “secret” bottom compartment. A little creative handcrafting on a dull afternoon. The handle was wrapped in a bright yellow fuzzy fabric with squeakie toy squeakers inside. Only ever used zip ties pre-TSA; figured it wasn’t worth it to change. The folks at DCA always got a smile & chuckle when I showed up. Mission accomplished!
"Traveling thieves" is a great band name
Locks only keep out honest people....😂 💙
Great advice btw
The number of weirdos that 'fly the friendly skies' is astounding. Many are employed by the airlines.
My luggage tag has my PO Box. My suitcase is covered in stickers. Including a big ole razorback hog. (Whooo Pig, Sooie). I use a hardcase with TSA clasps. I put duct tape over the clasps just to see if they get tampered with. Yup, sometimes they do. Even in hotel rooms.
I use a luggage tag on my outgoing trip that has my destination on it. Then I flip it over on my outbound leg that has my housebound best friend's address on it.
I just put my email address. I want the airline to be able to reach me at my destination, should it get delayed along the way.
Well, that's an interesting result with the duct tape. Good to know!
After 40 years of travel, I just never check anything, that I’m not willing to never see again.
Same here, but some airlines, at least in Europe and South America try to force you to check in your hand luggage when the flight is fully booked. They " voluntell" you to do it. It pisses me off!
Old used luggage, old clothes, uh oh , all gone, 😮😢ok bye!
Same. Even if its a favourite pair of shoe or a nice jacket…i will not check it in
This
Some time ago I found out that my luggage is never heavier than 12 kg. So, I bought me a... 5 kg heavy Nanuk case, and 'm still within weight limits. I don't use padlocks (if TSA needs, they'd cut them off), so instead I use thin paracord to tie the lock holes. TSA can afford some time to cut these off if they need to check my luggage, and when they open it they'd find a few zip-ties with a polite instruction to reseal the case.
Common suitcases are flimsy, you can break their wheels, puncture them through, but this coffin is so durable it would survive a plane crash (and still have working wheels). And also you can sit on it!
As a teen I plastered my hard bag with florescent smiley face stickers so I could spot it easily.
Never have expensive looking luggage - a clapped out suitcase with a bit of thin rope holding it together keeps your luggage safe.
I always put a couple pieces of duct tape on my suitcase that are visible from every side. This makes your bag look older, you can use the tape in case you have damage while you are traveling, and it makes it visible from a distance in case someone grabs it. I also put an airtag inside the liner so I can monitor if my bag starts to leave the baggage area before I do.
I have a suitcase that my cat has used as a scratching post for years. It looks beaten up as hell, but it is definitely distinct!
My dad does this
excellent idea
I have a couple of beat-up suitcases that I use that are literally over 70 years old, and they look it. The latches don't work & I use an old belt to hold them closed. One has a wood frame with a ripped up naugahyde finish and the other is made of fake leather. Anyone that steals them will get nothing of value except for my own memories. 😀
@pat8988 awesome
I haven't been flying for 20 years, still watching this video with interest 😄
I honestly envy you. And I'm being serious.
Same
I travel since 1995 still want to watch all the tips for travels
That’s why people always rush off the plane to get their luggage, cause literally anyone can steal it. In Japan once you get your luggage you have to fill out a declaration form before you’re allowed into the public area of the airport. Though it doesn’t stop another person from stealing your luggage at least they can track down those who were on your flight
The chance that it gets stolen in Japan is low anyway.
My husband is a retired pilot of a major airline. Luggage tags. First off, they're at risk of being ripped off by baggage handlers or machinery accidentally. Second, nobody should be looking at it aside from lost luggage agents. The tags can be your last chance at retrieving lost luggage. Attach them to your zipper pull and when you close your bag, tuck the tag INSIDE your bag so it won't get caught on something AND your info won't be visible. But we're a quarter of the way through the 21st century. Use airtags.
When I used to fly a lot, there were many times when by the time I'd get down to the luggage area, like stopping to use the bathroom or get a soda, which only took a minute or two, they were done and had put away what was left into the office. Most of those times, especially when it was late at night, it took a ling time to get my luggage, and a couple of times I had to drive back to the airport the next day, that's ridiculous.
Some of those times I did not stop to use the bathroom on the way, and I was shocked at how quickly they were done with the luggage in the conveyer belt - it happened to others on my flight too, and we all walked quickly to get to the luggage area, it's not like people hang around, they want to get out and go, but fast wasn't fast enough. When they lock it in the office, it causes more of a chance of getting lost/ misplaced/ stolen, as it's moved around by more people.
A couple of times they gave us the wrong area to go to, and when we all got to the right place, no one was there, no luggage on the belt. This makes you winder if it was lost, stolen, or put aside by the staff, but no one was there to tell us. This happened at Tampa (TPA) and also at St Pete (PIE).
I mail my stuff now, and carry on everything else.
TSA stole a DJI camera out my check bag. Left me a nice bag inspection tag 😂
The black luggage omg yes! The one and only time I had a black one, I literally watched someone grab my bag and try to walk out with it. I thankfully ran fast and chased him down and got it back because I did have a specific keychain on it. Never used a black bag again, I use it purely for storage.
Who doesnt lock up a suitcase? Most people have nothing that valuable in their suitcase but still dont want it unlocked. I always lock up my bags.
Exactly! Just because I have a lock on my suitcase doesn't mean it has valuables in it.
@cherylkern3288 But it looks more valuable and thats teh key point
I lock my bag because I do not want anyone putting contraband in it.
@meiwunoviatt1526 ah, but if there’s no lock on it, it’s easier to defend yourself when somebody DOES put contraband in it
I don't lock mine, why bother if a thief can steal the whole thing?
a thief would not open your suitcase in the collection area and take something from it, a thief wil take the whole darn thing to a quiet area open it there an dump what he doesn't want
Don’t even put your address on your luggage tag. There’s no point, airlines will never send your lost luggage without contacting you first!! Just leave your name a phone #
Uh…did u listen to the part about the phone number?
I just use my husband’s cellphone number and have him call the creep and block the number. Definitely don’t provide an address and just provide a last name for identification.Good to take a picture of your luggage before your flight and if possible your airline tix to prove ownership.
My tag has my first name and last initial, and a QR code that gives a throwaway email address to contact me if it is lost and found. Beyond that I try to keep any actual valuables with me on my carry-on.
I also leave my email address, and the paper tag I use folds over so no one can "accidentally" see it.
@bettyyoung868 What did I miss? How does your call the creep?
4:18 that's more than 1 burglary a day for over 50 years, every single day. How is that even possible.
This happened to me right before the pandemic! At Philly international airport the baggage claim was very crowded around the carousel. My dark gray bag had three different colored tags on it and when I saw it appear, I was halfway around the carousel. A young woman picked it up, put it on the ground, raised the handle and started walking away with it. I was stunned that she didn't even check the tag. I quickly ran up and stopped right in front of her and said to her I think that's my bag while reaching for the tag......yes it was mine! All she said was "Ohhh", turned and walked back to the carousel. I turned and walked out to my waiting ride and realized then that she was probably stealing bags!
I always lock my bags because when the airline personnel are tossing my luggage around, it won’t come flying open, spilling out all of my items. I do use a luggage tag that has a flap covering my personal details. But, from now on, I will turn the information side of the tag’s card, over. I have a black bag, so do use brightly coloured and strong Christmas gift ribbon to make the luggage stand out. As I cannot just buy new luggage, minus zippers, I may invest in an attractive luggage cover. You included many great tips, and thank you for that. 😊
The baggage claim area should be inside the secure zone! Why do they allow anyone off the street to even enter that area?
In most countries they don’t. It’s only America 🙄
@C.E.A.B.Australia domestic luggage area is public
The moral of this story is "don't take anything when you travel". When you get where you're going, just go to Walmart and buy a week's worth of clothes. It'll cost you less than a suitcase. 🤣
Friends who go to Cuba buy cheap clothes and leave them behind afterwards for the hotel staff who appreciate this very much.
No, the moral of the story is to survive with one carry-on bag and a personal item, like a small backpack.
Order and send clothes and toiletries ahead to your hotel. I even send snack and other comfort items.
Yes the cost of checked luggage is now exorbitant (Jet2 want £40 each way for a case) Given that you can carry on board a 10kg cabin bag plus personal item I don’t see the need for a suitcase particularly if you’re going to a hot weather destination and only need shorts and tee shirts (more problematic on a skiing holiday).
No the moral of the story is: use common sense.
on my last international trip, I did see an identical piece of luggage to mine on the carousel; same make, same color (black). but fortunately I had made my bag stand out with stripes of yellow duct tape, and a bright green strap, along with an orange ID tag (w cover) like you showed in the video. if it had not been for these additions, we could’ve easily mistaken one bag for the other or a thief could’ve easily runoff with it being generic black with no unusual markings. i’m surprised the other bag owner did not make his luggage distinct in anyway since it was a popular hard shell make and common black model. thanks for the tips.
There was a guy at Bangkok taking suitcases of the arrivals carousel for over 10 years. I have said for years all the security it takes to put a case on a plane when you arrive any one can take it and walk out. I think all bags should be checked that the right person is taking them mine got taken in Turkey never seen it again.
5:54 late to this but travel quite a bit and just want to add that I only put my cell, email and just the first initial of my name so no one knows my gender. email also doesn't give it away either. my luggage is also unique but gender neutral. Just an idea for any other ladies out there.
Then there are Hotel employee THIEVES after you buy new/replacement items.
The biggest risk with luggage at the airports are the airport and airline staff who have access to your luggage when it leaves your sight.
👏🏾 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
A few years ago, I band I knew were on tour and flew with Qantas. One of the band members was sitting at a window seat, and saw the baggage crew throwing their instruments around. The guy filmed it and the baggage crew got into trouble
I rarely check luggage and even when I do, I don't check valuables.
I gave a friend a suitcase as a present. An old, beaten-up one. This mindful gift was very well appreciated. After additional "beautification" with ugly stickers it was practically safe from theft.
Yes ! Agree😊
As a flight attendant for over 10 years... I COMPLETELY approve of this message!!!! YUP!!!!! Great video guys!
Yay! Thank you for the stamp of approval! 🎉
@ProjectUntetheredbefore the first minute how did the thief get in the airport to steal the suitcases? Unless he travelled to the same airport.😃
Finger nail clippers are not allowed to take with you in your hand luggage. They seem as a weapon.
@allboutthemojothanks for sharing.In Europe you can't get in from the outside.
@jensrasmussen6814A normal nail clipper is permitted if it’s under 6 cm
Another thing to consider, the TSA locks can be "reset", there is a reset button you can push with a pin and then reconfigure the combination.
My mum made a last minute decision to put her jewellery into her small suitcase just before going through the security check so her suitcase, handbag etc was scanned.
She usually keeps all her jewellery in her handbag, so in her possession at all times.
As she was flying local and the airline allowed small suitcases on board (Ryanair) she didn't think anything of it.
As she had passed through all the checkpoints and was waiting at the gate to board a female member of staff passed through the boarding area asking people if they would like to 'check your bag into the hold for free'. She agreed, forgetting that she had put her jewellery in the suitcase.
On arrival the suitcase was 'lost'. How? How did they loose her suitcase between the departure gate and the hold? The plane was parked and in full view of the waiting passengers.
This was obviously a scam being run by airport staff. Once the jewellery was recognised during the x-ray she was a target. I absolutely despise these scumbags who prey on the elderly.
That’s horrible. I’m so sorry
pretty sure they stole it =(
Ryanair employ zero hours contract staff who have zero loyalty. Cheap is cheap.
Ryanair's chief executive Michael O'Leary said the bereaved are our best customers. They have to fly last minute when prices are highest. That will tell you everything about him and his disgusting airline.
@pastamakesyourunfaster Norwegian also - not real airline employees. Of course those at TSA (or equivalent) are TSA. Unlike elsewhere though, TSA employees are often low class and some enjoy victimizing the public for any perceived slight or anything else if they can. Yes, I have personal stories.
I've always had a suitcase that looks like it's fresh out of a dumpster. It rolls just fine. But does not scream valuable.
The luggage tag address scam won't work with me, because my friends live at that address full time! 😂😂😂 I only pick up my mail from there!
I was literally watching this guys video waiting for my luggage when someone walked out with my bags!
I don't understand why luggage corrals are outside of the secured parts of airports that are only for people with plane tickets and staff. One has to go through scanning, screanings, pat downs, and metal detectors to get into an airport, but the airport just tosses your bags on an open carousel right next to the doors and never have any security nearby.
Everything I do. I usually carry on, but i keep zip ties in my suitcase incase I have to check it. I have covered tags, air tags, and an off color suitcase. I also never put anything valuable in my checked bag.
The best possible way to keep your baggage safe. Buy used baggage and make it look ghetto. Old duct tape. Scratched up and worn looking. The solution is simple. Don’t put high values in check in . iPhone AirTags secretly planted in case
Yes, but don't try TOO hard.
@julias.4980 Why not?
Haha the “love you” at the end is great. All the RUclips I’ve watched and I’ve never heard that as a tagline.
This is why I often ship luggage
When I left the airports involved in my last trip, there was someone asking for ID for every piece carried out. This was in Boston, NYC and several airports in Texas and California, also Phoenix. When you check a bag, they give you paperwork which has to be shown to that checker at the door.
They do this in mexico too
When I was travelling for work, I thought a bright red suitcase (off brand, not fancy or expensive) would be unique enough, until I saw several on every flight. Then I found some large, white luggage tags (the kind you have to unhook and open to see the name and address/phone inside) and I covered them with some fruit and flower stickers. Not many business men are travelling with daisies and strawberries on their luggage tags. Add some pink and lime green pompoms and you're set. I also scattered some business cards inside the luggage in case the bags got lost. Work address and work phone only. Inside the case I also used 1 gallon ziplock bags for dirty underwear or socks. No point in putting TSA agents through rifling through my stinky crew socks.
I used a stencil and white acrylic paint to monogram my dark gray suitcases. Took 10 minutes total! Added a bright bandana too.
Smart 😊😊🎉❤
Another thing is to wrap your luggage in a towel inside the suitcase which keeps it all together but also makes it too hard for any thief to grab anything even if they do open your bag with a pen.
Wrap your luggage inside a towel inside your suitcase? Makes no sense.
@comtnhigh why? It's if thieves open your suitcase then they can't just slip their hands in and pull something out cos the towel has wrapped the stuff. So they then have to open the suitcase completly and have to unravel the towel to get at stuff and quite frankly it will take too long and they will abandon the idea. Also if you put a towel along your clothes you keep everything nice in your suitcase and not moving about. You put the suitcase straps over the towel.
@carolinewick9496 a sarobg is lighter and works as well.
Baggage claim is outside of the secure areas of nearly every airport I’ve ever been to. Baggage claim is not accessible to only passengers.
Luggage tags get ripped off by the conveyers all the time. Completely pointless and a waste of money.
Put a contact number in a hidden spot INSIDE the luggage in the event your luggage goes on a detour.
Spray paint your plain black bag with an initial.
I do both. A bright luggage tag (which didn't get lost, yet), which helps in identifying it (one suitcase is plain black), and a sheet with my name and picture and a telephone number inside.
In such case , never leave your luggage unattended.
Unattended luggage with a tag , at least the staff can contact you ( put your dad or uncle number in there )
But one should no leave the tag sticking out. Taping it on or tucking it in is the best.
Some parts around the handle used to have hard plastic , just put a sticker on and cover with transport tape
Yes !!
Most quality luggage these days have a permanently mounted outside pocket for a business card sized ID tag. If yours does not, a brightly colored ID tag pocket sewn or glued to the bag will set your bag apart from others.
I wrap a big, brightly patterned sock around the handle of the suitcase. Even though it is clean the psychological effect of handling someone else's sock is surprisingly effective.
I never thought that the info on your luggage tags could be used to burgle your home. Luckily I only put my post code/zip code and mobile number on mine. People should also NOT use posh designer suitcases. Acquaintance of mine did this some years back. It attracted the attention of someone who worked in baggage handling and her designer dresses inside her designer suitcase went missing. Thousands of £ of clothes just gone! Never dress to impress at an airport or you might be targeted by thieves. Brilliant info about the discrete locks too. Thanks
There was a time when people actually DRESSED UP for Air Travel. It was a higher class luxury and you didn't see undergarments or cleavage (top or bottom) hanging out.
Of course, that was when they still allowed smoking on planes and seats were cloth and retained all sorts of odors and muck. Then came the irony of a Non-Smoking Section in an enclosed capsule. Now you aren't even allowed to use chewing tobacco on flights. Maybe it wasted too many of the barf bags?
@julias.4980 totally irrelevant
Yes, there can also be theiving rings among airport baggage handlers, a whole different issue.
@emjayay At airports, it's best to mingle in and not stand out. Don't wear posh clothes, don't use designer baggage, watch your belongings like a hawk and make sure you watch your hand-carried bags when going thru security
I lock my bag because I don’t want it to unzip somewhere in transit not because I think it’s gonna stop theft..
Zip ties, twist ties, a simple key ring, or a paper clip will also do the job and TSA won't have to break your lock. If it's the lock on the luggage not the zippers it's ruined then.
The baggage guys stole my Xmas presents going home last year. Got home and aftershave and new clothes for family that was in plastic wrap was taken, Old stuff remained. So a lock would have helped in this situation 🙈
I bought a purple zebra striped luggage set nearly a decade ago and it has served me very well. It is super easy to spot on any carousel.
I have bought a suitcase that - sadly - is quite common with business travellers. There can be 3 of it on the conveyor.
Some colorful zipties around the handles later, no more mix ups.
Buy a luggage strap around the middle
Which was why I intentionally chose the ugliest shade of teal green for my luggage.
You can see it from the end of the airport.
3:15 Pack a thin enough clipper in your personal items…errr, airport security wouldn’t like you carrying sharp items in your personal items.
Locking your bag isn’t only to keep things in but also to keep things out. Leaving your bags unlocked makes you an easy target for smugglers who can get you into serious trouble.
My thoughts exactly! And if you still have those old luggages with outside pockets, secure/lock them too.
I have some old 1970's aluminium hard shell luggage. It doesn't carry very much, but has meshing solid aluminium closures, not zippers. Think I'll be using that for my checked luggage.
Great tips! My wife and I are avid travelers, having been to more than 83 countries and territories. We’ve learned and applied most of what you mentioned, but always eager to learn a few more tips.
The tip from this one was turning your address labels over in the luggage tag. I went to check mine and sure enough, on one tag, the address was exposed. Simply turned it over and voila, a bit more secure. The other was in a covered sleeve, and it needed to be “refreshed”. So got that done too.
We do use zip ties (and fingernail clippers), have “unique” suitcases and colorful identifiers (ribbons, tags), and my wife gets out to the luggage carousel pretty quickly. Since we usually sit near the front of the aircraft, we tend to get off sooner as well.
Thanks again for a great video.
Just put a contact ph number on the label, never your address
My flowered suitcase was ruined by the airline. My replacement is a bright yellow with a vividly colored cover! Easy on, easy off and quite affordable.
Well, if they’ve already stolen your bag, they can just cut it open with a box cutter. There needs to be security around the carousels and there needs to be a check of baggage serial numbers with their corresponding tags with the passenger.
While I agree with you, there should be agents at the exits here’s a quick look at it from the airline’s view. There are going to be lost/stolen baggage with or without security so they need to deal with it. Airlines are legally required to comp for lost luggage. Placing a guard at each and every exit after baggage will require an ARMY of agents plus their management, training, uniforms, background checks, insurance, etc. For a big metropolitan airport that would be maybe 4 people per exit per 24 hours. Add 50% to cover weekends, holidays, sick days, vacations - 6 people per day per exit. Compensation for a few lost bags is cheaper. I don’t know what the legal comp rate is, maybe $250?? (it used to be $ per pound) Less than the cost of guarding your bag. Not saying it’s right, just that it is.
Security kept breaking off our TSA locks so we stopped using them.
I have a white suitcase! Very noticeable ❤ And. I use Smart Tags so I always know where my luggage is!
I used to use the TSA lock on my luggage and would constantly get notes from TSA saying my luggage was randomly selected for a check. Nothing was taken though because I don’t put nice stuff in my checked bag. The moment I stopped locking my luggage is the moment I stopped getting randomly selected.
When I was traveling constantly, mostly international, for work I used a silver Zero Halliburton suitcase. Yes, it was heavy but I wasn't paying for any possible overweight, and it seldom was. I never used a luggage tag. I had my name and phone numbers printed on white card stock and then laminated them to the sides of the bag. Finally, I bought duct tape and reflective tape in many colors and made patterns on the side of my bag. I could spot my bag on a luggage carousel from 50 yards away. An added benefit of the Halliburton was that it sealed with an O-ring so if the bag got wet the contents stayed dry. Finally, I installed stainless steel hasps, one on the top and one on the side, and used actual small padlocks.
In all the years I was traveling on six continents I never had a bag lost or stolen, but had to replace the first one. A UA baggage crew drove a fork lift blade completely through a baggage bin and through the side of my bag.
Gee thanks so much for helping thieves get into luggage. The airlines need to be held responsible and make certain they have the proper level of security.
Good logic, clear messages, bravo.
As a frequent non-business traveller, I pack the same for two days as for two weeks+. Also two rules I swear by:
1. I never check luggage. Two carry-ons are plenty for me.
2. I don't pack anything I cannot afford to lose in a checked bag.
cheers.
I have always attached a unique item (usually a crocheted flower) to the handle of my luggage for my own ease of identification. It astonishes me that more people don't do this -- a bandana, keychain plushie, something at least.
I have never locked my suitcase. I put my partial address in the lining. That's my initials and post code. I have always viewed travel like a festival - don't take anything you aren't prepared to lose. The valuable items are always on my person. If you want to put contraband into my case - well that's just hilarious. The real cartel/professional criminals aren't making money that way. 😂
I have a luggage cover thats super annoying to get on and off in a timely manner with no real way to conveniently pick up and carry my bag while the cover is on. its unwieldy and slow, which is the point. Also, it keeps my bag clean and free of scuffs on the conveyor belts
Why would u put home address on luggage? It’s not necessary for any reason.,
Just put your email address (the one you keep for "public" purposes rather than your private one) and anyone who wants to reach you can do it that way.
@lisalu910I just put cell number
For an honest person to return it to you.
Yes !! Phone # r enough info !!😊🎉
I always used to just use twist ties to hold my zippers closed. Nothing valuable inside those cheap suitcases.
Thanks for your useful advice. I really enjoyed watching your video.
My luggage, when I do check it in, is full of dirty laundry, worthless trinkets, and pointless junk. Stuff thats not worth shipping home.
years ago at major airports, security checked all luggage tags when you left the baggage area.
Yes, They had security at my airport doing that..!! ✈️
From a reasonable standpoint that should be the norm. They do everything(?) to ensure your luggage gets safe around the world and then they put it just somewhere where everybody just can take it without any control.
At DIA, anyone can walk off with any bag.
The luggage collection area is less than 100' from the exit.
No one is checking anything.
@sergiopinto6356 In the States yes. In Europe, no.
It’s mostly just second hand clothes and toiletries!!!!’ Why on earth would thieves bother with that? Anything valuable is carried hand luggage.
Unless it's a firearm
I always put my work address or my male cousins address on my luggage tag.
Glad you mentioned suitcase covers, I bought a couple of Amazon so I could easily see my bag, they are hard to get on and off but so worth it, my kids thought they were silly but I’ll show them this video